If you’re an international student studying in the United States on an F1 visa, you may have heard about the opportunity to work in the U.S. after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a valuable benefit that allows F1 visa holders to gain hands-on work experience in their field of study. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about OPT: eligibility, application process, different types of OPT, and how to maintain your F1 status while on OPT.
1. Introduction to F1 Student Visa OPT
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a work authorization program that lets international students on an F1 visa work in the United States for up to 12 months, or more if eligible, in a job related to their major. This work experience enhances what you’ve learned during your academic studies and can be invaluable for your career.
Why is OPT important?
OPT provides a chance to gain real-world experience in your field, which can give you a competitive edge when seeking future employment. It’s an excellent opportunity for international students to showcase their skills to U.S. employers and potentially transition into longer-term employment options like an H-1B visa.
Pre-Completion vs. Post-Completion OPT
There are two types of OPT:
Pre-Completion OPT allows you to work part-time during your studies.
Post-Completion OPT is for after you graduate and allows full-time employment for up to 12 months.
2. OPT Eligibility Requirements
Who is eligible for OPT?
You must meet the following criteria to qualify for OPT:
- Be an F1 student in good standing, enrolled full-time in a degree program for at least one academic year.
- Apply for OPT during your program of study or within 60 days after completing your program (for Post-Completion OPT).
- Your work must be directly related to your major field of study.
Maintaining F1 Status:
While applying for OPT, you need to maintain your F1 status. This means that you must have a valid I-20 (the document that certifies your enrollment in the U.S.), and your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) must recommend your OPT application. The DSO will also update your SEVIS record to reflect your OPT request.
3. Types of OPT & Application Process
Pre-Completion OPT
Pre-Completion OPT lets you work while you’re still in school, but the hours are limited. You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. The total number of months you can use for Pre-Completion OPT is subtracted from your total available OPT time after graduation.
Post-Completion OPT
Post-completion OPT is the most common option for students who want to work after finishing their degree. It allows you to work full-time for up to 12 months. You can apply for OPT up to 90 days before completing your program, and your application must be received by USCIS within 60 days of completing your studies.
24-Month STEM OPT Extension
If you have a degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics), you may qualify for a 24-month extension of your Post-Completion OPT. This gives you a total of 36 months to work in the U.S. under OPT.
Cap-Gap Extension
The Cap-Gap Extension applies to students whose OPT expires before transitioning to an H-1B visa. This extension allows you to stay in the U.S. and continue working until your H-1B petition is processed.
4. OPT Application Process & Required Documents
When to Apply for OPT
For Post-Completion OPT, you can apply up to 90 days before your graduation date and no later than 60 days after graduation. For Pre-Completion OPT, you must apply well before the start date of your desired work period.
Required Documents
To apply for OPT, you will need the following:
- A completed Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- A copy of your I-20 signed by your DSO
- A passport-sized photo
- A copy of your passport, visa, and previous I-20s
- A check or money order for the application fee
You can submit your application by paper or online, but online submission is usually faster. Once your application is processed, USCIS will send you a receipt notice (I-797 Notice of Action).
5. USCIS Processing & Timelines
Processing Times
Once you’ve submitted your OPT application, USCIS can process your request for up to 90 days. It may take even longer if you’re applying for the STEM extension. You’ll receive a receipt notice (Form I-797) confirming your application, which you can use to track the status of your OPT application online.
Request for Evidence (RFE)
In some cases, USCIS may request additional documents or clarification regarding your application. This is called a Request for Evidence (RFE). If you receive an RFE, make sure to respond promptly to avoid delays in your application.
6. Employment Rules & Reporting Requirements
What Types of Employment are Allowed?
OPT employment must be directly related to your field of study. You can work for multiple employers, but each job must be related to your degree program. The work can be paid or unpaid, but it must meet certain criteria to qualify as legitimate OPT employment.
You must report your employer’s information to your DSO and update your OPT employment status regularly in SEVIS. If you change employers, you must inform your DSO within 10 days of the change.
Unpaid Employment
You can work in unpaid positions as long as the work is directly related to your field of study.
7. Understanding the 24-Month STEM OPT Extension
Who is Eligible for the 24-Month STEM OPT Extension?
Students who hold degrees in certain STEM fields are eligible for the 24-month extension, which allows them to work in the U.S. for a total of 36 months. Your degree program must be included in the DHS’s list of approved STEM fields to qualify.
How to Apply?
You must file a new Form I-765 to request the STEM OPT extension. Additionally, you need to provide proof of your degree, a valid employer, and your compliance with OPT reporting requirements.
8. Maintaining F-1 Status During OPT
Unemployment Limits
During OPT, you are allowed a maximum of 90 days of unemployment. If you exceed this limit, you risk losing your F-1 status. It is crucial to keep track of your employment and update your records.
Changes in Immigration Status
If your OPT is denied, you must ensure you are still maintaining legal status. Consult your school’s international student office for guidance on how to proceed.
9. International Travel & OPT
Traveling While on OPT
If you plan to travel internationally during your OPT period, you must have a valid passport, an F-1 visa, and an EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card. You may also need a travel signature from your DSO.
Traveling while your OPT application is pending or after the 60-day grace period can be risky, as it may impact your OPT status.
10. Common OPT Challenges & Solutions
Delays and Issues
The OPT application process can sometimes be delayed due to missing documents, incorrect forms, or other issues. Always double-check your paperwork before submission.
If your OPT is approved but you encounter employment issues, it’s important to maintain communication with your DSO and seek legal guidance if needed.
11. Additional Considerations & Resources
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) vs. OPT
CPT and OPT both allow students to work in the U.S., but they serve different purposes. CPT is generally used for internships or cooperative education programs, while OPT is designed for post-graduation employment. Full-time CPT may impact your OPT eligibility, so it’s important to consult your DSO about the best options.
Social Security Number (SSN)
If you haven’t already obtained a Social Security Number (SSN), you’ll need one for tax purposes while working on OPT. You can apply for an SSN once your OPT is approved.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is important during your OPT period. Many universities offer student health insurance plans but ensure your insurance covers you during your OPT.
12. Conclusion & Next Steps
OPT provides F1 students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in their field. You can make the most out of your OPT period by staying informed about the application process, eligibility, and compliance requirements. Whether you’re planning to transition to an H-1B visa or return to your home country, OPT is an essential step in launching your career in the U.S.
Make sure to stay compliant with the rules, maintain proper documentation, and seek help from your DSO when needed to ensure your time on OPT is successful.
For better guidelines contact us with Raj Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start working as soon as I apply for OPT?
Answer: No. You can only start working once you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card from USCIS and the start date on the card has arrived. You must wait for official approval.
Can I change employers during OPT?
Answer: Yes, you can change employers during OPT, but you must ensure your new job is related to your field of study. You must also report your new employer information to your school’s International Student Office.
Can I travel internationally while on OPT?
Answer: Traveling outside the U.S. while on OPT is possible, but it comes with risks. If you leave the U.S., you may have difficulty re-entering, especially if your OPT authorization is still pending. It’s best to consult with your DSO before making travel plans.
What happens if my OPT application is denied?
Answer: If your OPT application is denied, you will not be able to work. You may have to leave the U.S. unless you can apply for a different visa status or resolve the issue with USCIS. Working with your DSO for guidance on the next step is essential.
