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This document outlines the regulations and application process for international graduate students on an F-1 visa to apply for optional practical training (OPT) related to their field of study.

How to fill out optional practical training for

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

1. Determine eligibility: Confirm that you are an F-1 student in good academic standing who has completed at least one full academic year.
2. Consult your Designated School Official (DSO): Discuss your intention to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) with them.
3. Complete Form I-765: Fill out the Application for Employment Authorization form with accurate personal and program information.
4. Prepare required documents: Gather necessary materials including a copy of your I-20, passport, visa, and previous employment authorization documents if applicable.
5. Submit your application: Send the completed Form I-765 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS service center according to the instructions provided.
6. Pay the application fee: Include the required fee payment with your application as instructed on the USCIS website.
7. Receive receipt notice: After application submission, wait for a receipt notice from USCIS confirming that your application is being processed.
8. Await approval: Monitor the status of your application and be prepared to respond to any requests for additional information.

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

1. International students on an F-1 visa who wish to gain practical experience in their field of study.
2. Students who have completed a degree program and want to work in the U.S. for a limited period post-graduation.
3. Those seeking to enhance their resumes and gain skills relevant to their academic and career goals.

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.

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.

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 F-1 optional practical training?

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. After completion of studies

What are the benefits of OPT?

OPT offers temporary employment authorization to international students in the United States, allowing eligible students and recent graduates to gain valuable work experience within their field of study.

Is English proficiency required for an F-1 visa?

Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement. 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.

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.

What makes you ineligible for OPT?

Full-time CPT for 12 months can lead to OPT rejection Using full-time CPT for one year cancels out OPT eligibility for this particular degree level. Students must ensure that they use CPT for no more than 11 months or part-time CPT to avoid being rejected for OPT after graduation.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

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

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows F-1 visa graduate students to work in the United States for up to 12 months after completing their degree, or for 24 months if they qualify for STEM OPT extension.

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

Graduate students on an F-1 visa who wish to work in the U.S. after their studies must file for Optional Practical Training. This applies to those who have completed their degree or have been in continuous enrollment for at least one academic year.

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

To fill out OPT applications, students must complete Form I-765, provide supporting documents such as the I-20 form, passport, and photographs, and submit the application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

The purpose of OPT is to provide F-1 visa students the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application in a work environment.

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

Students must report their job offer, employer details, work location, and any changes in their employment status during the OPT period. They must also maintain communication with their Designated School Official (DSO).