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

ISSS offers off campus workshops covering OPT throughout the fall and spring semesters.  You are required to attend an off-campus employment workshop in the year in which you will be applying for work authorization.  Regular notices about upcoming workshops will be sent to your fit email account.

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 $380.  Please email isss@fit.edu to schedule an appointment with an advisor.