Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

Definition:

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that gives F-1 students an opportunity to apply knowledge gained in the classroom to a practical work experience off campus.  Most students are eligible to apply for 12 months of OPT as associated with each new degree of a higher level.  Students who have received a degree in a government-designated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) program may qualify for an additional 17 month period if they have an E-Verify employer.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the initial 12 month OPT period, the student must:

  • be a full-time registered student for at least one full academic year
  • be physically present in the United States
  • be maintaining valid F-1 status at the time of application
  • intent to work in a position directly related to the major field of study - no offer of employment is needed at the time of application submission

Schedule an OPT Appointment at ISSS:

Apply early!  Immigration takes up to 90 days to process applications.  Currently, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) filing fee for these applications is $340.

ISSS offers off campus workshops covering OPT throughout the fall and spring semesters.  Regular notices about upcoming workshops will be sent to your fit email account.

Forms:

F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) Request Form (PDF)
F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) STEM Extension (PDF)

For more information, please visit ISSS (Monday–Friday, 8–5 p.m.)