OPT EAD

Studied in the U.S. and want to get practical work experience?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 visa students in the United States to work off-campus in a job directly related to your major. OPT allows you to gain hands-on work experience in the U.S. that is directly related to your major. For many students, it serves as a crucial opportunity to build a professional network, apply classroom theory to real-world jobs, and often acts as a pathway to long-term employment sponsorship (like the H-1B visa).

Types of OPT

Post-Completion OPT: The most common type. It begins after you finish your degree. You get up to 12 months of work authorization.
Pre-Completion OPT: Allows you to work before you graduate (e.g., during summer break or part-time during the semester). However, any time used here is deducted from your 12-month post-completion total.
STEM OPT Extension: If you have a degree in a designated Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math field, you can apply for an additional 24-month extension, giving you a total of 36 months.