Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I track my USCIS case status?

You can track your USCIS case status by entering your 13-character receipt number (e.g., IOE1234567890) into TrackMyOPT's Case Status Tracker. The tool checks USCIS directly, shows your current status with plain-English explanations, and sends you email notifications when your status changes.

Q: Which companies sponsor H-1B visas?

TrackMyOPT provides a searchable database of 25,000+ companies that sponsor H-1B visas. Top sponsors include technology companies (Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta), consulting firms (Deloitte, Accenture, Cognizant), and financial institutions. You can filter by industry, location, approval rate, and number of petitions filed. The database is updated regularly with LCA data.

Q: Is TrackMyOPT free?

Yes! TrackMyOPT offers a free plan that includes OPT timeline tracking, unemployment clock, 1 USCIS case tracker, and basic email alerts - all free forever. The Pro plan starts at just $4.99/month and adds priority case alerts, H-1B verified sponsor data, AI resume scoring, and detailed job analytics.

Q: What documents do I need for OPT application?

For OPT application (Form I-765) you need: passport-style photos, copy of Form I-94, copies of all previously issued I-20s, copy of passport ID page, copy of current visa stamp, copy of any previous EADs (if applicable), and the $470 filing fee for online filing ($520 for paper filing). Your DSO must recommend OPT in SEVIS before you apply.

Q: How do I apply for STEM OPT extension?

To apply for STEM OPT extension: 1) Verify your degree qualifies as STEM (CIP code list), 2) Ensure your employer is enrolled in E-Verify, 3) Complete Form I-983 Training Plan with your employer, 4) Get new I-20 from your DSO recommending STEM extension, 5) File Form I-765 with USCIS before your current OPT expires. You can apply up to 90 days before and must apply before your current EAD expires.

Q: Do F-1 students need to file taxes?

Yes, F-1 students must file taxes even with no income. If you have no income, you must file Form 8843 (Statement for Exempt Individuals). If you have income, most F-1 students file as non-resident aliens using Form 1040-NR. The Substantial Presence Test determines if you're a resident for tax purposes. TrackMyOPT's Tax Guide helps determine your filing requirements.

Q: What is cap-gap extension?

Cap-gap extension automatically extends your OPT work authorization if you have a pending or approved H-1B petition subject to the annual cap. It bridges the gap between your OPT expiration and October 1 (when H-1B status can begin). Your employer must file the H-1B petition, and you must have valid F-1 status when it's filed.

Question 1

What is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

Answer

OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 international students to work in the United States for up to 12 months after completing their academic program. The employment must be directly related to your major field of study. STEM degree holders may apply for an additional 24-month extension, allowing up to 36 months of total OPT work authorization. OPT is administered by USCIS through Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).

Question 2

How many days of unemployment are allowed on OPT?

Answer

For initial Post-Completion OPT, you are allowed a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during your entire OPT period. For STEM OPT extension, you receive a separate 60-day unemployment allowance. Unused days from initial OPT do not carry forward. Unemployment days start accumulating from your EAD start date or program end date, whichever is later. Exceeding these limits can result in falling out of F-1 status and violating your immigration status.

Question 3

What is the 90-day rule for OPT?

Answer

The 90-day rule states that F-1 students on Post-Completion OPT cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment. Working at least 20 hours per week in a position related to your major stops the unemployment clock. Unpaid internships, volunteer work (at least 20 hours/week), and self-employment in your field also count as employment. TrackMyOPT helps you monitor these days with real-time tracking and alerts.