F1 OPT
Optional Practical Training lets you put your degree to work in the real world after you finish your studies.
What you should know about F1 OPT
OPT gives F1 students up to 12 months of work in their field of study. You can use it after you graduate, and for many students it is the first step into a full career in the United States.
If you finish a degree on the STEM list, you may add another 24 months on top, for a total of three years. The timing and the forms matter a lot here, so it helps to have someone who has done this many times before.
The key points, in short
- Up to 12 months of work in your field after graduation
- Extra 24 months for STEM degree holders
- Work with almost any employer in your field
- A strong bridge toward H-1B or a green card
- Apply up to 90 days before you finish
We handle the hard parts with you
Timing your application
We help you file inside the right window so you do not lose any of your work time.
I-765 and evidence
We prepare your work permit application and check every form before it goes in.
STEM extension
We confirm if your degree qualifies and help you and your employer meet the extra rules.
Next steps planning
We map how OPT can lead to H-1B, EB-2 NIW, or another long term path.
Common questions about F1 OPT
Standard OPT gives you up to 12 months of work. If your degree is on the STEM list, you can add 24 more months for a total of 36.
Not sure where to start? Let us help.
Your first guidance is completely free. Book a quick call and we will tell you honestly what your best options are.
Or call us at +1 (510) 876-0888