OPT Job Rules: Lost job on OPT in America, what things need to be taken care of and how will you get a new job?

OPT Unemployment Rule: After earning a degree in the US, students focus on immediately starting their careers. This requires 'Optional Practical Training' (OPT). For many students, finding a job immediately after completing their studies is challenging. Despite applying to numerous locations, they often fail to find a job. Emails often go unanswered. Even if interviews are held, they are extremely limited.
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A student shared a similar problem on the social media platform Reddit. He has three years of software engineering experience. He has applied to over 4,000 jobs, sent over 1,000 cold emails, and contacted over 100 LinkedIn connections. Despite having a few interviews, he still hasn't found a job. Some companies are unwilling to sponsor, while others have given the job to others. This is the situation for thousands of students in the United States.

What are the rules of OPT?
Through OPT, students are allowed to work in a field related to their degree for 12 months. Students pursuing courses related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) can work on STEM OPT for up to three years. However, if someone does not find a job on OPT, certain rules have been established. Let's explore the rules related to OPT.

Duration of Unemployment: Unemployment is only allowed for 90 days on OPT. Unemployment is allowed for up to 150 days on STEM OPT. Exceeding this period affects the status of their F-1 visa. In some cases, deportation may be required.

Degree-Related Work: All jobs, internships, or volunteer work on OPT must be related to the student's degree. For example, if someone has studied computer science, they can only work in IT-related jobs. For example, software engineering jobs.

Documentation: While on OPT, it's important to keep records of where they apply, where they interview, and what projects they're working on. The university or immigration officer may request these details for verification.

SEVP Portal Updates: The company a student works for on OPT, their address, and employment status must always be updated. All these details must be entered on the SEVP Portal.

Tracking: To maintain compliance, it's important to monitor unemployment days and job details.

How to Find a Job?
Finding a job on OPT requires strategy and persistence. Students should focus on jobs that are relevant to their degree. They should tailor their resumes and cover letters accordingly. Additionally, networking should be done through college and university alumni networks, professional associations, LinkedIn, and industry events. All of these factors significantly help students find jobs. Students should also adhere to the OPT rules during this time.

Internships, freelance projects, short-term contracts, or volunteer work also count toward OPT if they are relevant. Tracking applications, communications, and engagements ensures compliance and increases the likelihood of finding a job. Cold outreach can open opportunities, but requires documentation. Students should also look for jobs in sectors where they may have potential. For example, for software engineering jobs, students may prioritize sectors like manufacturing and automation.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Navbharat Times. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.