Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 international students to work in the United States for up to 12 months (up to 36 months for STEM fields) after graduation. Find out about eligibility, application steps, job requirements for OPT, and how to improve your career with OPT!
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary work authorization program for eligible F-1 international students enrolled full-time in a degree program whereby they can gain practical experience working in the United States field of study. Eligible students may apply for Pre-Completion OPT (before graduation) or Post-Completion OPT (after graduation) for a maximum of 12 months. Students with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) degrees may be eligible to apply for an extra 24-month extension of OPT for a maximum of three years of work experience in the U.S.
Students must submit Form I-765 to USCIS with the recommendation from their school, students must receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS before starting work. Jobs must be directly related to the student’s major, and the unemployment days may not exceed 90 days or 150 days in total for STEM OPT.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experiences, develop professional skills, build relevant professional relationships for career opportunities, and potentially increase the chances to stay and work in the U.S. long-term, such as through the H-1B visa. Start planning early and talk to your university’s international office!
🔹 Gain U.S. work experience in your field.
🔹 Enhance your resume for future career opportunities.
🔹 Potential pathway to H-1B visa or long-term employment.
At PaceXgrowth, we have innovative programs that are designed to accelerate your career in tech. Are you changing careers and have no tech experience or you currently work in tech and want to fast–track your career? Our job-focused training programs will give you both the technical and soft skills needed to land your dream tech job and succeed in it.
For Non-Tech Trainees
Do you have a non–tech background? Our Pre–Requisite training program trains you in fundamental tech skills through practical lessons, to prepare you for our advanced training courses. By the end of this program, you‘ll have all the core competencies necessary to focus on a high-growth area in tech.
✅ What you‘ll learn: Basic programming, information technology fundamentals, and problem-solving
✅ What you‘ll achieve: Qualified to enter the advanced tech training programs
Our advanced tech training programs will make you interview–ready quickly combining theoretical knowledge, practical application, and simulated projects and experiences. Theory: Understand the basic fundamentals of your program to set a solid foundation
Your journey doesn‘t end with placement. Our ongoing support program fosters mentorship to facilitate smooth onboarding, skills enhancement, and career pathway management throughout your career.
📌 Up to and including: Onboarding support, advanced certifications, networking placement
We'll create ATS-compliant resumes that generate new opportunities and interviews.
Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile and online presence.
Experience mock interviews and learn how to negotiate career offers.
🚀 94% Placement Rate
⏳ Shortest Training-to-Hire Timeline
🤝 1:1 Career Coaching
Struggling with OPT paperwork? Let PaceXgrowth guide you step-by-step
Phone: +91 9202993029
Email: info@pacexgrowth.com
Address: 174-175/3 Nehru Nagar, Indore, MP, 452001, INDIA
Phone:+1 (302)2136233
Email: info@pacexgrowth.com
Address: 8 The Green, STE A, Dover, Kent, Delaware, 19901, United States of America.
PaceX Growth assists USA accounting firms with developing smarter. We combine smart accounting services with powerful performance marketing – from targeted ads to SEO – to attract clients and build profit. We’ll take care of your online growth so you can focus on clients.