OPT
Optional Practical Training rules for F-1 graduates — 12-month OPT, 24-month STEM extension, application timelines, employer requirements, unemployment limits, and cap-gap provisions.
Gosar Pushes Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act to End OPT Program
Representative Paul Gosar reintroduced the Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act to terminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Gosar argues OPT harms American workers by incentivizing businesses to hire cheaper…
How to Fill I-9 Work Authorization Date Without Your OPT EAD Yet
For F-1 visa holders on post-graduate OPT awaiting an EAD card, complete the I-9's "authorized to work until"…
OPT Fraud and Fake Employers Put International Students’ F-1 Status at Risk
U.S. authorities ramp up 2026 OPT fraud enforcement, using data matching and site visits to target fake employers,…
Saint Peter’s University Day 1 CPT Approval Revoked, Students Affected
On February 18, 2025, Saint Peter's University's Day 1 CPT programs for M.S. in Business Analytics and Data…
Trump’s Policies Spark New Fears for Student Visa Work Programs
Donald Trump's 2024 policies threaten U.S. student programs OPT and CPT, crucial for international work experience, citing "America…
Important Dates for F-1 Students on OPT in the U.S.
F-1 students on OPT must track key dates: apply 90 days before or within 60 days after program…
MAGA Targets Optional Practical Training Program for Foreign Students
MAGA hardliners target the OPT program for foreign students, criticizing it for displacing American graduates and acting as…
What Happens to Your 401k Funds After OPT Ends?
If your OPT expires and you return to your home country, you can keep your IRA/401k funds in…
What’s Next for Your IRA After OPT Ends?
After your OPT expires, you can keep your IRA/401k funds in the account or roll them into an…
Is Premium Processing Available for OPT?
Yes, you can use Premium Processing for OPT (Optional Practical Training) applications. It speeds up the approval process…