From RFEs to Form I-983 checks, OPT compliance now plays a bigger role in protecting F-1 status and future H-1B filings ...

What is the OPT STEM-Extension? The Optional Practical Training STEM Extension gives students an additional 24 months of OPT authorization if they have a U.S. degree in an approved science, technology ...

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a federal program 72% of international students use to remain in the U.S. after they graduate. American companies seeking highly educated talent can use OPT to ...

New U.S. policies on OPT and H-1B visas are influencing international student choices for 2026 amid evolving work rights.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Stuart Anderson writes about immigration, business and globalization. An upcoming Trump administration rule is expected to end or ...

The F-1 nonimmigrant visa status allows noncitizens to study in the United States at U.S. colleges and universities. F-1 students may be eligible for off-campus employment under the following programs ...

On July 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) added the category of Environmental/Natural Resource Economics (03.0204) as a qualifying field of study to the DHS STEM Designated ...

USCIS is increasing premium processing fees for F-1 students and graduates starting March 1, 2026. Forms I-539 and I-765, ...

While travel on OPT or STEM-Extension shares many requirements and regulations with typical F-1 undergraduate travel, there are some distinct requirements for individuals pursuing post-graduate ...

What is Optional Practical Training? Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment benefit that allows an F-1 student visa holder to remain in the US and gain additional training and ...

If you are currently a student or just graduated and are applying within your grace period, you cannot apply directly for the STEM OPT Extension: only those currently in their 12-month OPT ...

We collaborate with the world's leading lawyers to deliver news tailored for you. Sign Up for any (or all) of our 25+ Newsletters. Some states have laws and ethical rules regarding solicitation and ...