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This document outlines the process for F-1 visa students to apply for optional practical training (OPT), detailing eligibility, application requirements, and guidelines for employment authorization.

How to fill out optional practical training for

How to fill out Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa

1. Obtain Form I-20 from your school, indicating your eligibility for OPT.
2. Complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
3. Gather necessary documents: passport, visa, Form I-20, I-94, and passport-sized photos.
4. Prepare a check or money order for the filing fee made out to 'U.S. Department of Homeland Security.'
5. Mail your completed Form I-765, documents, and payment to the appropriate USCIS address.
6. After mailing, track the status of your application using the USCIS website.
7. Wait for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which will inform you when you can start working.

Who needs Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

1. International students on an F-1 visa who wish to gain practical work experience in their field of study after completing their degree.
2. Students who have completed at least one academic year of study and meet eligibility criteria set by USCIS.

People Also Ask about

Should I do CPT or OPT?

OPT can be completed before or after graduation, while CPT must be completed before graduation. CPT employment is part of your major curriculum that allows students to work in a paid or unpaid internship, practicum, or cooperative (co-op) education program.

What is optional practical training for F-1 visa?

Overview. OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a benefit available to international students in F-1 immigration status who are enrolled in, or completing, a degree program in the United States. This employment can be used: Before completion of studies during an annual vacation or leave term.

What is the 14 month rule for OPT?

A student may not request a start date that is more than 60 days after the student's program end date. A student must complete all practical training within a 14-month period following the completion of study.

How long is optional practical training?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is 12-month work authorization available to F-1 international students who have been full-time students for at least two consecutive semesters and plan to seek employment in the United States in their fields of study. Looking for information about the 24-month STEM OPT Extension?

Is OPT still in F-1 status?

During your program of study, your status is based on your program start and end dates. Once on OPT, your status is now based on your OPT start and end dates (as found on your EAD). It is important to follow the rules of OPT so you can continue to maintain your F-1 visa status.

Is English proficiency required for an F-1 visa?

You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution. You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency. You must have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study.

What is F-1 optional practical training?

Optional practical training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study.

Who is eligible for F-1 OPT?

To be eligible for OPT, a student: Must have maintained F-1 status for a minimum of one academic year (i.e., two consecutive academic semesters). Must have confirmed eligibility for graduation with their academic department/unit prior to initiating the OPT application process.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows students on an F-1 visa to work in the United States for a limited period of time to gain practical experience in their field of study.

Who is required to file Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

Students on an F-1 visa who wish to participate in OPT must file for it through their designated school official (DSO) and submit the required application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How to fill out Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

To fill out the OPT application, students need to complete Form I-765, provide necessary documentation such as a copy of their I-20 form, passport, and a passport-sized photo, and pay the application fee.

What is the purpose of Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

The purpose of OPT is to allow F-1 visa students to gain work experience directly related to their major field of study, enhancing their academic experience and improving their employability after graduation.

What information must be reported on Optional Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa?

Students must report their job offer details, including the name and address of the employer, position title, start date, and any changes in employment status or personal information to their DSO.