F-1 OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING: This is the time of year when many students are considering their summer work options or their post-graduation plans. Many F-1 students will take advantage of the optional practical training (OPT) permit. Those of you who are still considering whether or not to apply should be aware that the processing of OPT applications will slow down considerably beginning April 1, 2008, when the immigration office will be deluged with H-1B applications. It is advisable to apply for OPT as soon as possible. To make an appointment with your HIO advisor, please visit our web site at www.hio.harvard.edu and click on Schedule an Appointment. For more information about OPT, visit www.hio.harvard.edu/students_scholars/student_employment/f1_opt.php.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS INFORMATION: Be sure to keep your residential address information up to date. Updating the Registrar's Office at your school does NOT mean the information is passed on to HIO. F and J visa holders can give us new address information through the HIO Website. Those of you holding other types of visas should consult our Website for the proper procedure. This is essential to maintaining legal status in the United States.

VISA EXPIRATIONS: Check the expiration date of your visa document. If you will not be graduating by the expiration date on your visa document, you should contact our office regarding extension procedures. For more information, visit
http://www.hio.harvard.edu/students_scholars/student_employment/f1_i20_ext.php.