Can I work in the US after my degree, and how does OPT work for me?
OPT is a temporary employment permission that typically gives you around 12 months of practical experience in your field of study. You can apply after being enrolled for at least 9 months, but you cannot begin work until you receive your Employment Authorisation Document. Check official USCIS rules.
OPT lets you gain practical experience in your field of study in the US, typically for around 12 months. You can apply after being enrolled for at least 9 months, but you cannot start work until your Employment Authorisation Document arrives.
OPT at a Glance
| Feature | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary employment permission to gain practical experience in your field of study |
| Typical duration | Around 12 months |
| When you can apply | After being enrolled for at least 9 months |
| When you can start work | Only after you receive your Employment Authorisation Document |
Other Routes After Your Studies
- The Student Co-Op Program is a structured program, usually run at colleges and universities, that recruits students to fill permanent positions on graduation.
- For a full-time permanent job, you will in most cases need to apply for a work visa.
- Rules change, so verify details on the official US government and university international office pages.
My Advice
Talk to your university's international student office early, since they guide the OPT filing. Do not start any work before the EAD is in your hands, and check the official rules for the latest timelines.
How long can you stay and work after a US master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
More Post-study work questions
- Is a loan sanction letter from the government regulated Indian Bank accepted for a UK student visa application?
- How much bank balance is needed for an Italy student visa after failing math in 12th grade?
- Is Germany the best first priority country for my course and career scope for a Master's?
- Can I call my husband on a dependent visa after I go on a student visa for my masters abroad in UK/Ireland?
- What are the career prospects in Singapore after completing an MPH at NUS as an Indian student?
- Which Master's programs in Europe would be most suitable for someone with a B.Com (69%) and MBA (70%), given my interest in management-focused roles and lack of extensive work experience?
- Is it possible for my son, who is currently in twelfth grade, to study in New Zealand next year for a Diploma?
- Which master's course suits a Supply Chain Management graduate planning to study in Canada?
More USA questions
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- How much extra should I keep aside for unexpected costs during my MS in the USA?
- By when do I need to submit my application for most UG and PG courses at UCLA?
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?