International Services for Students and Scholars (ISSS) holds programs during the year to provide support for the international population at RPI. These programs range from orientation sessions and informational workshops to social events.
Spring 2026
Are you an F-1 student, in your final semester, who wants to work in the U.S. after graduation?
Students in their final semester are eligible to apply for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work after graduation.
OPT Soft Deadline for Spring 2026 Graduates: Friday, March 06, 2026.
- We recommend students apply with ISSS by this date to allow sufficient time and reduce the risk of delays in USCIS processing that could impact their requested employment start date; ISSS will accept applications after this date.
To apply for OPT, follow these steps:
- Complete the OPT Workshop to learn about OPT requirements.
- This workshop is mandatory.
- ISSS will not issue an OPT Recommendation I-20 until this workshop is finished.
- There are no group workshops, as you will complete the on-demand online workshop from the above link.
- This workshop is mandatory.
- Submit completed OPT Application to ISSS.
- Allow the current ISSS processing time for review of the OPT application.
CCPD and ISSS present a workshop to learn about the internship search and the ways to get Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to work in the U.S. before graduation!
- This workshop is for both undergraduate and graduate students.
- Registration required!
Workshop details will be published on the News and Events page.
ISSS presents a workshop to advise on immigration options available during the final semester of an F-1 student's program and on life after graduation.
- This workshop is for both undergraduate and graduate students.
- View presentation slide deck
- Event recording - coming soon!
Workshop details will be published on the News and Events page.
NPZ Law Group presents a virtual workshop on the visa options beyond the F-1 visa; including the H-1B, O-1, and many more!
- This workshop is for both undergraduate and graduate students.
- Registration is required!
Workshop details will be published on the News and Events page.
ISSS presents a Scholar Orientation session each month to help the scholars understand the requirements of maintaining status in the U.S. and to answer any questions.
Contact ISSS to schedule your scholar orientation session at ISSSoffice@rpi.edu.
