International students in F-1 non-immigrant status are eligible for optional practical training (OPT) to work for a U.S. employer in a job directly related to the student’s major area of study.

To learn more about F-1 on OPT status, visit: 

• Understanding F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) Requirements 
• Study in the States: F-1 OPT

Common Uses

• International graduate students
• International post-doctoral students

Conditions

• Employment in OPT status is limited to 1 year, however, in some instances, a student may be eligible for a one-time extension of 24 months of OPT authorization (called STEM-OPT)
• F-2 spouses cannot work; however, they may engage in part-time study
• F-2 children cannot work; however, they may engage in full time study for grades K-12

Process

• Hiring department contacts Faculty Immigration Services
• Sufficient time is needed to change status from F-1 to H-1B before OPT work authorization expires.  The end date on the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is crucial.  The hiring department should contact Faculty Immigration Services at least 6 months before the EAD expires if they plan to continue employing the foreign national after the expiration.

Forms