F-1 Post-Completion Optional Practical Training

F-1 students may apply to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (Post-OPT) work authorization, which helps them apply their classroom learning to the real-world.

Applying for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training
Reporting Post-Completion Optional Practical Training

F-1 STEM EXTENSIONS FOR POST-COMPLETION OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING

F-1 students who receive Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) degrees and meet certain requirements are eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Not sure if you’re eligible for STEM OPT? Review the Applying for STEM OPT page and check the STEM-eligible CIP code list. If you have additional questions please contact OGS.

24-Month STEM OPT Extension
Reporting STEM OPT Extension

F-1 Cap Gap Extensions

If you are eligible to switch your F-1 student status to an H-1B temporary employment status after completing a program of study or Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), click below to learn about Cap Gap Extension.

Cap Gap Extension

J-1 Academic Training (AT)

Eligible J-1 students may apply for Academic Training (AT), a type of employment authorization granted J-1 Students to complement their programs of study in the U.S.

J-1 Academic Training