Student Responsibilities while on OPT

Summary

Student requirements while on OPT.

Body

While on OPT, students must still report to ISS and follow the regulations below.

Student Responsibilities while on OPT

While working on OPT, an F-1 student must:

  • Send ISS a copy of their OPT EAD card to ISS using the OPT Reporting on-line form.
  • Work in a paid or unpaid position for at least 20 hours per week.
  • Not exceed more than 90 days of unemployment during their OPT period.
  • Work in a position related to the degree and educational level OPT is based on.
  • Keep records of their employment and/or volunteer history such as hours worked, dates, pay stubs if available, letters verifying employment/volunteer work, etc. to show that they maintained their F-1 OPT status when/if needed.
  • Report to the Designated School Official (DSO) via the OPT Reporting form within 10 days of new information or change in information:
    • Legal name change
    • New/Change in residential or mailing address
    • New/Changes in employer, giving employer name and address
    • Loss of employment
    • Departing the U.S. and forfeiting the remainder of your OPT period

If you have any questions regarding this information, please email iso@lsu.edu. 

Details

Details

Article ID: 1504
Created
Tue 5/6/25 4:21 PM
Modified
Tue 5/6/25 5:08 PM