Required F-1 OPT Status Updates
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), within the Department of Homeland Security, requires schools to maintain certain information in SEVIS for all students currently completing optional practical training. As an F-1 student on OPT, you continue to be under Rice's sponsorship. As such, we must continue to maintain your SEVIS records accurate, so that you will remain in valid visa status.
While on F-1 OPT, students are required to inform OISS of any changes of address, employer, unemployment, departure, and status. Please click below to submit your updates.
F-1 Optional Practical Training Handout
Optional Practical Training is one of the two types of temporary employment available to students in legal F-1 status. This handout outlines the application procedure; please schedule an appointment with your International Student Advisor for further information about OPT. Please come by OISS to pick up a complete OPT packet.
F-1 STEM OPT Statement of Understanding
STEM OPT Extension is a temporary, 17-month employment authorization extension available to F-1 Students following
post-completion OPT. Not all F-1 OPT students will qualify for the extension, so please review the Statement of Understanding for details. To apply for the STEM OPT Extension, please see an OISS advisor.
F-1 OPT Resource Links
STEM OPT and Cap-Gap Interim Final Rule - On April 8, 2008, DHS published an Interim Final Rule (IFR) titled Extending Period of Optional Practical Training by 17 Months for F-1 Nonimmigrant Students With STEM Degrees and Expanding Cap-Gap Relief for All F-1 Students With Pending H-1B Petitions.
