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New Rules Regarding Optional Practical Training (OPT):

1. Students who have an approved or pending H-1B application receive an automatic extension of their duration of status and employment authorization (you must apply for it through our office--contact us for details),
2. Students graduating in STEM majors and employed in related work may be eligible to extend OPT from 12 to 29 months (BYU list of majors & codes),
   
3. Students may apply for OPT up to 60 days after their completion date; however, the USCIS Service Center must receive the application before the 60 day deadline and within 30 days of the DSO's signature on the I-20.
4. Limits of unemployment:
• Students on post-completion OPT may have up to 90 days of unemployment
• Students who receive a 17-month STEM OPT extension are given an additional 30 days of unemployment for a total of 120 days.
  
5. Student Reporting Requirements through a Web form.
• Periods of employment (should keep a record of all employment information)
• Periods of unemployment
• Employer name and address
  
• Any changes in employment status
  
6. For detailed Q&As, click here.

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