F-1 OPT expiry if no job offer on hand?

[dhiktana]

The last I remember, F-1 OPT is initially given for a period of 12 months out of which the candidate is allowed to be unemployed for a total of 90 days. The STEM extension comes in to the picture only once about 9 months of OPT is done and then extension can be filed.

However, if the candidate is unemployed for more than 90 days, how can (s)he continue to live in the US? Isn't it illegal unless the candidate has moved to a different visa/COS within US? Or have the rules of unemployment within OPT changed recently?

Also, AFAIK, a student can apply for OPT up to 2 months after graduating- so assume a student graduated on 31st July 2011 - and get OPT say on 30th Sep 2011- then also as per the 90-day rule, (s)he has to find a job offer on or before end of year 2011 or else leave US or COS to another visa type, right?

Thanks in advance!

[kabkaba]

Most people manage by doing voluntary internships in their field of study (in the school where the graduate from or with some other company which may offer such internship).

[dhiktana]

Most people manage by doing voluntary internships in their field of study (in the school where the graduate from or with some other company which may offer such internship).

What is the rule about unemployment during OPT? How many days/months is it allowed to be unemployed and be under legal F-1 status during OPT?

[kabkaba]

90 days. You have to report employment/unemployment status to your school DSO as soon as it changes.

[dhiktana]

90 days. You have to report employment/unemployment status to your school DSO as soon as it changes.

Thank you so much kabkaka