Optional Practical Training (OPT)
As a way to more fully understand your new learning environment, you may want to consider getting a job during your stay.
Employment is a benefit granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to eligible F-1 visa students who have been in good academic standing and have not violated any F-1 status rules and regulations. You should always consult an International Student Advisor first to check your eligibility before searching for a job.
Off-Campus Employment
There are a few different type of work opportunities you can engage in as an international student:
Practical Training
Practical training is defined as work experience in the student’s major field of study that can be conducted off-campus. Two types of practical training are available to international students: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is employment that allows international students to apply their classroom knowledge in a work environment. This training must be directly related to your major field of study. There are two types of OPT: pre-completion OPT and post-competition OPT. Students are allowed 12 months of OPT for each degree level.
Eligibility:
Pre-Completion OPT:
- Maintained F-1 Visa status for one full academic year, within 90 days of doing so
- Have not worked for 12 months or more with full-time CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
- Part-time CPT does not affect OPT
Post-Completion OPT:
- Must apply between 90 days before graduation date and 60 days after graduation date (with an associate degree)
- Graduation date is the day that you complete your final degree requirement
- Have not worked for 12 months or more with full-time CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
- Part-time CPT does not affect OPT
How to Apply to OPT:
Post-Completion OPT:
- File for graduation with academic counselor (need associate degree)
- Complete the OPT Request Form with an academic counselor
- Collect and complete all required documents (see below)
- Receive a new I-20 from ISC Advisor
- Mail OPT packet to USCIS office (between 90 days before your graduation and 60 days after your graduation)
- Receive work authorization
Application Documents:
- Form I-765: https://www.uscis.gov/
- Application fee ($410.00)
- Make check to U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Form G-1145: https://www.uscis.gov/
- Copies of ALL I-20’s issued to you (first and second page), including the new OPT I-20
- Copy of passport identification page
- Copy of F-1 visa
- Copy of I-94: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
- Recent passport photos with name and I-94 number written on the back
- Photocopy of previously issued EAD (if any)
Mailing the OPT Application:
- Pick up OPT packet with your new OPT I-20
- Include all documents from the application checklist
- Mail your OPT application to USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765-addresses. Make sure to click on “Foreign Students” on the accordion drop-down and look at OPT.
After Applying:
- Wait 3-5 months for response
- Track status of OPT status on USCIS website: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do
- After your application is processed, you will receive your approval notice and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) & Social Security card (if applicable)
Responsibilities While on OPT:
- Report Employment
- Create your SEVP portal account
- Use the SEVP portal to report your employment
- Report Unemployment
- Only 90 days of allowable unemployment
- If you use all unemployment days, you should transfer out, change status or leave the U.S.
- Field of Study
- All employment must be in your field of study.
- You must be able to explain the relation between employment and field of study
Employment Responsibilities:
- Post-Completion OPT
- Work at least 20 hours per week
- Multiple jobs are acceptable (all in your field of study)
- Self-employment is acceptable as long as you have a proper business license, tax ID number and keep records
- International Travel with OPT
- Must maintain F-1 Visa status
- Required documents:
- Valid F-1 visa
- I-20 with travel signature (signature valid for 6 months while on OPT)
- Employment authorization card (EAD)
- Proof of employment recommended (letter from employer)
- Should I Travel while OPT is Pending:
- Very risky & not recommended
- Will need EAD card to re-enter the U.S
After OPT Ends:
- Post-Completion OPT
- You have a 60-day grace period
- Things you can do during this grace period:
- Transfer out to another U.S school
- Prepare to leave the U.S
- Change visa status (if applicable)