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
Understanding the H-1B Visa Cap-Gap Extension and STEM OPT
New 2026 H-1B rules introduce a wage-based lottery, expanded cap-gap protection for students, and the end of most automatic EAD extensions for visa holders.
Understanding OPT Employment: Eligibility Rules and Types of Work permitted under OPT
Under OPT, there are several types of work that are permitted, subject to certain eligibility rules. It is…
Understanding OPT Eligibility and Requirements for F-1 Visa Holders
To be eligible for OPT (Optional Practical Training) in the U.S., individuals must meet certain criteria. These include…
Length of Stay on STEM OPT: Post-Graduation Work Visa and OPT Extension Explained
The duration of stay in the U.S. on STEM OPT after completing studies is typically 24 months. However,…
Student Visa Interview Tips: F1 Visa Port of Entry Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
Are you wondering what questions you might be asked during your F1 visa initial port of entry interview?…
Immigration Challenges: Can F1 on STEM OPT Obtain EB2 Green Card? Steps to Take, Possible Issues
An F1 student on STEM OPT may be eligible for an EB2 Green Card, but there are challenges…
F1 OPT visa to EB3 Visa Conversion: Chances, Steps, and Eligibility Criteria
Wondering about the possibility of converting from an F1 OPT visa to EB3? This article explores the chances…
F1 to H1B Visa: Immigration Travel Concerns & Re-Entry Process After Long Absence
If you have transitioned from an F1 to an H1B visa and haven't traveled back to India in…
New USCIS Policy Updates for International Student Visa Regulations
USCIS has released policy guidance for F and M student nonimmigrant classifications, addressing various topics such as eligibility…
Tax Forms for F1 OPT Post-Completion OPT Taxes as a 1099 Contractor
If you're working as a 1099 contractor on F1 post-completion OPT, you may need to fill out certain…