Immigration
Definition
The visa is the most common US student visa, allowing foreign nationals to pursue full-time academic study at a USCIS-approved institution. F-1 students may work on campus and, after completing a degree, qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in the US for up to 3 years in STEM fields.
visa holders must maintain full-time enrollment at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school and are overseen by a Designated School Official (DSO). On-campus employment of up to 20 hours per week is permitted during the academic year. Off-campus work requires authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during the program or Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completion. OPT allows graduates to work in a field related to their degree for 12 months; STEM graduates can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, totaling up to 36 months of post-graduation work authorization. F-1 status does not directly lead to a green card, but many F-1 graduates transition to H-1B work visas sponsored by employers, or pursue other employment-based immigration pathways.
students approaching graduation face a critical and time-sensitive immigration decision: OPT application, STEM extension eligibility, H-1B lottery timing, and employer sponsorship requirements. Missing deadlines or making errors on OPT applications can result in gaps in authorized status. An immigration consultant can help you navigate the transition from student to work authorization and beyond.