Many students each year obtain work permits to allow them a period of optional practical training in their field of study. Students on OPT typically have 14 months to complete 12 months of work. Due to the pandemic and many related factors, students seeking OPT have had their periods of work restricted.
USCIS has now responded by providing some relief to these students by allowing more flexibility. USCIS will allow students 14 months to complete their employment as of the date of approval of their form I-765, the work authorization application. It will also allow flexibility with many rejection and delays which have prevented students from engaging in OPT.