F-1, J-1 & OPT Legal Advice
Your university's international office does essential work, but it advises on school policy and generally cannot give you individual legal advice. We can. Our attorney went through the F-1 process herself and spent nine years inside university international offices, so she understands both sides.
Who this is for
We help if:
- You are on an F-1 or J-1 visa and have a question your campus office cannot answer.
- You need help with OPT or STEM OPT strategy, timing, or a filing.
- You fell out of status, or you are worried you might, and need real advice.
- You are weighing what comes after graduation and want an honest, private read.
How we help
Our attorney provides individual legal advice on:
- Maintaining status, reinstatement, and school transfers.
- OPT and STEM OPT filing strategy and document review.
- Options after graduation, including work visas and green card paths.
- A confidential place to ask the questions you cannot ask on campus.
What to expect
Getting help is simple:
- Book a Students and Scholars consultation, by video or phone.
- Tell us your situation; we give you a clear, honest read on your options.
- If a filing makes sense, we help you prepare and file it correctly.
- You leave knowing your next step and where you stand.
Am I eligible? (coming soon)
We are building a quick, private tool to help you gauge whether you may be eligible, right here on this page. It is not ready yet. In the meantime, the surest way to find out is a confidential consultation, where we look at your specific situation and tell you honestly where you stand.
Free 15-min consultationFrequently Asked Questions
Why not just ask my school's international office?
Your international office is valuable, but it represents the school and advises on school policy. It generally cannot give you individual legal advice about your own case. That is what an attorney is for.
I think I fell out of status. What should I do?
Talk to us quickly and confidentially. Some situations can be fixed with reinstatement or another approach, but timing matters, so do not wait.
Can you help with OPT even though my school handles the recommendation?
Yes. Your school issues the OPT recommendation, but we can advise on timing, strategy, and reviewing your application so it is filed correctly.
Get advice your campus office cannot give
Book a Students and Scholars consultation. It is confidential, and our attorney has been through this process herself.
Free 15-min consultation