Eligibility for OPT with a Foreign Online Master’s Degree in STEM

Opting for Optimal Practical Training (OPT) in the United States after completing a master’s degree online from a foreign institution may seem like a straightforward process, but it has specific eligibility criteria. This article delves into the requirements and clarifies whether you are eligible to apply for OPT under these circumstances.

Accreditation and U.S. Institution

To be eligible for OPT, you must be enrolled in an educational institution that is accredited and authorized to issue the Form I-20. This form is essential as it confirms your F-1 student status, a mandatory requirement for OPT. If your online master’s program is offered by a foreign institution, it does not meet the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's criteria for OPT eligibility. The institution must be recognized by an American accrediting body, and the International Student Services (ISS) should be able to provide the Form I-20.

Physical Presence in the U.S.

Being in valid F-1 student status means being physically present in the U.S. for the duration of your studies. This requirement poses a significant challenge for students studying completely online from a foreign country. Remaining in your home country for the entirety of your program means you do not maintain the necessary physical presence to keep your F-1 status valid. Without this valid status, you are not eligible for OPT, which requires a student visa active and valid.

STEM Designation and Eligibility

Even if your degree is in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field, it must be conferred by an eligible U.S. institution for you to qualify for STEM OPT extensions. The institution must be accredited and have received approval from the Department of Homeland Security. This means that if your entire program is conducted online from a foreign country, you are not eligible for any version of OPT, including STEM extensions. Ensuring that the institution meets these criteria before you enroll is crucial to avoid any complications in the future.

Program of Study and Compliance

When considering an online program in the U.S. that is eligible for OPT, it is important to verify that the program meets the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's criteria. This includes checking that the program offers physical on-campus components, such as internships or research, which must be completed within the U.S. This ensures that you can comply with F-1 visa regulations and obtain the necessary documentation (Form I-20, DS-2019, etc.) to apply for OPT.

Conclusion

To summarize, if you are pursuing an online master’s degree from a foreign institution, you are not eligible to apply for OPT. The key points are accreditation, physical presence in the U.S., and compliance with the F-1 visa regulations. For those considering an online program that may offer some form of OPT, it is crucial to verify the institution's eligibility and ensure you adhere to all immigration rules.

Resources and Further Reading

You can find more detailed information on USCIS rules and regulations regarding OPT on the official official USCIS website.

By understanding these requirements, you can make informed decisions about your educational and career goals in the U.S. Remember that compliance with immigration laws is essential for a successful experience in the United States.