Are you an F-1 student graduating in Fall 2023? If so, now is the time to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is here to help you through this important process. What is OPT? OPT is an employment benefit for students with F-1… read more
USCIS
Online Filing for OPT/STEM OPT Applications
ISSS currently advises you NOT to file your OPT/STEM OPT application online. What is the new option to file online? F-1 students must complete the Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization and mail it to USCIS with supporting documentation (including an OPT/STEM OPT I-20 issued by ISSS) to apply for… read more
USCIS OPT/STEM OPT Delays and Flexibility
USCIS is currently experiencing delays in issuing receipt notices for OPT and STEM OPT applications. USCIS has acknowledged these delays and are extending some flexibility to OPT or STEM OPT applications received between October 1, 2020 and May 21, 2021. If you applied for OPT and are concerned because your… read more
USCIS Revised Policy on Unlawful Presence
U.S. Customs and Immigration Services recently announced changes to their policy regarding violation of status and the accrual of unlawful presence. While these changes will not affect the majority of our students, it is important to be aware of potential consequences should you violate your F-1 or J-1 status. What… read more
Cap-Gap Extension
A Cap-Gap extension is an extension of F-1 visa status and/or Post-Completion OPT work authorization. This occurs when someone with an F-1 visa has an employment start date of October 1st and is a beneficiary of a timely filed H-1B petition requesting a change of status. In order for ISSS to provide… read more
Stay Informed: Scams Affecting International Students & Scholars
International students & scholars are often targeted by anonymous individuals alleging to be police officers or individuals working for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in an attempt to extort money from them. This is considered a scam or dishonest act. Recently, two international students informed the International Office that they… read more
Beware of Immigration Scams
FosterQuan, an immigration law firm with offices in Austin, published a recent article about immigration scams that target H-1B employees in particular, as well as other foreign nationals. We thought it was important information to share with our international population at UT. The article mentions the following tactics used by… read more
Spring Graduates: Apply Now for OPT!
Are you an F-1 student interested in gaining work experience in the U.S. after completing your degree at UT? If so, you should consider applying for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT allows students in valid F-1 status to gain up to 12 months of work experience in their field of study.… read more
Fall 2013 Graduates: Deadline to Apply for OPT is Near!
Did you graduate in December 2013 or have you recently defended your dissertation? Are you an F-1 student interested in gaining work experience after completing your degree? If so, you should consider applying for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT allows students in valid F-1 status to gain up to… read more
Fraud Alert: Be Careful With Your Personal Information
Always be cautious about the information you give to someone over the phone! An international student recently reported a possible scam. There have been other reports around the country of the same type of call. Be on the alert! According to reports, the caller will state that he is from… read more