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.
Top questions about OPT
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat is the impact of USCIS policy changes on Indian students applying for OPT and H-1B visas?
Due to green card backlogs, especially for Indian nationals, the process from F-1 student visa to OPT to H-1B work visa can take many years.
Read: Indian Student Shares Raw Reality of Studying and Surviving in USHow can international students prepare for potential changes in educational policies while on OPT?
Students should consult with their DSO, seek legal advice, develop backup plans, build a strong network, and stay informed through official resources to navigate policy changes effectively.
Read: Managing OPT Employment Amidst Changes in Educational Policy: A Guide for International StudentsWhat are some steps international students should take to manage employment amidst OPT policy changes?
International students should consult university resources, seek legal advice, connect with peers, stay updated through USCIS and SEVP websites, and be proactive in informing their employers about potential changes.
Read: Navigating OPT Changes: Managing Employment Amidst Educational Policy ImpactsWhat risks do Fall 2025/2026 students face regarding OPT in the U.S.?
Fall 2025/2026 students may face risks such as changes to 'duration of status' for F-1 students, a reduced grace period after study, and potential delays or denials in obtaining post-completion OPT due to proposed stricter rules by DHS.
Read: Fall 2025/2026 Study Plan: Prepare for OPT Uncertainty with BackupsWhat should international students and employers do during this period of uncertainty regarding OPT and STEM OPT programs?
Students should ensure their job descriptions align with their degree and keep detailed records organized for possible requests from the Designated School Official (DSO), SEVP, or USCIS. Employers should maintain clear reporting workflows and retain evidence of supervision, projects, and evaluations to reduce compliance risk.
Read: U.S. Reviews Optional Practical Training and STEM OPT Under America First Policy
Managing Maternity and Paternity Leave during OPT: An Overview of OPT Leave Policies
Managing maternity or paternity leave while on OPT can be challenging, but it is important to understand OPT leave policies. Communicate with your employer in advance, explore options like unpaid…
I’m on OPT: Understanding Employee Rights and the Harassment Complaint Process for Workplace Discrimination
If you are on OPT and face workplace discrimination or harassment, it is important to know your employee…
Managing work project cancellation or delay during STEM OPT: What to do and OPT compliance
If you are on STEM OPT and your work project is canceled or significantly delayed, it is important…
OPT Status Change: How Does Employer Ownership Change Impact Immigration Status?
If you are on OPT and your employer undergoes a significant ownership change or structural adjustment, it can…
Navigating OPT Health Issues: Maintaining Visa Status and Work Authorization Hardship
If you are on OPT and encounter unplanned health problems that hinder your work, it is essential to…
Can I Take a Short-Term Educational Course While on OPT? Implications & Career Development
If you're considering taking a short-term educational course unrelated to your field of study while on OPT, it…
OPT Salary Standards Violation: Your Rights and What to Do
If your company is not meeting the OPT salary standards set by labor laws, it may be a…
Comparing and Choosing Job Offers on OPT: Strategies for Handling Multiple Offers with Different Start Dates in Your Field
When faced with multiple job offers on OPT, it is essential to employ effective strategies for comparing offers…
Navigating Remote Work on OPT in Extenuating Circumstances
If you are on OPT and need to transition to remote work due to extenuating circumstances, there are…
OPT Relocation: Important Considerations for Employer-Sponsored Visa Transfer and Compliance for Internal Transfers
If you're on OPT and your employer plans to transfer you to a different office in the U.S.,…