Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension

Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension: Launching Your Career in the United States

Welcome to the “Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension” page at The Ahluwalia Firm. If you are an international student in the United States seeking practical work experience related to your field of study or a graduate in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) discipline looking to extend your stay and enhance your career prospects, our team of immigration attorneys specializes in guiding you through the complexities of OPT and STEM OPT Extension.

Understanding OPT and STEM OPT Extension

Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT is a program that allows eligible international students on F-1 visas to gain practical work experience in their field of study in the U.S. The standard OPT period is typically 12 months. OPT can be used before and/or after completing a degree program.

STEM OPT Extension: STEM OPT Extension is an extension of the OPT program available to graduates in STEM fields. It allows eligible students to extend their OPT period for an additional 24 months, totaling up to 36 months of practical training. This extension is designed to provide graduates with more opportunities to gain valuable work experience and enhance their career prospects.

Key Benefits of OPT and STEM OPT Extension

Participating in OPT and STEM OPT Extension offers several advantages:

Hands-on Experience: OPT allows you to gain practical work experience in your field of study, putting your academic knowledge into practice.

Career Opportunities: OPT and STEM OPT Extension provide opportunities to work for U.S. employers, network with industry professionals, and explore potential career paths.

Extension for STEM Graduates: STEM OPT Extension offers an extended period of work authorization for graduates in STEM fields, increasing the chances of securing H-1B sponsorship or other employment-based visas.

Flexibility: OPT and STEM OPT Extension permit work for multiple employers, self-employment, and training opportunities with E-Verify employers.

Our Expertise in OPT and STEM OPT Extension

At The Ahluwalia Firm, we specialize in assisting international students and STEM graduates with OPT and STEM OPT Extension. Our dedicated immigration attorneys have a deep understanding of the regulations and requirements governing these programs. We are committed to helping you make the most of your academic and career opportunities in the United States.

Our Services

Our comprehensive range of OPT and STEM OPT Extension services includes:

OPT Application Assistance: Assisting F-1 students in preparing and filing OPT applications with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

STEM OPT Extension Guidance: Guiding eligible STEM graduates through the process of applying for and maintaining their STEM OPT Extension.

Change of Status: Assisting individuals who are already in the U.S. on other visa categories through the process of changing their status to F-1 to pursue OPT.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Renewals: Ensuring timely renewal of EADs to maintain work authorization throughout the OPT and STEM OPT Extension period.

Getting Started with OPT and STEM OPT Extension

Embarking on OPT or STEM OPT Extension is a significant step towards gaining practical experience in your field and advancing your career in the United States. Our team at The Ahluwalia Firm is here to guide you through the application process, maintenance requirements, and employment opportunities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore how OPT and STEM OPT Extension can pave the way for your professional success in the U.S.

Additional Resources

Explore our website for valuable articles, resources, and updates on OPT, STEM OPT Extension, and other immigration topics. We are dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your academic and career goals in the United States.

Let The Ahluwalia Firm be your trusted partner in maximizing the benefits of OPT and STEM OPT Extension for your career advancement in the United States.