Working fulltime while on F1 using OPT ?

[tt tt]

Hi !

I am currently on F1 and have been offered a full time job starting in Sept.
I am due to graduate in december, however my last 2 classes do not require me to be on campus, since they are offered online.
I would like to know about my options to be able to join the company as soon as possible and legally be able to work.
1) Can I start my OPT 3 months early ( September instead of December(when I am supposed to graduate)) ?

2) How long is the OPT period valid..more than 12 months ?
3) How long does it take to get the OPT approved ?
4) How long after the OPT expires can I stay in the country ?

thanks
tt tt

 

[LucyMO]

1) Can I start my OPT 3 months early ( September instead of December(when I am supposed to graduate)) ?

If you are a graduate student, yes. if you are an undergraduate student - you may want to do CPT instead of OPT

2) How long is the OPT period valid..more than 12 months ? Only 12 months
3) How long does it take to get the OPT approved ? About 3 months, but give yourself some additional time.
4) How long after the OPT expires can I stay in the country ? 60 days grace period

 

[tt tt]

thanks !! eom