How long is the new work permit for international student going to last?

Question

I heard in the news that F-1 students are given 2 and a half years to stay in the US after graduation. Does this mean that an international student gets 2.5yrs of OPT after graduation?

Answer 1

Don't listen to ibu guru, he/she is wrong as per usual.

OPT is still 12 months unless your degree is in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematic) field, in which case OPT is for 29 months.

Answer 2

No.  Some courses of study require a practicum as part of the course of study.  International students are not allowed to work (except certain interships as part of the course of study).  It only means those who qualify for OPT might get a maximum of up to 2.5 years.  It is up to the sponsor for your training program.  Some OPTs are only 3 or 4 months.  And you still have to return home on completion.