[Mayada]

Hi,

I am on j1 visa in u.s. and have two year home stay requirement. I would like to stay for some time longer to get some work experience and therefore considering applying for opt which allows for 2-year stay. Grateful if someone could advise how I apply for opt.

Thanks

[lawanwadee]

You must submit application to USCIS 120 days prior to the completion of your study. You need supported documents from school, etc. Contact international office of your school and start from there.

[Mayada]

Hi lawanwadee,

Thanks for the infor. The international office at my school says that since I am j1 visa I am not eligible for opt. how else I can process the application?

Thanks

[lawanwadee]

In this case it means you're subject to 2 years rule and cannot be waived or extended. Conditions are different in each case depending on the funds.