Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training) allows F-1 international students to begin off-campus employment from the very first day of their academic program, provided the program's curriculum requires it as an integral part of their studies.

How do I transfer universities with an active F-1 visa?

Transferring universities with an active F-1 visa involves coordinating your SEVIS record transfer between your current and new school's designated school officials (DSOs), obtaining a new I-20, and ensuring the new program aligns with your educational goals. UCSG can help you understand and navigate each step.

Can UCSG help with SEVIS termination?

Yes. UCSG provides informational resources and guidance for students whose SEVIS records have been terminated, helping them understand the reinstatement application process and explore options to resume their U.S. education.

What services does UCSG offer for international students?

UCSG offers educational guidance, program research, application coordination, and ongoing student support for F-1 international students in the United States, including informational resources about OPT, STEM OPT, and CPT.

STEM OPT Support

Navigate STEM OPT Denials & Extensions with Confidence

Get STEM OPT Backup Plan

WhatsApp Support

24 Months

STEM Extension Duration

STEM Fields Only

Eligible Degrees

1-3 Days

Backup Admission Time

Day 1 CPT

Work Authorization

Overview

The STEM OPT Extension allows F-1 students who earned degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields to extend their post-completion OPT by 24 months. However, denials, RFEs (Requests for Evidence), and timing issues can jeopardize your status. UCSG helps students navigate these challenges by providing backup university admissions with Day 1 CPT, ensuring you never fall out of status while resolving OPT issues.

Mindmap

STEM OPT — At a Glance

Everything you need to know about decision map

Decision Map

STEM OPT

STEM OPT Facts

24-Month Extension

36 Months Total Work Auth

E-Verify Employer Required

I-983 Training Plan

If Denied

Grace Period Applies

Act Immediately

UCSG Backup Admission (1-3 days)

Day 1 CPT as Safety Net

UCSG Backup Plan

Emergency University Admission

I-20 Transfer & CPT Auth

Continue Working Legally

Resolve USCIS Matters

Planning Tips

Start 2-3 Months Before Expiry

Keep All Employment Records

Report Changes to DSO

Annual Self-Evaluation

STEM OPT

STEM OPT Facts

24-Month Extension

36 Months Total Work Auth

E-Verify Employer Required

I-983 Training Plan

If Denied

Grace Period Applies

Act Immediately

UCSG Backup Admission (1-3 days)

Day 1 CPT as Safety Net

UCSG Backup Plan

Emergency University Admission

I-20 Transfer & CPT Auth

Continue Working Legally

Resolve USCIS Matters

Planning Tips

Start 2-3 Months Before Expiry

Keep All Employment Records

Report Changes to DSO

Annual Self-Evaluation

How It Works

Our step-by-step process to get you started

Free Status Assessment

Same day

Share your current OPT/STEM OPT situation, denial notice, or timeline. We assess your options and create a personalized action plan.

Backup University Admission

1-3 days

If your STEM OPT is at risk, we secure admission to a Day 1 CPT university so you can maintain lawful F-1 status immediately.

I-20 Transfer & CPT Authorization

3-7 days

Your new I-20 is issued with CPT work authorization, allowing you to continue working while resolving your STEM OPT situation.

Continue Working & Resolve

Ongoing

Work legally on CPT while pursuing your new degree. We continue to assist with any USCIS matters or future immigration steps.

Why Choose UCSG

Benefits of working with our team

Emergency backup admission within 1-3 days

Day 1 CPT work authorization at new university

No gap in employment authorization

SEVIS record transfer handled for you

Guidance on STEM OPT RFE responses

Long-term immigration strategy planning

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Get Started?

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