Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available for students after they graduate.  This allows students to work in the US for one year after they graduate.  OPT may take place anywhere in the US and the work experience must relate to the student's degree.  The application is done through ISS and may not be started until 90 days prior to the program end date.  If a student's program ends spring semester they will need to contact ISS no sooner than February 16th; if the program ends in the fall the student should contact ISS no sooner than September 21st.

STEM Extension

Students in certain science, technology, engineering, or math fields may apply for a two-year extension to their regular OPT.  This extension may not be filed more than 120 days before the end of regular OPT.