Applying for F-2 for spouse while the other is on F-1 should not be a problem. However F-2 will be granted only till the extent of the validity of OPT. You need to establish the following for our spouse: 1. Bona Fide Married Relationship 2. Sufficient funds to support the spouse while in the US 3. Employed under OPT and having received pay checks 4. Intent to return to home country upon completion of OPT period Talk to your International student Advisor, they will issue you a F-2 I-20 for your spouse. Tell your spouse to apply for F-2 ONLY till the period valid. Send copies of all I-20s, OPT, SSN, Pay Checks, Invitation letter from the school (if possible), Employment Contract, Bank Statement/Balance in the US or in home country. The spouse , if employed in home country should show leave approval letters, evidence of employment, property documents, educational leave etc to show compelling evidence that she will return. Good Luck !