I’m studying in the US. Can I stay in America after I finish my degree?
🎓 Can an international student stay in the US after graduation?
Yes — it’s possible to stay in the US under certain conditions.
Here’s a quick look at two main options: OPT and H-1B.
💡 How long can I stay in the US after graduation?
If you’re studying on an F-1 visa, once your program ends, you have 60 days to:
✅ Leave the country,
✅ Obtain a new visa, or
✅ Change your status to stay legally in the US.
If you’d like to stay longer, your first option should be the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
1️⃣ Optional Practical Training (OPT)
👩💼 OPT allows international students to work in the US after graduation to gain practical experience in their field.
📘 Key details:
- You can apply for 12 months of OPT after each education level (e.g., bachelor’s and master’s).
- STEM graduates (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) may extend OPT by 17 months, totaling 29 months.
- While in OPT, you don’t need a new visa — you remain in F-1 status.
2️⃣ H-1B Specialty Occupations
💼 The H-1B visa allows graduates to work temporarily in specialized professions.
📘 What you need to know:
- You can apply for H-1B directly from F-1 or after completing OPT.
- Requires specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
- Common fields: science, engineering, information technology.
- Grants 3 years of work authorization, extendable for another 3 years.
🌟 Tips for success
🕐 Start early
Plan ahead — apply for jobs or internships before graduation. The earlier you begin, the smoother your transition.
📅 Choose your start date wisely
You can select your OPT start date. Remember: you can stay up to 90 days unemployed while on OPT, and your 12-month period begins on the date you choose.
🤝 Network!
Connections matter — attend events, meet people, and build relationships. You never know who might help you find the perfect job.
💬 Attend career forums
They’re a great way to meet employers, explore industries, and discover opportunities aligned with your goals.