Understanding the OPT Program for International Students in the U.S.
International students flock to the United States with the hope of enriching their educational experiences and gaining valuable work experience. Among the most significant opportunities available to these students is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows foreign students to work in their field of study while they complete or after they finish their degrees.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment program specifically designed for students holding an F-1 visa. It provides international students with a chance to gain practical experience directly related to their major areas of study. Students can apply for up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization, which can be utilized either before completing their studies (pre-completion OPT) or afterward (post-completion OPT). It’s essential to note that any pre-completion OPT time will count against the total post-completion OPT period.
The Importance of STEM OPT
For students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), there’s a special extension available. The STEM OPT program extends the original 12-month OPT by an additional 24 months, allowing these students a more extended period of employment within their fields. This extension is particularly vital as it aligns with the increasing demand for skilled professionals in STEM sectors.
To participate in any form of OPT, students must secure an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This authorization is legally necessary for any employment under the OPT framework.
Leading Employers for OPT Participants
In 2024, a notable trend emerged in the hiring landscape for foreign students on OPT. Amazon topped the list with 5,379 job opportunities offered, demonstrating its commitment to employing international talent. Some other significant employers include:
- University of California: 2,112 positions
- Arizona State University: 1,895 positions
- University of Texas: 1,305 positions
- Tesla: 1,170 positions
- Goldman Sachs: 1,148 positions
Overall, the landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with notable companies like Google, Meta, and Microsoft also joining the ranks of top employers.
OPT Statistics and Trends
In 2024, a remarkable total of 194,554 foreign students acquired work authorization through the OPT program, marking a 21% increase from 2023. The STEM OPT numbers were even more impressive, with 95,384 students obtaining authorization specifically through the STEM extension—a spike of 54% compared to the previous year. Contrastingly, the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) saw a slight decrease, with a 0.4% reduction in work authorizations.
Demand for Talent in Technology
The striking increases in both OPT and STEM OPT can be attributed to the pressing demand for skilled professionals in technology and engineering fields. As U.S. immigration policies tighten, securing H-1B visas and green cards can be a challenging task for many international professionals. As a result, companies are increasingly turning to fresher talent—foreign students—who are easier to onboard and can be trained according to the company’s specific needs.
Strategic Hiring Practices
Dmitri Litvinov, CEO and Founder of Dreem, emphasizes that the high demand for top tech talent is prompting companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to strategically hire younger international graduates. “It’s a smart way to create a robust pipeline of talent that matches the growing needs of the U.S. tech industry,” Litvinov explains.
STEM OPT Employers
The competition for STEM graduates is evident, with various companies leading in hiring opportunities. The top employers for students in the STEM OPT program in 2024 included:
- Amazon: 6,679 positions
- Google: 1,778 positions
- Microsoft: 1,496 positions
- Meta: 1,302 positions
- Walmart: 1,140 positions
Notably, companies like Intel, Apple, and Goldman Sachs are actively seeking STEM graduates, underlining the critical need for skilled talent in technology and related industries.
The complexities surrounding the OPT program and the STEM extension are becoming more pronounced as the landscape of international employment shifts. For international students eager to make their mark in the U.S. labor market, understanding these dynamics is crucial for leveraging their educational experiences into successful careers.
