Optional practical training (OPT) is temporary employment (paid or unpaid) directly related to an F-1 student’s major study area. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). However, all periods of pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the available period of post-completion OPT.

STEM OPT Extension If you have earned a degree in certain science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, you may apply for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT employment authorization if you:

• Are an F-1 student who received a STEM degree included on the STEM Designated Degree Program List (PDF);
• Are employed by an employer who is enrolled in and is using E-Verify; and
• Received an initial post-completion OPT employment authorization grant based on your STEM degree.