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What is OPT?

A comprehensive overview of Optional Practical Training for F-1 students, including eligibility, types, time limits, and the EAD requirement.

8 min read

What Optional Practical Training Means

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a form of temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 students to gain practical work experience directly related to their major area of study. OPT is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and authorized by the Department of Homeland Security.

Unlike Curricular Practical Training (CPT), OPT does not need to be part of your curriculum. It is "optional" in the sense that it is not a degree requirement, but it still must be directly related to your field of study.

Source: 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10) — Practical training regulations for F-1 students

Who Is Eligible for OPT

To qualify for OPT you must hold valid F-1 status and have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year at a SEVP-certified institution. Students who have used 12 or more months of full-time Curricular Practical Training at the same degree level are ineligible.

  • You must be in valid F-1 status at the time of application.
  • You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year (exceptions exist for certain graduate programs).
  • You must not have already used 12 months of OPT at the same education level.
  • Full-time CPT totaling 12 months or more at the same degree level disqualifies you from OPT.

OPT eligibility resets when you complete a higher degree level. If you used OPT after your bachelor's degree, you can apply for a new 12-month period after completing a master's or doctoral program.

Types of OPT

There are two main categories of standard OPT, plus a STEM extension for qualifying students.

  1. Pre-completion OPT: Work authorization while you are still enrolled in your academic program. You may work part-time (20 hours or fewer per week) during the academic year, or full-time during official school breaks.
  2. Post-completion OPT: Work authorization after you finish your degree. You may work full-time for up to 12 months. This is the most common form of OPT.
  3. STEM OPT Extension: An additional 24-month extension available to students with qualifying STEM degrees who are employed by E-Verify employers.

Most students choose post-completion OPT to work full-time after graduation. Pre-completion OPT is less common because any time used reduces your post-completion OPT allowance.

The 12-Month Limit and Unemployment Clock

Each degree level entitles you to a maximum of 12 months of OPT. Time spent on pre-completion OPT is deducted from this total: part-time pre-completion OPT is deducted at half the rate (one month of part-time work equals half a month), while full-time pre-completion OPT is deducted day for day.

During post-completion OPT you are subject to a 90-day cumulative unemployment limit. If you are unemployed for more than 90 days total, your OPT and F-1 status may be automatically terminated. STEM OPT extension holders receive an additional 60 days, for a total of 150 days.

USCIS tracks unemployment through SEVP Portal reporting. You must update your employer information in the SEVP Portal within 10 days of any change in employment status.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

To work on OPT you must receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) from USCIS. You apply by filing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with the appropriate fee. You may not begin working until you have the physical EAD card in hand and your OPT start date has passed.

Source: 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3) — Employment authorization for F-1 students engaged in OPT

USCIS processing times for EAD cards can vary significantly. Apply as early as possible within your filing window to avoid gaps in work authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work for any employer on OPT?
Yes, as long as the work is directly related to your major area of study. Unlike H-1B, OPT is not tied to a specific employer. You may work for multiple employers, work part-time, freelance, or start your own business, provided the work relates to your field.
Does OPT eligibility reset if I change degree levels?
Yes. OPT eligibility is granted per degree level. If you complete a bachelor's degree and use 12 months of OPT, you become eligible for a new 12-month OPT period upon completing a master's degree, and again after a doctoral degree.
What happens if my EAD card arrives after my requested OPT start date?
You may not begin working until you have both your EAD card in hand and your OPT start date has passed, whichever is later. Days between your OPT start date and when you begin working do count toward your 90-day unemployment limit.
Can I travel internationally while on OPT?
You can travel during OPT, but you need a valid passport, a valid EAD card, a valid F-1 visa stamp (or automatic revalidation eligibility), a job offer letter or proof of employment, and a signed I-20 with a travel endorsement from your DSO within the past six months.

References

  1. 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10): Practical training regulations for F-1 students
  2. 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3): Employment authorization for F-1 students engaged in OPT

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