Question

duration of OPT - Let's talk! When I finish my studies I want to do optional practical training but I have some question about it. What is exactly the duration? Because I want to move to another state. For those who don’t know an OPT is a work benefit allowed to international students in F-1 immigration status who are completing a degree program in the united states.You can use it pre-completion (over the annual vacation or leave term) or post-completion (once you finish your degree). If you need more information please feel free to ask me anything and if you could resolve my doubts it’d be nice! Thanks

Josh Last updated by chase: Dec 19, 2017

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**Sophia**: · Answer 1

The initial post-completion period for which you can apply is 12 months and the requested employment start date must be between the end of the program date and 60 days later. I know because I started mine las year and I was obsessed with finding all kinds of information about it. Remember you should be enrolled in legal status for at least 9 months and that the OPT must be directly related to whatever field your degree is in. But don’t worry about moving to a different state because I think you can change or interrupt your employment if you notify the office. You should check that out because I’m not a hundred percent sure. Either way I hope this helps somehow! Have a nice day

**Seth**: · Answer 2

Are you sure you can interrupt the OPT? I don’t think you are allowed to do that … also do you know if is extendable beyond 12 months? I’m scared that I am not going to like it and if I do maybe I would like to have the option to extend it.

**chase**: · Answer 3

Seth is right; you can use it in chunks before completion of studies but after you must use it as a single block of time. If you do a bit before completion remember to deduct the difference of any previous OPT time.