OPT stands for Optional Practical Training, a program that allows international students in the United States to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. OPT is authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is available for eligible students who have completed their degree programs or are in the process of completing them.
The OPT program enables eligible international students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after completing their degree program. Students in certain STEM fields may be eligible for a 24-month extension, which allows them to work for a total of 36 months in the U.S.
To be eligible for OPT, students must be enrolled in a degree program at a U.S. college or university, and they must have maintained lawful F-1 student status for at least one academic year. Additionally, students must apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS before beginning their OPT employment.
OPT provides valuable work experience and allows international students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings. This experience can be a valuable asset when seeking employment after returning to their home countries or when applying for jobs in the U.S.