|
Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a benefit available to international
students who have maintained F-1 status for at least one academic
year. OPT is a period when students can work in fields directly
related to their studies.
The OPT may be used either before or after a student completes a
program of study.
When can I participate in OPT?
International students have 12 months of OPT which may be used in
a series of combinations permitted by the regulations, as follows:
- During summer vacation (part-time or full-time)
- During a regular term (part-time only)
- After completion of all coursework with only thesis or dissertation
left for completion (full-time only)
- After completion of a degree program (full-time only)
Please note that:
- Students must apply for OPT before graduation or completion of
studies.
- OPT must not end more than 14 months after completion
of studies or graduation.
- OPT can be part-time or full-time. Part time OPT will count half
against the 12 months limit, i.e., two months of part-time OPT
equals one month full-time.
- A student who has used 12 months of OPT is eligible for another
12 months after changing to a higher education level.
When should I apply for OPT?
You must plan ahead when applying for OPT:
- You should apply at least 3 months before you intend to start
working, but you must apply before completing your studies or graduating.
- Students are not required to have a job offer in order to apply
for this benefit.
- OPT time counts whether the student has a job or not.
- Once it has been granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS) OPT cannot be cancelled.
- Graduate students who complete all the degree requirements early
in their graduating semester must apply for OPT before completing
degree requirements.
- No employment should commence nor should students depart from
the United States before having their employment card in hand.
- Students who depart the United States during OPT can reenter the United States to resume employment only. Students on OPT who do not have a job cannot reenter the United States.
What do I need to apply for OPT?
You will need:
- Your current I-20
- Passport - valid for at least 6 months into the future and most recent visa page
- I-94 (original)
- I-765 (Question 16 should be coded (c) (3) (i))
- OPT certification form signed by your advisor
- Two passport type pictures with small envelope
- Any previously issued EAD
- $ 340 check made payable to: United States Citizenship
and Immigration Service (USCIS)
|
