Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to obtain employment in areas related to their academic major and degree level. Twelve months of OPT is available at each degree level.
NOTE: If you have used more than 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you are not eligible to apply for OPT.
NOTE: Students enrolled in English language training or Certificate programs are not eligible for OPT.
Change of Employer After Post-Completion OPT Has Been Authorized
You may change employers after you have begun OPT provided that the new job is (1) directly related to your field of study and (2) appropriate for someone at your degree level.
Reporting Responsibilities
Within 10 days of accepting a new job offer, login to eOISS and complete OISS's online OPT Employment Update Form.
Within 10 days you must report to OISS if any of the following information changes:
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will provide you with information about the SEVP Portal at the time of OPT approval. It is voluntary for you to enter your employment information into the SEVP Portal.
NOTE: Knowingly engaging in fraud or misrepresentation of employment while on OPT could have serious negative consequences on your immigration status.
The employer must report the termination or departure of the student to OISS. An employer must consider a student to have departed when the employer knows the student has left employment or if the student has not reported for work for a period of five consecutive business days without the employer's consent.
When you travel while on OPT, you must bring the following:
Handshake - via UNH's Career and Professional Success
This career management system can be helpful in identifying potential employers who have hired international students to work in the U.S., as well as other countries.