Optional Practical Training

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is off-campus employment authorization for eligible F-1 students.

There are 2 major steps to apply for OPT:

1. Work with OIS to get OPT I-20.
   • Watch the required online “OPT Tutorials”:
     • OPT: General Information
     • OPT: Application Process
     • OPT: Maintaining Status
     • OPT: After OPT
   • Submit the online “OPT Request” in My OIS.
   • OIS reviews your request within about 5 to 7 business days.
   • OIS creates your new I-20 with the OPT recommendation.

2. Submit application to the federal government after you receive your OPT I-20.

STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (STEM OPT)

The STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) is 24 additional months of work authorization after OPT for students who complete a degree in a STEM-designated field. Students apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension while they are in a valid period of post-completion OPT.

There are 2 major steps to apply for STEM OPT:

1. Work with OIS to get STEM OPT I-20.
   • Watch the STEM OPT: Application Process tutorial about qualification requirements and the request process for STEM OPT.
   • Watch the STEM OPT: Maintaining Status tutorial to learn about the crucial reporting requirements during your STEM OPT period. 
   • Submit the online “STEM OPT Extension Request” in My OIS.
     • Note: OIS collects a $250 fee at the time of the STEM OPT request. The fee supports OIS staff in continuing to provide guidance and fulfill reporting requirements during a student’s STEM OPT period.
   • OIS reviews your request within about 5 to 7 business days.
   • OIS creates your new I-20 with the STEM OPT recommendation.

2. Submit application to the federal government after you receive your STEM OPT I-20.

Resources

Here are additional resources to help students learn more about the OPT and STEM OPT application processes and reporting requirements:

Pre-Completion and Post-Completion OPT

• Pre-Completion OPT Information
• OPT Information
• OPT Checklist
• OPT: Direct Relationship to Major Area of Study
• OPT: Reporting Requirements and FAQs
• Information about Premium Processing

STEM OPT Extension

• STEM OPT Information
• STEM OPT Checklist
• STEM OPT: Direct Relationship to Major Area of Study
• STEM OPT: Reporting Requirements and FAQs
• STEM OPT: Maintaining Status online presentation
• Information about Premium Processing

Application Aids and Reminders 

• Sample I-765
• OPT: From I-765 Online Filing Information
• Sample I-983 - for STEM only
• I-983 Instructions - for STEM only
• USCIS Application Reminders

Employment Platform - Interstride

Interstride is an interactive career platform designed to enhance the career exploration and job-search experience for international students. Although this resource is primarily for international students, it also provides a variety of other tools that can be utilized by all students. For more information, please visit the Career Center's Interstride page.

Networking and Pitt Connections

• Alumni Association