If my OPT ends, can I start a new course?

Let’s clarify this matter: many international students wonder if they can start a new course after their OPT (Optional Practical Training) ends. Transitioning to new studies is possible, but it requires attention to several details to ensure you continue complying with U.S. immigration laws.

In general, you can begin a new academic program if you are accepted by a certified institution and receive a new Form I-20. This document is essential because it demonstrates that you are currently enrolled in a course that qualifies you to maintain F-1 status. It is important to coordinate the start date of the new course with the end of your OPT, avoiding any periods when your status may be uncovered.

During this transition, it is crucial to keep in contact with the Designated School Official (DSO) at your new institution, who can guide you through the necessary steps for issuing the new I-20 and maintaining your lawful status. If there is any gap between the end of your OPT and the start of the new course, it is vital to assess how this period will be treated, always seeking to avoid unlawful presence.

We emphasize the importance of strictly following U.S. immigration rules and seeking information from reliable sources or specialized companies – beware of offers promising miracle solutions or guaranteed results, as immigration processes are complex and require legal compliance.

Therefore, yes, it is possible to start a new course after your OPT ends, provided you complete all required procedures and maintain a valid status. If you have specific questions, we recommend seeking proper guidance, always respecting current regulations and avoiding solutions that promise easy results without legal support.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.