Apply for OPT to work in the US after your studies

Thu 04 Mar 2021

Did you know that if you graduate from an undergraduate, graduate, or Ph.D. program in the U.S. that you are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

The U.S. offers thousands of learning opportunities, attracts students from all around the world, and is widely recognized as having some of the best education institutions. In addition to being a great place to study and highly supportive of international students, the U.S. also allows students on a student visa (F-1) to get work experience after graduation, in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

What is OPT?

OPT can be an important part of your learning path, enabling you to get practical work experience in your chosen field of study. Many employers prefer candidates with experience, so in addition to gaining insight and knowledge in an industry or specific company, this experience can also help you get the job you always wanted.

Under the OPT scheme, eligible students can work for up to 12 months after graduation in a full-time job that is directly related to their studies.

Find out more about how we can help you on your path to study and work in the U.S.

Further STEM OPT visa extension

The U.S. government also allows students who’ve graduated in one of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields to apply for a 24 months extension of their OPT. If you decide to study in any of the U.S. Department for Homeland Security approved STEM fields, you can apply for a further 24 months to your OPT. Study in these fields can offer many benefits, with engaging and innovative classes, and often leads to careers with top salaries and excellent career progression. What’s more, the STEM OPT scheme gives you the opportunity to get solid work experience within your chosen STEM field. Find out more about the approved list of subjects available on the STEM OPT scheme or contact us today.

Find out more about how we can help you on your path to study and work in the U.S.

ONCAMPUS Boston

ONCAMPUS Boston provides a route to study at some of the US’s most prestigious universities. Our International Freshman Programme is a one-year course so you can improve your English skills and grades and go on to transfer to any US university. In addition to improving your written and spoken English language skills, you can also participate in our Comprehensive Study Programme at Curry College and take classes alongside other Curry College students. Take a look at the study route options at ONCAMPUS Boston and what it’s like to be a student there. ONCAMPUS provides helpful and friendly advice, and if you decide to go on to participate in the OPT scheme, we can help you through that process too.

Kick-start your career at top STEM college Illinois Tech

Live in the U.S. and study a STEM subject at the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) – a world-renowned university in the heart of Chicago. Recognized as one of the world’s leading schools, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and related fields, Illinois Tech welcomes students from all over the world and offers a wide range of STEM degrees. Located seven minutes from downtown Chicago, Illinois Tech has great student sports and social scene. Find out more about what it’s like to be a student at Illinois Tech.

Our International Freshman (IFY) and International Graduate (IGY) programs, are uniquely designed to support you to improve your academic and English language levels, so you can matriculate to your chosen major at Illinois Tech.

Find your perfect route to Illinois Tech or apply online today.

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