Understanding Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

Home > Understanding Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

If you’re an F-1 student in the United States, you may be eligible to participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT).

OPT allows for temporary employment directly related to your major field of study, enabling you to gain valuable work experience while still pursuing your education or after completing your academic program. Here’s an overview of what OPT involves and how you can apply.

 

I am Patricia Perisse Bochi, an immigration attorney in Miami, Florida, with 20 years of experience in immigration law. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to help clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration, from F-1 students exploring OPT opportunities to individuals and families facing a variety of immigration challenges. My goal is to provide clear guidance and practical advice to help you successfully understand and manage your immigration process.

 

A common question among international students is whether they are allowed to work during their studies.

 

OPT is a program that allows F-1 students to work in areas related to their field of study for up to 12 months. Students can apply for OPT either before completing their academic program, called Pre-completion OPT, or after completing it, called Post-completion OPT. One important caveat is that any Pre-completion OPT period you engage in will be deducted from the available Post-completion OPT period.

 

Pre-completion OPT is designed for eligible students who can apply after being lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year at a college, university, conservatory, or seminary certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While school is in session, the student may work up to 20 hours per week.

 

Post-completion OPT is designed for students who can apply after finishing their studies. For this type of OPT, the student must work part-time (at least 20 hours per week) or full-time.

 

As mentioned earlier, if a student used Pre-completion OPT, this will reduce the duration of Post-completion OPT at the same educational level: For instance, if a student completed 1 year of part-time Pre-completion OPT, the total amount of full-time OPT available will be reduced by 6 months. Furthermore, if the student completed 1 year of full-time Pre-completion OPT, the total amount of full-time OPT available will be reduced by 1 year, leaving no available period for Post-completion OPT.

 

Students with a degree in certain Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields can apply for a 24-month extension of Post-completion OPT. To qualify, the student must have a degree included in the STEM Designated Degree Program List, be employed by an E-Verify-enrolled employer, and have received an initial grant of Post-completion OPT based on their STEM degree.

 

How to Apply for OPT: The student must request OPT recommendation from their Designated School Official (DSO).

 

The DSO will recommend OPT by endorsing Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, and entering the recommendation into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

 

Next, the student must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the required fee and supporting documents.

 

When to Apply: The timeline for applying depends on whether the degree is STEM or non-STEM and whether the student is applying for Pre-completion OPT, Post-completion OPT, or a STEM OPT extension.

 

STEM Degree:

  • Pre-completion OPT: Apply up to 90 days before completing a full academic year but do not start OPT work until you’ve completed one full academic year.

 

  • Post-completion OPT: Apply within 30 days of your DSO’s recommendation in SEVIS, but no later than 60 days after completing your degree.

 

  • STEM OPT Extension: Apply within 60 days of your DSO’s recommendation in SEVIS and up to 90 days before your current OPT expires.

 

Non-STEM Degree:

  • Pre-completion OPT: Similar to STEM, apply up to 90 days before completing a full academic year but do not start until the academic year is completed.

 

  • Post-completion OPT: Apply within 30 days of your DSO’s recommendation in SEVIS and up to 90 days before completing your degree, but no later than 60 days afterward.

 

The student cannot start OPT work until Form I-765 is approved, and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is received.

 

If you need assistance navigating the OPT application process or have questions about your eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact our office. By understanding your options and following the correct application procedures, you can make the most of your OPT experience and gain valuable professional experience in the U.S. related to your field of study.

 

Our Head Attorney

PATRÍCIA PÉRISSÉ BOCHI, ESQ

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