The U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently conducted an audit of F-1 students working in the United States through the Optional Practice Training (OPT) program. OPT allows international students to work in their field of study after graduation for up to 12 months, with a possibility for a 24 month extension for those who earned STEM degrees.
ISSO reminds us of a few important points:
- ISSO encourages any current F-1 student who is interested in doing OPT after graduation to apply to do so;
- Any work opportunity undertaken while on OPT, must be related to a student’s field of study and for a bona fide employer;
- The OPT program has a robust reporting system, whereby students must report employer, employment, and address updates to the U.S. government via SEVP Portal accounts within 10 days of a change occurring. (Note: STEM OPT has additional reporting requirements). Students who experience difficulties with the Portal should contact ISSO;
- ISSO offers a number of opportunities for students to learn more about OPT, the application process, and responsibilities while on the program.
As a service, ISSOÂ monitors all immigration-related announcements and proudly serves the UNC Charlotte international community with advising, programming, and referral services. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact them.
