Optional training for students on F-1 visa in US extended to 29 mths

Source: Economic Times of India

3 Mar 2010, 0225 hrs IST, Ishani Duttagupta, ET Bureau

NEW DELHI: The new optional practical training (OPT) rules for students on F-1 visas in the US, which came into effect since April 2008, are now proving a big advantage for Indian students in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) streams. These students can avail themselves of an extended OPT of 29 months. OPT is limited to 12 months after the completion of their degree for students of non-STEM streams.

All international students on F-1 visa in the US can participate in OPT after their studies are over. The US work experience complements their academic work and leads to greater career opportunities.

In the context of the global economic slowdown and the subsequent recovery, the OPT option has become very important for Indian students in the US, feel immigration experts. About 10% of the total international student population in the US took advantage of the OPT opportunity during the 2008-2009 academic year.

“The OPT facility is career-related and gives students the opportunity to gain experience and additional skills related to their area of studies. This flexible option is helping many Indian students, especially from the STEM disciplines, to acquire valuable work experience in the US, related to their area of studies,” James W Herman, minister, counsellor for consular affairs at the US Embassy, told ET.

He added that since the F-1 visas were not capped and not issued on any points-based criterion, they were easily available for students from India with the relevant qualifications.



Read more: http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/services/travel/visa-power/Optional-training-for-students-on-F-1-visa-in-US-extended-to-29-mths/articleshow/5635270.cms

for all the H1-B haters to vent even though this is not related to H1-Bs.

how long before this devolves into calling Indian students substandard and not competent....

Oh wait, the Americans just grow up to be "arrogant" and demanding. Never mind.

In this economy, US college graduates can't even find jobs. Time to put our own citizens first.

;)