Frequently Asked Question

Eligibility: To qualify for OPT, students must meet the following requirements:

• Be in valid F-1 status and have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year (except for certain exceptions, such as students in qualifying STEM degree programs).
• Intend to work in a job directly related to their major field of study.
• Not have used more than 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the same academic level.

Application Timeline: Students can apply for OPT up to 90 days before completing their academic program and up to 60 days after completing their program. The OPT application must be received by USCIS before the student's program end date, and USCIS must approve the application before the student can begin working on OPT.

For more detailed information about the OPT application process, requirements, and updates, visit the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) website.