Applying for OPT while on one semester of f-1

[gabiperes]

Hi,
I'm able to graduate this semester with my master's, however this is my first semester on a f-1 status, I was on a h-3 status for 2 years but since it was expiring i decided to change back to a f-1. I came in to the states as a f-1 in 2008, an i was on f-1 status for 1.5 years when i changed to h3. Would I be able to apply for opt? i saw the regulation says i should be lawfully enrolled for one academic year to apply for practical training, but what does that mean? I've been enrolled in school all these time...

 

[angela20]

OPT (Optional Practical Training) is off-campus employment authorization that lets F-1 students get work experience in their major field of study.

Who is eligible:

You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.

You must be able to describe how the type of work you are seeking directly relates to your major.

You do not have to have a job offer to apply for OPT.

If you are applying for OPT before you complete your studies, you should be as sure as possible of a job so that you do not waste any of your OPT “account.”

You may apply for after-completion of studies OPT up to four months before your requested employment start date.