Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to gain practical experience directly related to their major after completion of their program. It is typically used for full-time employment after the completion of your program, but it may also be used for internships or unpaid work. OPT is authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), not by Union College. Students can apply for Post-Completion OPT as early as 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after.

F-1 students who have completed all of their course work for their degree program, have been enrolled continuously for at least one full academic year, and are currently in the US. You do not need a job offer to apply for post-completion OPT.

F-1 students may be authorized for up to 12 months of post-completion OPT at each educational level, and receive 90 days of unemployment total

During post-completion OPT, students may work part-time (at least 20 hours per week) or full-time in employment directly related to their major field of study.

Students who qualify may be eligible for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension, for a total of up to 36 months of employment authorization following completion of a qualifying STEM degree.

Students should be aware that periods of previously authorized pre-completion OPT may reduce the amount of post-completion OPT available at the same educational level.

• Attend an OPT workshop hosted by International Advising

• Meet with International Advising to learn about OPT eligibility, costs, application timeline, and materials you'll need to submit your application

• Complete the OPT I-20 Request Form

• Submit your application to USCIS after completing it with International Advising

• Wait for USCIS approval and your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to arrive in the mail

• Begin working only after receiving the required authorization

The STEM OPT Extension allows eligible F-1 students to apply for an additional 24 months of employment authorization after completing their initial period of post-completion OPT. STEM OPT has additional eligibility requirements related to the student's degree, employer, and training plan.

• Make sure you have a Social Security Number

• Attend an OPT Workshop hosted by International Advising

• Meet with International Advising to confirm that your degree and employment meet STEM OPT requirements, your eligibility and the application timeline

• Complete the STEM OPT I-20 Application

• Confirm that your employer meets the requirements for STEM OPT

• Complete the required training plan and application materials

• Apply for the STEM OPT Extension through USCIS

• Continue following all employment and reporting requirements

Students on post-completion OPT may not accrue more than 90 days of unemployment during their 12-month OPT period.

Students who receive a 24-month STEM OPT extension are permitted a maximum of 150 days of unemployment across the combined period of their initial 12-month post-completion OPT and STEM OPT extension.

Unemployment days are counted based on the employment information reported in SEVIS. Students are responsible for maintaining accurate employment information and reporting changes to their employment to International Advising in a timely manner.

OPT/STEM OPT requires planning well in advance. Do not wait until the last minute to begin learning about the application process. You may not apply for OPT/STEM OPT without assistance from International Advising.

*Beginning on March 18, 2027 all post-completion OPT and STEM OPT applications must also include submission of Form I-539 to formally request an Extension of Stay. International Advising will work with impacted students to complete the necessary paperwork.