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  2. International Students

Optional Practical Training & STEM OPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a legal means by which F-1 students can obtain employment in areas related to their academic field of study for up to 12 months in the US. The objective of practical training is not financial but rather an opportunity to gain practical work experience related to your field of study. It can be done before or after completion of studies.

When To Apply

You are eligible to apply for OPT 90 days prior to completion of studies, and up to 60 days after your program completion date. You can start applying around mid-February for the Spring semester and the end of September for the Fall semester.

Eligibility

You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for at least a full academic year, (9 months) currently in F-1 status, have completed all requirements to receive a degree by the end of the semester, and have not used up more than twelve months of full-time curricular or optional practical training.

How To Apply

Students file for OPT online through form I-765.  In addition to completing the I-765 form, you need to have available the following:

  • Original color passport style photos (2)
  • Copy of new I-20 requesting OPT from the International Student Advisor
  • Copy of any previous SEVIS I-20s (from other schools, other status)
  • Copy of I-94 printout
  • Copy of the ID Pages of Passport
  • Credit or Debit card to pay the $470 filing fee

Before applying for OPT, please meet with the International Student Advisor and request the walkthrough instructional video.  Please check-in with your International Student Advisor BEFORE you submit your OPT application.

STEM OPT Extension

Former students engaged in standard Optional Practical Training (OPT) based on a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a qualified STEM field can apply to USCIS for a one-time (per degree level) 24-month extension. When and how to apply for the STEM OPT Extension varies slightly from that of the standard Post-Completion OPT.

Those interested in applying for the STEM OPT Extension must contact their International Student Advisor well before the end of their standard Post-Completion OPT authorization period (the expiration date listed on their OPT EAD Card), to allow for ample time for advising, and issuing the new 1-20 with the STEM OPT recommendation before filing your application online. The application for the STEM OPT Extension must be submitted and received by USCIS prior to the expiration date of the current OPT EAD Card.

The STEM OPT Extension may be issued for a prior STEM degree obtained by the student, as long as that student is in a current period of post-completion OPT. Students may apply for the STEM Extension once per degree level, two times, over the course of their career.

Study in the States offers free U.S. government resources that explain the rules and regulations governing the international student process in the United States. The following links are dedicated to answering STEM OPT-related questions.