What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)? Optional practical training (OPT) is defined by federal regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the [F-1] student's major area of study." After completion of a course of study, most students…
Oftentimes, prospective students enter the U.S. on a B visitor visa to visit schools and decide they would like to stay in the U.S. to pursue a course of study. The inevitable question then arises: Should I change my status…
On May 10, 2016, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)’s newly published STEM OPT rule will take effect. The new rule extends the initial 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), available to all F-1 students, an additional 24-month period…
On October 19, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new proposed rule to extend an F-1 foreign student’s Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization for up to 24 months (beyond the initial 12 months) if the student…