F-1 visa students in the US have a great opportunity to obtain real-world work experience in their field of study through OPT (Optional Practical Training). In this essay, we go over the specifics of OPT, such as qualifying requirements, the application procedure, and crucial factors for international students looking for work after graduation.
What Is Optional Practical Training?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows F-1 visa students in the United States to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study. Here’s a detailed explanation of OPT for F-1 students:
Purpose
OPT gives F-1 students the chance to use the information and abilities they have learned in school in practical job situations. It enables them to improve their knowledge of the American labor market and obtain worthwhile professional experience.
Eligibility
F-1 students can apply for OPT after completing at least one academic year of full-time study. They must be in valid F-1 status and intend to work in a position directly related to their major field of study.
Types of OPT
There are two types of OPT available to F-1 students:
- Pre-completion OPT**: Students can engage in pre-completion OPT while still enrolled in their academic program. This enables students to work full-time during the formal school breaks and part-time during the academic year.
- Post-completion OPT**: Post-completion OPT is available for F-1 students who have completed or will soon complete their degree program. It allows them to work full-time in their field of study for up to 12 months.
Application Process
F-1 students must apply for OPT through their academic institution’s designated school official (DSO). The application process involves completing Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), obtaining a recommendation from the DSO, and submitting the required documentation to USCIS.
Duration
F-1 students can engage in a maximum of 12 months of full-time OPT at each degree level (e.g., bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate). Pre-completion OPT usage subtracts from the total available post-completion OPT period.
Extension for STEM Students
The STEM OPT extension is a 24-month extension of the post-completion OPT period that may be available to F-1 students with degrees in specific STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
Employment Restrictions
During their OPT, F-1 students are required to work in a job directly related to their major. Additionally, they must keep their F-1 status and notify their DSO of any changes to their address or work.
For F-1 students, OPT is a great way to obtain real-world work experience in the US and improve their chances of landing a job after graduation. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and employment laws, students may easily make the most of their OPT experience and transition into the workforce.
How To Apply for OPT
Applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) as an F-1 student involves several steps and requires coordination between the student, their designated school official (DSO), and USCIS. Here’s a detailed explanation of how an F-1 student applies for OPT:
1. Eligibility Verification
Before applying for OPT, the F-1 student must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements. This includes completing at least one academic year of full-time study in the United States and maintaining valid F-1 status.
2. Attend the OPT Information Session
Many academic institutions offer OPT information sessions or workshops to educate students about the application process, requirements, and important considerations. The DSO often recommends or requires attendance at these sessions.
3. Request OPT Recommendation from DSO
The F-1 student must request a recommendation for OPT from their designated school official (DSO). The DSO will review the student’s academic record, verify their eligibility for OPT, and issue a new Form I-20 with the OPT recommendation endorsed.
4. Prepare Application Materials
The F-1 student must gather the necessary documentation and complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), which serves as the application for OPT. Required documents may include:
- Completed Form I-765.
- Copy of the new Form I-20 with OPT recommendation.
- Copies of previous Forms I-20.
- Passport identification page.
- Visa stamp (if applicable).
- Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
- Two passport-style photos meet USCIS specifications.
- Optional: Form G-1145 (E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance) for electronic notification of application acceptance.
5. Submit Application to USCIS
The F-1 student must mail the completed Form I-765, supporting documentation, and the required filing fee to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility. Using the correct mailing address and including all necessary components is essential to avoid processing delays.
6. Await USCIS Processing
After submitting the OPT application, the F-1 student must wait for USCIS to process the application. In addition to providing a case number for tracking purposes, USCIS will send out a receipt note to verify receipt of the application.
7. Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)
In some cases, USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment for the F-1 student to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. The student must attend this appointment as scheduled.
8. Receive Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Once USCIS approves the OPT application, they will issue an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the OPT card. The EAD will specify the dates of the approved OPT period.
9. Report Employment and Address Updates
While on OPT, the F-1 student is responsible for reporting any changes in employment or address to their DSO within 10 days of the change. Failure to report changes timely may result in adverse consequences for the student’s immigration status.
By following these steps and adhering to USCIS guidelines, F-1 students can successfully apply for OPT and gain valuable practical work experience in the United States.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) Explained
Navigating Optional Practical Training (OPT) as an F-1 student is a pivotal step toward professional growth and career advancement in the United States. Students can leverage this valuable opportunity to gain practical work experience and enhance their prospects in the competitive job market by understanding the application process, eligibility requirements, and responsibilities associated with OPT.