What isOPT?
F-1 students who plan to work in the U.S. can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), a temporary employment authorization that provides an opportunity to apply knowledge gained in the classroom to a practical work experienceoff-campus.
- OPT is a benefit of your F-1 visa status and not a separate work visa or visacategory.
- You continue to be in F-1 student visa status while you are on OPT and must abide by all F-1 regulations during your period ofOPT.
- Yale remains your visa sponsor. This is the last work authorization that will not need employer sponsorship until you have a GreenCard.
TimingConsiderations
- Most students are eligible to apply for a total of 12 months of OPT at each higher degreelevel.
- OPT can only be used once per higher degree level even if you have multiple degrees per level (e.g. OPT based on a Bachelor's degree and then OPT based on a Master's degree orPhD).
- The 12 months of OPT must be used all at once, it cannot be brokenup.
- OPT must be used directly after graduation; it cannot be saved forlater.
- You cannot start work until you have received your EAD card and reached the start date on thecard.
Eligibility
To be eligible for OPT, youmust:
- Maintain valid F-1 student status at the time ofapplication
- Be enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year in theU.S.
- Be physically present in the U.S. when you submit yourapplication
- Intend to work or volunteer in a professional development opportunity directly related to the major field ofstudy
AdditionalConsiderations
- You do not need to have a job in order to apply forOPT.
- All work must directly relate to your field ofstudy.
- Students with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) may be eligible for a 24-month extension to their 12 month post-completionOPT.
- You do not need paid employment (volunteering isok).
- You can work on multiple opportunities at onetime.
