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Optional Training for F-1 Students

International Student and Scholar Services | Optional Training for F-1 Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT) offers students in F-1 status opportunity to work temporarily at an off-campus location in a job that is directly related to their field of study.

Who is eligible?

Students in F-1 status who have been continuously enrolled as full-time students in the US for at least one academic year are eligible for optional practical training (OPT).

As of April 8, 2008, USCIS has updated its regulations pertaining to OPT that affect all international students. During the post-completion OPT, F-1 visa status is dependent upon employment.  Among these changes are the following:

  1. OPT filing changes ñ the new regulations allows F-1 students to file OPT applications up to 90 days prior to the completion date and up to 60 days after completion of the course of study.
  2. Periods of unemployment ñ this new regulation articulates that an F-1 student cannot be unemployed for an aggregate of more than 90 days during the period of the approved OPT. F-1 students who take advantage of the 17-month extension cannot be unemployed for an aggregate of more than 120 days. It is imperative that students notify ISSS of OPT approval by providing a copy of the EAD card.
  3. More detailed reporting ñ students will now be required to report, in addition to changes of name and residential address, the name and location of all employers, and any interruption in employment. Any changes must be reported within 10 days of the change. It is critical to notify ISSS when students receive jobs offer so that ISSS can update your employer information accordingly.

  4. Cap-gap relief ñ F-1 students on OPT whose employers have filed and have pending an H-1B petition which requests a change of status from F-1 to H1-B may remain legally in the U.S. and automatically extends their OPT work authorization until the start date requested on the H1-B petition.

  5. Types of employment allowed for Post Completion OPT
  •  Any paid-employment in the field of study either full time or part time. The work must be at least 20 hours per week.
    • Students may work for more than one employer.
    • Short Term multiple employers. Students must maintain a list of all multiple employers.
    • Work for Hire. This is also commonly referred to as 1099 employment where a student performs a service based on a contractual relationship.
    • Self-employed business owner. Student may start a business and be self-employed. In this case, student must work full time. Student must have a business licenses and the business must in the field of study.
    • Employment through agency. Student must provide evidence showing an average of at least 20 hours per week.
  • Unpaid employment. Students may work as a volunteer or unpaid interns, where this does not violate any labor laws. The work must be at least 20 hours per week for Post OPT students. Student must be able to provide evidence from the employer that the student worked at least 20 hours per week.