Introduction to Optional Practical Training

F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) is employment that is directly related to your field of studies and commensurate with your level of studies. Further, post completion OPT may include volunteer activity of at least 20 hours weekly that is directly related to your field of studies and commensurate with your degree level.

OPT may be authorized in the following situations:

Pre-completion

(A) on a part-time basis only , during the academic year while engaged in coursework

(B) on a part-time or full-time basis, during the annual vacation period

(C) on a part-time or full-time basis, while working on a master's thesis / project or doctoral dissertation following completion of all coursework.

Post-completion

(D) on a full-time basis only , once all degree requirements have been fulfilled.

You are granted a maximum of 12 months of OPT. OPT can be used on a pre-completion and/or post-completion basis, as long as the total amount used does not exceed 12 months. You must also meet certain eligibility criteria as indicated below. Note that part-time pre-completion OPT counts at a rate of 50% toward full-time OPT. For example, 2 months of part-time pre-completion OPT is equivalent to 1 month of full-time OPT.

Students in designated fields within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) may be eligible for an additional 17 months of OPT. For more information, click HERE.

Eligibility Criteria for Post-Completion OPT

• You must have been a full-time student at NYU for at least one academic year before you can engage in OPT.
• You must currently be in F-1 status.
• You must be in good academic standing at the time of application, and you must have made normal, full-time progress toward degree completion.

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