New USCIS OPT Rules: Greater Flexibility for International Students

Great news for international students studying in the U.S.! If you're here on an F1 visa, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released new updates that will make your academic journey and work opportunities even smoother. These changes are designed to provide more flexibility, especially for those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, and make it easier to manage school transfers, online courses, and OPT extensions.

1. Exciting Updates You Should Know:

1) Longer Work Opportunities with STEM OPT Extensions

If you're studying in a STEM field, there's fantastic news! You can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension after completing your degree, giving you a total of three years of work experience in the U.S. This is a wonderful chance to gain hands-on experience in your field. The new guidance makes it easier to apply, so you can focus on building your future.

For students attending Day 1 CPT universities or those looking to extend their stay, this means more time to work, learn, and grow!

2) More Flexibility with Online and Distance Learning

Love the idea of blending online learning with your studies? Now you can! International students can count one class or three credits of online or distance learning toward their full course load. This is perfect if you want to balance your education with work opportunities, especially through Day 1 CPT programs that let you start working from day one.

3) Easier School Transfers and Degree Changes

Thinking about transferring schools or moving to a higher degree level, like a master’s or PhD? The new USCIS rules make it easier to transfer between SEVP-certified schools. Whether you want to find a better fit or switch to a school offering Day 1 CPT, these changes give you the freedom to make the best choices for your future.

You’ll now have more options and flexibility to follow your academic and career goals, without the stress of complicated transfers!

4) 60-Day Grace Period After OPT – More Time to Decide Your Next Steps

After you complete your Optional Practical Training (OPT), you’ll have a 60-day grace period to plan your next move. During this time, you can:

• Transfer to another SEVP-certified school,
• Change your education level, or
• Apply for a new visa or status in the U.S.

This grace period gives you the breathing room you need to explore new opportunities, whether it’s continuing your studies or applying for a new job. It’s a great way to ensure you make confident decisions about your future.

5) Seamless Study Abroad Experience

If you’re excited about studying abroad as part of your degree, USCIS has made it easier for you to stay on track. As long as your study abroad program lasts less than five months, you’ll remain active in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). If your program is longer, you’ll just need a new Form I-20. This flexibility makes sure you can still enjoy international experiences while maintaining your F1 status.

2. Why This Matters for International Students on F1 Visas

These updates are all about giving international students on F1 visas more freedom and clarity. Whether you’re exploring OPT and STEM OPT extensions, looking for Day 1 CPT schools, or considering a school transfer, these changes are designed to help you thrive in the U.S.

You’ll enjoy more time to work, more flexibility in your courses, and clearer guidance on maintaining your visa status—all of which will help you build a bright and successful future.