What is the OPT in USA?

To be eligible for OPT students must be enrolled full-time in a U.S. university for at least one academic year and have valid F-1 student status.

In general, students can apply for up to a year of OPT. Students in STEM disciplines, on the other hand, may be eligible for an extra 24 months of OPT extension .

Students must apply to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for OPT. They must acquire an OPT recommendation from their DSO.

OPT can be utilized before or after finishing a program of study. Students can apply up to 90 days before the end of their academic program.

Students can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) or part-time. The job must be closely connected to the student's topic of study.

Students on OPT are required to notify their DSO of any changes in job status, address, or other pertinent information within given timeframe.

Eligible STEM students can petition for an extra 24 months of OPT after the first 12 months. It allows students to enhance their practical skills.