F1 to OPT

[kritika]

Does anybody know how long can I continue to be in the United States without a job after completing my studies? I'm currently on F1 visa and about to finish my MS in July 2008. I want to know if there is any way that I can continue to be in the US without a job and without going for further studies. According to the new 29 month OPT rule, how do I make myself to be safe to travel to my home country and back to the United States after completion of my studies?

[DMX17]

I think the new rule allows unemployment while you are on 12-month OPT for a mximum of 90 days. If you are not able to find a job within 90 days of your OPT start date (for the 12- month OPT period), your F1 status is in jeopardy. The total aggregate unemployment period is 90 days for students on 12 month OPT. During an approved 17 month extension, this period increases by 30 days (so I guess 120 days?). Read the law.

[vkautilya]

Voluntary work will also count as employment. So, if you cannot find the employment talk to your advisor and ask for an voluntary employment (i.e. without pay).