Are you an F-1 student who will graduate in Fall 2016? Are you wanting to work in the U.S. after graduation? If you answered yes, then you want to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a work authorization for F-1 students that allow you to work in… read more
OPT
STEM OPT changes effective May 10, 2016
Changes to the STEM OPT extension went into effect on May 10, 2016. Previously a 17 month extension, the STEM extension is now 24 months. To review the changes to STEM eligibility, additional reporting requirements, and how to apply, please visit our STEM OPT changes page. Additionally, our office held… read more
Planning to Graduate in Absentia?
Graduating “In Absentia” means that you will complete your degree requirements as a non-registered student. Not sure what this means? For example, say you complete your thesis after the summer semester submission deadline but before fall classes begin. You then apply for in absentia graduation: you will not be a… read more
Employment Seminar for International Students & Scholars
International Student & Scholar Services invites you to an Employment Seminar! Date: Tuesday March 8, 2016 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm Location: Peter O’Donnell Jr. Building (POB) (Room 2.302 for F-1 Students / Room 2.402 for J-1 Students & Scholars) The seminar will focus on employment options that are available… read more
Post-Completion – Optional Practical Training (OPT) for Spring 2016 graduates
Are you an F-1 student who will graduate May 2016? Are you wanting to work in the U.S. after graduation? If you answered yes, then you want to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a work authorization for F-1 students that allow you to work in your… read more
Update for Potential Changes to the STEM extension
The STEM extension deadline was for February 12, 2016. Was a decision made yet? There has not been a final decision made on this case. However, on January 23, 2016, the District Court gave Department of Homeland Security an extension to appropriately implement the STEM extension. Now DHS has a… read more
Potential Changes to the STEM extension
You might have heard about changes to the program surrounding the Optional Practical Training (OPT) STEM extension. We wanted to provide you with information to help clear up any questions you might have. What are the changes about? In March 2014, there was a court case, Washington Alliance of Technology… read more
Issues with Obtaining or Renewing a Driver’s License
International applicants for a Texas driver’s license or Texas ID must be processed through the government’s SAVE database at the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The SAVE database confirms F-1 and J-1 visitors’ valid status and benefits eligibility with the SEVIS database so that DPS can grant a driver’s license.… read more
Spring 2015 Graduates, It’s Time to Apply for Post-Completion OPT!
Are you an F-1 student graduating in May 2015? If you are interested in gaining work experience after completing your degree, now is the ideal time to start the application process for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a type of work authorization allowing eligible F-1 students to work… read more
Is it too early to apply for Post-Completion OPT if I am graduating in Fall 2014?
So you might be wondering when is the appropriate time to apply for Post-Completion OPT if you will graduate in Fall 2014 or defend your dissertation within the next 120 days. The answer to your question is now! For some students who already have a full-time job offer to begin… read more