GradAisleResource
How GradAisle displays F-1, STEM OPT, CPT, and related information for international graduate applicants — and what we don't provide.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
GradAisle's international student path is designed for applicants who completed their undergraduate degree in the United States on F-1 or a similar visaand are exploring US master's programs.
During onboarding, select International student — completed undergrad in the US (F-1 or similar). This unlocks visa and work-authorization tags on program cards and prioritizes STEM-designated programs in matching.
Support for students who earned their undergraduate degree outside the US is listed as Coming soon in the app and is not available yet.
On program cards and detail pages, international users may see:
Data is compiled from publicly available university sources. Program details change — use the last verified date on a program when shown, and confirm with the school before deciding.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets F-1 students work in the US after graduation. STEM-designated programs may qualify for a 24-month extension on top of the standard 12-month OPT — up to roughly three years of post-graduation work authorization.
On GradAisle, programs marked STEM OPT 3yr are STEM-designated. Programs marked 1yr OPT only are not STEM-designated and offer only the standard 12-month OPT period.
Important: STEM designation depends on the program's CIP code and federal lists, which can change. Always verify current STEM OPT eligibility with your university's Designated School Official (DSO) before relying on any label on GradAisle.
For international profiles, matching generally prioritizes STEM-designated programs and may exclude non-STEM programs except in certain fields such as accounting and nursing-related areas.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to work off-campus in jobs related to their field of study, typically after completing a required number of credits.
A small number of programs offer CPT from the first day of enrollment. On GradAisle this appears as the Day 1 CPT tag — meaning off-campus work may be available immediately without waiting for credit thresholds. This is uncommon and should be researched carefully with your DSO and the program.
The No CPT tag means the program does not offer curricular practical training during the degree. F-1 students at these programs typically cannot work off-campus until post-graduation OPT.
Program detail pages may also show when CPT becomes available, credit requirements, and estimated CPT-related costs where we have that data.
Funding and cost information on GradAisle helps you compare programs, not replace a financial aid offer letter.
Some universities admit international students through a pathway or conditional program run by a third-party provider. These programs may involve additional fees, English-language requirements, or different progression into the main degree.
GradAisle flags these as Pathway Program so you can factor them into your research. Matching may apply penalties or notes when pathway admission is involved.
When you select the international student residency path, GradAisle's matching algorithm:
AI re-ranking also considers F-1 visa context and STEM OPT when explaining why programs fit your profile. These are research aids, not predictions of visa approval or admission.
Information about F-1 visas, CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT on GradAisle is general and informational only. For advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified immigration attorney or your institution's international student office.
See our Terms of Service for full disclaimers.
Ready to start matching? See the Application Guide. Questions? Support or admin@gradaisle.com.
GradAisle cannot provide legal or immigration advice. Contact your university DSO or a qualified immigration attorney. For product help, see Support.