Summary

of

Changes in Federal Regulations

on

Post-Completion F-1 Optional Practical Training

 

(Information Updated April 10, 2008)

 

 

 

Important Note

 

The information provided in this document is accurate as of the “Information Updated” date above.  The “Information Updated” date also appears under the title of each of the linked documents so that you will know when information in them has changed.

 

We expect frequent clarifications of the new regulations during the next few weeks from the federal government.  This is normal when new regulations are published.  As we receive these clarifications, we will update this information and indicate new “Information Updated” dates on any document that has changed.  If there are significant changes, we will send an e-mail message to your “Official University” e-mail address, as listed in your GWeb account.  This is the e-mail address we always use for broadcast messages we need to send to international students.   

 

 

Introduction

 

The purpose of this document is to summarize recent changes made by the U.S. government to F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) regulations.  This information is important for all GW international students in F-1 status, including graduates who are now engaged in post-completion OPT employment.

 

On April 08, 2008, the federal government published changes to the F-1 OPT regulations in the Federal Register.  The new regulations made very minor changes to pre-completion OPT.  The new regulations made significant changes to post-completion OPT or employment after completion of a program of study, and that is the subject of this information.  The changes became effective upon publication, so eligible students can now take advantage of the benefits they provide.  There are four significant changes and they are described in the linked attachments.

 

 

 

1.  Changes in the Application Period for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)

 

 

2.  Automatic Extension of Post-Completion OPT Authorization and Duration of Status (D/S)

 

 

3.  Period of Unemployment During Any Initial 12-Month Period of Post-Completion OPT

 

 

4.  Special Provisions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Students

 

 

5.  The STEM Designated Degree Program List