I recently graduated from a U.S. college with a bachelor’s degree. I am now working pursuant to OPT. I am interested in taking some online graduate level courses offered by another university. …

… I am planning to enroll in one or two such classes without a specific academic objective.  These classes will simply help me to have a better knowledge in my area of employment.

Answer

Unfortunately, there is no clear policy guidance on whether an F-1 student who is working pursuant to OPT can also engage in study. What is clear, however, is that a student on OPT should not enroll in another academic program of study as this would require a transfer of his or her SEVIS record which will result in the termination of the OPT authorization. However, taking occasional classes which are not part of a specific academic program should be permissible. (31.Mar.2014)

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