Optional Practical Training (OPT) OPT is one year of eligibility to work in the United Stated in a job that is directly related to your major area of study. OPT can be used while you are still pursuing your course of study and/or after you have finished your degree. The total amount of time you may spend engaging in OPT is 12 months maximum, (i.e. student may use OPT for 6 months before graduation and 6 months after graduation) but the big majority of international students apply for OPT to be used all 12 months after graduation. New regulations allow for an additional 12 months of OPT if you move to a higher level of education (i.e. you get 12 months of OPT after a Bachelor's degree, and another 12 months for the Master?s degree). You may be authorized for pre-graduation optional practical training: If you have enrolled as a full-time student for a minimum of one academic year (fall & spring semesters), and intend to register for the next semester While school is in session, OPT does not exceed 20 hours a week After completion of course requirements and before graduation (during thesis /dissertation) OPT can be full-time You may be authorized for post-graduation optional practical training: If you have enrolled as a full-time student for a minimum of one academic year (fall & spring semesters) You MUST apply for OPT 3 months before graduation USCIS must receive your application before your graduation date Eligibility: You must have been enrolled full-time in an academic program for at least one academic year To request permission to engage in OPT after graduation, you must apply during your last semester before completing your degree You must submit your application while you are still in the United States. You are not eligible to apply for OPT if you have already graduated and have left the United States.