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This document provides information about Optional Practical Training for F-1 students at California State University, East Bay, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and frequently

How to fill out optional practical training

How to fill out Optional Practical Training

1. Determine your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) based on your current visa status.
2. Consult your Designated School Official (DSO) to get guidance on your OPT application process.
3. Complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
4. Gather required documentation, including a copy of your Form I-20, passport, and visa.
5. Pay the required application fee, as specified on the USCIS website.
6. Mail your completed application, including all supporting documents and fee payment, to the appropriate USCIS service center.
7. Await receipt of Form I-797, Notice of Action, indicating that USCIS has received your application.
8. Monitor the status of your application through the USCIS website.
9. Upon approval, receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and start applying for jobs.

Who needs Optional Practical Training?

1. International students in the U.S. on F-1 visas who wish to gain practical work experience related to their field of study.
2. Students who have completed at least one academic year of their program and are in good standing with their academic institution.
3. Graduates who want to continue working in the U.S. after completing their studies.

People Also Ask about

Why would my OPT be denied?

Degree Mismatch: Submitting an OPT application for a degree level already used for OPT. Insufficient F-1 Status: Not meeting the one-year F-1 requirement due to SEVIS ID changes or breaks in status. Incomplete or Incorrect Materials: Missing or outdated forms, improperly filled-out I-765, or invalid payment methods.

Can I apply for OPT again if I was denied?

If you receive notice of the denial before your 60 day grace period expires, you may reapply for OPT but will need to resubmit all application materials again, including a new OPT Recommendation from OIA and the filing fee. The 2nd application will also be subject to the same standard processing times.

What makes you ineligible for OPT?

You can work on CPT either full-time or part-time. CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer. If you have 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are ineligible for OPT, but part-time CPT is fine and will not stop you from doing OPT.

Why is OPT rejected?

A top reason for OPT rejections is failing to apply within the 30-day window after the Designated School Official (DSO) issues your OPT-recommended I-20. Students often overlook this deadline, thinking it aligns with their degree end date.

How long can I stay after OPT denial?

If post-completion OPT is denied, the student's F-1 status expires 60 days from the date the degree program ends or the date of the denial, whichever is later. However, if the application is denied because the student failed to maintain F-1 status, they must immediately depart the United States.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Optional Practical Training?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization available to certain F-1 visa international students in the United States, allowing them to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their academic program.

Who is required to file Optional Practical Training?

F-1 visa students who wish to engage in practical training after graduation or during their studies are required to file for Optional Practical Training. This typically includes students who are nearing completion of their degree programs.

How to fill out Optional Practical Training?

To fill out the Optional Practical Training application, students must complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), gather the necessary supporting documents such as Form I-20, passport-sized photos, and a filing fee, and submit the application packet to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

What is the purpose of Optional Practical Training?

The purpose of Optional Practical Training is to provide international students the opportunity to gain work experience in their field of study, enhancing their education and increasing their employability upon returning to their home countries or pursuing further opportunities in the U.S.

What information must be reported on Optional Practical Training?

Students must report their employer information, job title, duties, start and end dates of employment, and any changes in their employment status while on OPT. This information is essential for maintaining their F-1 visa status.