To join the MOVE Fellowship, you must currently be based in the U.S. and have valid U.S. work authorization.
A Social Security Number (SSN) is required. You may participate in educational activities around the program in a volunteer capacity while you wait to obtain your SSN. However, Handshake AI cannot issue an offer letter until you are formally accepted into the fellowship—a decision that will be influenced by your performance on the practice tasks.
Below is a guide to how different types of work authorization align with our program.
Important: If you're unsure about your eligibility, we recommend connecting with your DSO to ensure the MOVE Fellowship is the right fit for you.
Topics:
- CPT
- OPT (Current Students)
- OPT / STEM OPT (Graduates)
CPT (Curricular Practical Training) – Current Students
CPT is a great fit for the MOVE Fellowship, as all projects are remote, part-time, and stay under 20 hours per week.
If you're accepted into the program:
- Confirm participation with your DSO (Designated School Official) before starting any work.
- CPT is usually tied to your semester or quarter, so you’ll likely need to renew it each term.
Tip: When you connect with your DSO, mention that the MOVE Fellowship is short-term, fully remote, and part-time—this can help streamline the approval process!
OPT (Optional Practical Training) – Current Students
Current students on OPT can participate in the MOVE Fellowship.
If accepted:
- Check with your DSO to confirm that this type of project fits within your approved OPT work.
- Be sure to stay within your OPT time limits and reporting requirements.
OPT / STEM OPT – Graduates
At this time, the MOVE Fellowship may not be a good fit for graduates on post-completion OPT or STEM OPT who are looking for long-term or full-time work.
Why? We do not currently offer full-time roles or projects exceeding 20 hours/week.
You're still welcome to apply, and we’ll keep your information on file in case program requirements change in the future.
FAQs
My school limits remote work to 40%—can I still join? The MOVE Fellowship is a fully remote program, so it may not meet your school’s in-person participation rules.
I'm not ready to provide documents before starting—can I still apply? We understand your hesitation. However, to stay compliant with U.S. laws, we must collect a signed onboarding agreement and proof of work authorization before we can compensate you. If you're still waiting on documents (e.g., a visa or green card), feel free to apply when you're ready!
If you’ve previously applied and have your documents ready, contact us and let us know!
Can I get a DSO offer letter before I’m accepted into the MOVE Fellowship? At this time, we’re only able to provide DSO letters or offer documentation after a candidate has been accepted into the MOVE Fellowship and invited to participate in a project. If you're on a visa or require work authorization approval, you’re welcome to apply to the program. Once accepted, we’ll be happy to provide documentation (like a DSO letter) for your school or program
Still Have Questions?
If you're unsure about your eligibility, we recommend connecting with your DSO. They can help clarify your specific situation and let you know whether the MOVE Fellowship is the right fit for you.
We’re excited to welcome fellows from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. If anything’s unclear, don’t hesitate to reach out!