Are you graduating this semester? Or are you an exchange student in your final semester? If so, it’s time to start thinking about your post-completion employment plans in the United States.
Yes, we know: It’s only February — but when it comes to working in the U.S., you really need to think ahead. Starting now gives you the best chance of success.
Can I work in the U.S. after I graduate (or complete my exchange program)?
If you plan ahead, follow the required steps, and meet some key deadlines, the answer is YES!
What kind of authorization do I need?
The required authorization depends on your immigration status. F-1 students need Optional Practical Training (OPT), while J-1 students need Academic Training (AT).
I’m an F-1 student graduating in Spring 2026. What do I need to know and do?
What to Know
- OPT allows you to work for up to 12 months in the U.S. in a job related to your major.
- You don’t need a job offer to apply for OPT.
- You get to decide your OPT start date. Choose a date within the 60-day period following graduation.
- OPT can take around three months (sometimes even longer) to approve. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of being approved by your requested start date.
What to Do
- Read through the required OPT workshop on our website. It walks you through everything and serves as a handy reference guide as you go through the application process.
- Submit your request for an OPT I-20 through myIO.
- Submit an online application to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Once you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS and your approved start date arrives, you’re ready to start working!
I’m a J-1 student graduating (or finishing my exchange program) in Spring 2026. What do I need to know and do?
What to Know
- J-1 Academic Training allows you to remain in the U.S. and work in a job or internship related to your major after you complete your program. The length of AT will depend on the length of your academic program.
- Timing is crucial. To be eligible for Academic Training work authorization, you must have an employment/internship offer in hand and have ISSS approval for AT before the semester ends.
What to Do
- Read the Academic Training information on our website to understand the process.
- Secure an internship or job offer in your major field of study. Important: Your first day of work must be on or before June 8, 2026.
- Submit a request for Academic Training through myIO by April 24, 2026. Once your academic advisor signs off on your request, give us 10 business days to process the AT and provide you with a new DS-2019.
- Begin employment on the approved AT start date listed on your updated DS-2019.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
We understand that employment authorization can feel confusing and overwhelming. But you don’t have to figure it out alone! After you’ve looked through our online OPT and AT resources, we’re happy to answer your questions.
- Quick questions: Drop by for Express Advising (no appointment needed).
- Wednesdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
- Fridays, 9-11:30 a.m.
- Complex situations: Schedule a one-on-one appointment.
This blog post was contributed by Mimi Ghosh, assistant director of the Student Advising Services team at ISSS.
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