The Ultimate Optional Practical Training (OPT) Guide for International Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a provision that allows individuals with F-1 student visas to engage in work during or after completing their academic program in the United States.

While the majority of international students are eligible for a standard 12-month OPT period, those in STEM fields have the option to extend their authorization for an additional 24 months.

The process of navigating OPT employment authorization can be intricate, particularly for students in a foreign country.

However, armed with the right information, F-1 visa holders can adequately prepare for and successfully apply for OPT status in the United States.

Understanding Optional Practical Training (OPT)

International students who seek employment opportunities while studying in the United States must meet practical training requirements aligned with their F-1 status and visa regulations.

Practical training can take the form of internships, work-study programs, or jobs directly related to their field of study, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

There are two primary types of career development training for F-1 visa holders:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT), an integral part of the program to be completed before graduation.
• Optional Practical Training, which can occur either before or after graduation.

Different Types of OPT

There are four main types of OPT available:

• Pre-Completion OPT: This involves part- or full-time OPT used before the program’s completion.
• Post-Completion OPT: This involves part- or full-time OPT used after the program’s completion.
• 24-month (STEM) OPT Extension: This provides an additional two years for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) majors.
• Cap-Gap OPT Extension: This is for students whose prospective employers have filed qualifying H-1B-cap subject petitions.

However, these are relatively rare due to employer restrictions on filing for H-1B status on behalf of their employees.

It is imperative to check your university’s OPT policies, as some institutions may impose restrictions on full-time pre-completion OPT.

Benefits of OPT Visa

Similar to CPT, OPT requires that practical training directly aligns with the student’s major.

The Designated School Official (DSO) reviews and recommends OPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), subsequently updating the official I-20 form.

In contrast to CPT, OPT is more flexible, making it appealing to students considering post-graduate work or internships outside their curriculum.

Eligibility for an OPT Visa

OPT is available for international students on F-1 visas for 12 months at each level of higher learning.

An additional 12 months of OPT authorization becomes available when starting a new program at a higher educational level.

Undergraduate students may reset their OPT eligibility if they continue their education by entering graduate school in the U.S.

To qualify, international students must meet specific criteria, including being enrolled full time, having been a student for at least one year, and ensuring that the OPT aligns with their major.

Qualifying for a 24-Month STEM Extension

Students with eligible Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) degrees may qualify for a one-time 24-month extension of post-completion OPT.

To be eligible, they must have post-completion OPT status, have not received any extensions based on a qualifying STEM degree, graduated within the last 10 years, attended a SEVIS-certified school accredited by the U.S. Department of Education, and have an employer in the E-Verify program.

Application Process for Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States involves a systematic process that allows F-1 visa holders to gain valuable work experience aligned with their field of study.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the OPT application process:

Request OPT with your DSO:

Be proactive in initiating the OPT application process by approaching your Designated School Official (DSO).

Before you start, familiarize yourself with your school’s policies regarding OPT requests. Your DSO plays a crucial role in guiding you through the process.

DSO recommends OPT:

Once you’ve expressed your intention to pursue OPT, your DSO will assess your eligibility for work authorization.

Upon confirmation, your DSO will update your Form I-20, sign it, and change your OPT request status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to “requested.”

File your I-765:

The next crucial step is filing Form I-765, which serves as your official application for employment authorization.

This form must be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days of your DSO’s OPT recommendation. Ensure you include the required application fee and any supporting documentation.

USCIS approves your application:

Following the submission of your application, USCIS will review and process your OPT request. If approved, you will be issued an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

At this point, your application status in SEVIS will transition from “Pending” to “Approved.”

Start work:

As soon as you receive your EAD and your authorized work start date arrives, you are permitted to commence your new training position.

If you have not yet secured employment, it is essential to promptly report your employer information to your DSO upon receiving and accepting a job offer.

DSO records employment information:

Your DSO is responsible for updating SEVIS with crucial employment information, including any changes to your name or address.

This information must be recorded within 21 days of the commencement of your OPT employment.

Important Notes:

• The application timeline for post-completion OPT certification is limited to the period 90 days before graduation to 60 days after graduation, according to USCIS regulations.
• Adhering to your university’s OPT policies and USCIS deadlines is crucial to ensuring a smooth application process.
• Any delay in filing your Form I-765 or failure to submit it within the specified timeframe may result in the cancellation of your application.

By following these steps diligently and staying informed about your university’s guidelines, you can navigate the OPT application process successfully and embark on a rewarding professional experience in the United States.

Cost of OPT Visa

A fee is associated with filing the I-765 application for employment authorization with the U.S. federal government.

While additional biometric fees may apply, they typically do not impact F-1 student visa holders.

Recommended Read:

USA F1 Visa Interview Question And Requirements

Additional Information

Getting OPT approval can be a time-consuming process. Therefore, it is crucial to submit applications as early as possible.

Applying 90 days before graduation is often recommended, as this is the earliest allowable date. Processing times can vary, and applying promptly ensures no loss of OPT eligibility due to delays or documentation issues.

For queries about OPT international student employment requirements, CPT eligibility, or the OPT visa process, knowledgeable counselors are available to provide answers.

Get in touch with your future counselor

FAQS

FAQ: Can I apply for OPT without a job offer?

Answer: Yes, you can obtain OPT certification first and then search for jobs while the government reviews your request.

2. FAQ: What is the cost of filing Form I-765?

Answer: There is a fee for filing the I-765 application for employment authorization with the US federal government.

3. FAQ: Can I apply for OPT after graduation?

Answer: Yes, post-completion OPT certification is available within 90 days before graduation to 60 days after graduation, according to USCIS regulations.