Post-Study Work in the USA | Complete Guide for Nepali Students (2026)

For many Nepali students, studying in the USA isn’t just about a degree — it’s also about gaining real-world work experience and building a global career. The USA offers international students the opportunity to work after graduation through post-study work options like OPT and STEM OPT.

Here’s everything you need to know about working in the USA after your studies, especially if you’re planning to apply for the 2026 intake.

✅ What is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows F-1 international students to work in the USA for up to 12 months after completing their studies. It is one of the most popular ways Nepali students start their careers in the USA.

1. ✅ Available to all F-1 students
2. ✅ Work must be directly related to your field of study
3. ✅ You can apply during or after your program ends

📌 Note: Apply for OPT within 60 days of completing your degree.

🔬 STEM OPT Extension (24 Months Extra)

If you graduate from a STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), you may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension — making your total work period up to 36 months (3 years)!

✔️ Some common STEM majors:

1. Computer Science
2. Data Analytics
3. Engineering
4. Information Technology
5. Biology
6. Mathematics

📝 Students must work for an E-verified employer to qualify for STEM OPT.

👨‍💼 What Kinds of Jobs Can You Do on OPT?

Jobs must be related to your major. For example:

1. A Nursing student can work in healthcare.
2. A Business student can work in marketing, accounting, or management.
3. An IT student can work in software or data fields.

You can work:

1. ✅ Full-time or part-time
2. ✅ On-site or remotely (if employer allows)
3. ✅ For one or multiple employers

🔄 CPT vs OPT – What’s the Difference?

CPT is like an internship during your degree, while OPT is your post-graduation work period.

🧑‍💼 H-1B Visa – The Next Step

After your OPT ends, many international students try to stay longer by applying for an H-1B visa. It’s a temporary work visa sponsored by your employer.

1. Filed in April every year
2. Based on a lottery system
3. If selected, valid for 3 years, renewable once (total 6 years)
4. Allows transition to a Green Card (PR) later

🇺🇸 Can OPT Lead to a Green Card?

Yes, it can — but it's not automatic. Here’s how:

1. An employer must sponsor you after your H-1B.
2. You may be eligible for EB-2 or EB-3 immigration categories.
3. The green card process may take a few years, but it’s a real pathway to long-term residency in the USA.

⚠️ Key Tips for Nepali Students

1. ✅ Choose a course with job demand (like STEM fields)
2. ✅ Use your university’s career center to find internships
3. ✅ Start planning for OPT before your graduation
4. ✅ Build a strong resume and network with employers
5. ✅ Understand deadlines for OPT and H-1B

📚 How GoingCollege Can Help

At GoingCollege.com, we do more than help you apply — we prepare you for the future.

1. Guide you to universities with strong career support
2. Help you choose STEM courses if you plan to work longer
3. Provide support for CV, SOP, and job preparation

✉️ Got questions? Email us at [email protected] or visit www.goingcollege.com

🔚 Final Thoughts

Post-study work is one of the biggest advantages of studying in the USA. With the right planning, Nepali students can gain valuable work experience, grow professionally, and even take steps toward permanent residency.

Whether you're planning for 2026 or still exploring options, GoingCollege is here to guide your journey — from admission to job success.