Optional Practical Training is temporary work authorization for F-1 students in a job directly related to their major, either during study or after completing a degree.

How long does OPT last?

Post-completion OPT is generally up to a set period per degree level, with a possible extension for eligible STEM degrees. Check current rules.

Within the window set by the rules, usually starting some months before graduation and ending within a set time after. Ask your school's international office.

What is the unemployment limit?

There is a limit on days you may be unemployed during OPT. Check the current rules, and report employment as required.

Do I need an employer to apply?

Not for standard post-completion OPT, but you must find work in your field within the limits. For the STEM extension, employer requirements apply.

OPT and STEM OPT Explained: Eligibility, Applying and Rules

For many international students in the United States, Optional Practical Training is the main way to gain work experience in their field and, for some, an important step toward a longer career in the country. It is also an area where rules are detailed, deadlines are strict and mistakes can be costly. Understanding the basics helps you plan, and ask the right questions at the right time.

Immigration rules change, and details depend on your individual situation. This guide gives a general overview without figures or dates. Always consult your school's designated school official and the official government sites. It is general information, not legal advice.

What OPT is

OPT is a benefit available to students on F-1 status. It permits temporary employment that is directly related to your major, as part of or after your program. Key features:

It is tied to your field of study. The work must be directly related to your major.
It requires authorization. You cannot start working until you hold the proper work authorization document and the start date has been reached.
It is limited in time. You have a set period for each degree level.
It is not a separate visa. You remain in F-1 status while on OPT, with additional conditions.

OPT is different from CPT, which is training that is part of your curriculum and authorized by your school.

Types of OPT

Pre-completion OPT. Work during your studies, usually part-time while classes are in session and full-time during breaks. Time used reduces the time available after graduation.
Post-completion OPT. Work after you complete your program, for a set period, which is the most common type.
STEM OPT extension. An additional period for eligible degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with extra requirements.

Check which type you plan to use, and how it affects your total time.

Eligibility in general

Typical requirements include:

You hold valid F-1 status.
You have been enrolled full time for a set period, usually at least one academic year.
The work is related to your major.
You apply within the permitted window.
You have not used your allowance at the same level previously, subject to the rules for higher degrees.

Check with your school about your own eligibility, since details matter.

The role of your school

Your designated school official plays a key part.

You request a recommendation for OPT from your school.
The school updates your record in the student tracking system, and issues a document with the recommendation.
You file an application with the immigration agency, including the school's recommendation.
You receive an employment authorization document (EAD) if approved.
You report to your school after starting work, and update information as required.

Do not skip steps. Your school is your first source of advice.

When to apply

Timing is crucial.

There is a window during which you may apply, which starts a number of months before your program end date and ends within a set time after.
Processing times vary, and can be long. Apply as early as allowed.
You choose a start date within the allowed range, and you cannot start work before the start date on the card.
You must have the card in hand before you work.
Missing the window can mean losing the benefit.

Mark the dates in your calendar, and discuss with your school well in advance.

The application

The process usually involves:

Meet with your school and request OPT.
Receive the school's recommendation.
Complete the application form, with fees, photographs and copies of documents.
File it with the immigration agency within the window.
Keep proof of filing.
Wait for a decision, and respond to any requests.
Receive the EAD, and check it for errors.

Be careful with forms and fees, which change. Use official sources only.

During OPT

Work in your field. The job should be related to your degree.
Work at least a minimum number of hours per week, as the rules specify.
Report employment to your school and update contact and employer details within the required time.
Watch the unemployment limit. You may be unemployed for only a limited number of days in total. Keep records.
Keep your passport and I-20 valid.
Maintain F-1 status.
Do not work for an unrelated employer unless allowed.
Self-employment may be possible in some cases, with strict conditions.

If you lose your job, contact your school immediately to understand your options.

Unemployment time

The rules set a maximum number of days you can be unemployed during OPT.

Track your days carefully.
Report changes in employment status.
Volunteer work may count toward employment in some cases, if related to your field. Check with your school.
Exceeding the limit can lead to loss of status.

Plan your job search early, ideally before graduation.

STEM OPT extension

Some students with degrees in qualifying STEM fields may apply for an extension of OPT.

Eligibility depends on your degree, based on an official list of qualifying fields.
You must have an employer enrolled in the required verification program.
You and your employer must complete a training plan, setting out how the job relates to your studies.
The employer must meet requirements, such as pay and working conditions.
There are reporting requirements for you and your employer.
You must apply before your current OPT ends.
Unemployment limits may differ.

The STEM extension involves your employer, so talk to prospective employers early about whether they participate.

Travel while on OPT

Check your documents. To re-enter, you usually need your passport, a valid visa, your I-20 with a recent travel signature and your EAD, along with proof of employment or a job offer.
Travel before you have the EAD may risk abandoning your application, in some cases.
Check visa validity. You may need to renew your visa abroad.
Talk to your school before any international trip.

If you are unsure, do not travel until you have advice.

After OPT

When OPT ends, you must change status, leave the country or begin another program, within a short grace period. Options may include:

Starting a new program at a US school.
Changing to a work visa, which requires employer sponsorship and has its own rules, deadlines and limits.
Other routes, depending on your circumstances.
Returning home.

Plan long before your OPT ends, since some work visa processes have strict timing and annual limits.

Common mistakes

Applying too early or too late.
Starting work before the start date or before receiving the card.
Not reporting changes to the school.
Exceeding the unemployment limit.
Working in an unrelated field.
Traveling without proper documents.
Relying on friends' advice instead of the school.
Using unofficial services that charge high fees.

How to prepare

Meet your school's international office early, at least several months before graduation.
Learn your deadlines.
Start job searching early. Use career services and networking.
Understand your field's STEM status, if relevant.
Ask employers about sponsorship and extension participation.
Keep records of employment, hours and communications.
Budget for application fees and the period before you start working.
Keep a backup plan.

Our guide to work rights while studying explains other work options. Our guide to F-1 student visa explained covers status.

A worked example

Imagine a student in a master's program in engineering. Six months before graduation, she meets her international office, learns her application window and discusses her plans. She begins job searching and talks to employers about sponsorship and the STEM extension. She applies for OPT as early as allowed, and receives her card before her chosen start date. She starts working, reports her employer to the school and keeps track of her days. Later, her employer enrolls in the verification program, and she applies for the extension before her first period ends.

Her planning and communication kept her in status.

A quick checklist

Do I know my application window and deadlines?
Have I met my school's international office?
Do I understand the unemployment limit and reporting rules?
Do I know whether my degree qualifies for the STEM extension?
Do I have a plan for after OPT?

Final thoughts

OPT can be a valuable step, but only if you follow the rules and timing closely. Talk to your school early, keep records and plan beyond OPT. Never rely on unofficial advice for decisions about your status.