The F-1 → OPT → STEM OPT → H-1B path (overview)

Who this is for

F-1 students mapping out how to work in the US during and after their studies, so they can plan timing with employers realistically.

The stages (what each one is — confirm specifics with your DSO/USCIS)

1. F-1 study. Your student status. Work is limited; on-campus work is generally allowed within the rules.
2. CPT (Curricular Practical Training) — work tied to your curriculum (internship/co-op) during the program. Your DSO authorizes it on your I-20 before you start. 12 months or more of full-time CPT makes you ineligible for post-completion OPT at the same education level. Ask your DSO to confirm how your CPT is recorded.
3. OPT (Optional Practical Training) — work authorization in your field after (or sometimes before) graduation. You file with USCIS and must have your EAD card in hand before you start working. For post-completion OPT, USCIS accepts Form I-765 from 90 days before through 60 days after your program end date, and must receive it within 30 days after your DSO enters the recommendation.
4. STEM OPT extension — if your degree is on the STEM list and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify, you may extend OPT. Separate application + employer training-plan requirements.
5. H-1B — a specialty-occupation work visa your employer sponsors. There's an annual cap with a selection (lottery) process; some employers (universities, nonprofits) are cap-exempt. This is where most people move from student status to longer-term work — driven by the employer + their attorney.

The golden rules (these don't change)

• Talk to your DSO FIRST, every time. They know your program's exact dates and issue the I-20 recommendations OPT/CPT depend on.
• Never work before your authorization is in hand (the I-20 CPT endorsement; the EAD card for OPT). Working unauthorized can end your status.
• Don't let status lapse and don't promise an employer a hard start date until your EAD has arrived — USCIS processing times shift, so build in slack.
• Treat any forum post (including this) as a starting point, not authority. Verify on USCIS + with your DSO/attorney.