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This document outlines the procedures and requirements for F1 students at Nassau Community College to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain work experience in their field of study. It

How to fill out optional practical training application

How to fill out Optional Practical Training Application

1. Gather required documents: Prepare your passport, I-20 form, and any previous Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) if applicable.
2. Complete Form I-765: Fill out the application form for employment authorization, ensuring to select the appropriate category for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
3. Write a personal statement: Include a brief statement explaining how the requested employment is related to your field of study.
4. Pay the application fee: Include a check or money order for the required fee made out to 'Department of Homeland Security.'
5. Compile your application packet: Assemble the completed Form I-765, personal statement, fee payment, copies of documents, and any other required forms.
6. Mail your application: Send your complete application packet to the appropriate USCIS address depending on whether you're requesting OPT before or after completing your degree.

Who needs Optional Practical Training Application?

1. International students on F-1 visas who wish to work in the U.S. in a field related to their major after completing their studies.
2. Students seeking practical training to gain experience that enhances their education and prepares them for future employment.

People Also Ask about

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.

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.

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.

Who is eligible for STEM OPT?

You must have received both degrees from currently accredited and SEVP-certified institutions, and cannot have already received a STEM OPT extension based on this previous degree. The practical training opportunity also must be directly related to the previously obtained STEM degree.

How do I apply for optional practical training?

Applying for OPT Request that your designated school official (DSO) at your academic institution recommend the OPT. Properly file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization with USCIS, accompanied by the required fee and the supporting documentation as described in the form instructions.

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.

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 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.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Optional Practical Training Application?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Application is a request made by F-1 international students to gain temporary employment in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree or while still studying.

Who is required to file Optional Practical Training Application?

F-1 visa holders who wish to participate in Optional Practical Training must file the OPT application through their school and USCIS to seek authorization for employment.

How to fill out Optional Practical Training Application?

To fill out the OPT application, a student must complete Form I-765, gather required documents including a copy of their I-20, proof of identity, and passport photos, and then submit the package to USCIS along with the application fee.

What is the purpose of Optional Practical Training Application?

The purpose of the Optional Practical Training Application is to allow international students to gain hands-on work experience in their academic field, enhance their skills, and improve their employment opportunities after graduation.

What information must be reported on Optional Practical Training Application?

The OPT application requires information such as personal details (name, address, date of birth), immigration status, details about the program of study, proposed employment information, and any prior OPT authorization.