Are you planning on coming to the US and working on Optional Practical Training (OPT)? If so, you must map out a plan of action. OPT is a temporary employment opportunity for international students who want to work in the nation for up to 12 months after completing their degree. Knowing about the process, criteria and requirements for OPT are vital, and this article will provide helpful guidance.
Navigating through the process of Optional Practical Training in the US can be overwhelming and daunting. However, with the right preparation and understanding, it is possible to obtain OPT and gain meaningful work experience in the US. This article will provide an overview of everything you need to know about the OPT application process.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a period of temporary employment that is related to the student’s major area of study. It is provided by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) to F-1 non-immigrant students in the US. The F-1 student must obtain employment authorization from the USCIS before engaging in any work-related activity.
OPT allows international students to gain practical experience directly related to their degree program in the US for a total of 12 months, as long as the student is in valid F-1 status. For STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) students, OPT may also be extended for an additional 24 months.
The list below summarizes the benefits of OPT:
- Allows international students to gain real world experience in their field
- Can be used as a stepping stone to gaining permanent work authorization
- Creates cultural exchange and international understanding
- Improves the student’s work skills and network
Planning Process for OPT
OPT is Optional Practical Training which allows non-immigrant students to work legally in the United States for a specific period of time. To apply for OPT, there are a few steps to follow to ensure you submit a successful application. Here is a planning process that you can use when applying for Optional Practical Training:
1. Know Requirements for OPT
Before beginning the application process for OPT, it is important to make sure you are eligible for the program. Generally, to qualify, you must have completed a U.S. degree program within the past 12 months or been enrolled for at least nine consecutive months in an academic program related to your intended field of employment.
2. Prepare Supportive Documents
To prepare for the OPT application process, you must collect all the required documents and forms that are needed for submission. These may include:
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- Copy of valid passport.
- Copy of visa and I-94 card.
- Copy of the signature page of your I-20.
3. Submit OPT Application
Once you have collected all the necessary documents, you can submit your OPT application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) either by mail or online. When submitting online, you also need to provide the payment information for the filing fee. If submitting by mail, you need to enclose a money order or cashier’s check for the filing fee.
4. Await OPT Decision
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the USCIS to process your request and make a decision. This can take up to 90 days after the receipt date on the application. You will notified via mail when a decision has been made.
5. Receive Employment Authorization Document
If your application for OPT is approved, you will receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) within three weeks. You must carry this documentation with you at all times while working as it proves that you are authorized to work in the United States.
Applying for OPT and Documentation Requirements
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students studying in the US to gain hands-on, practical experience related to their field of study. The application process and documentation requirements can be complex and daunting for many. Here is a step-by-step guide mapping your path to OPT.
Prerequisites
To apply for Optional Practical Training, it is essential to meet the pre-requisites or qualifying criteria. All students must be pursuing a full course of study at a SEVIS-approved college or university in the US and should have been enrolled in a full-time course for over 9 months. More importantly, students must have a valid student visa (e.g., F-1) and maintain good academic standing.
Gather Documentation
In order to apply for OPT, students must have the following documents:
- Form I-765 (Application to the Employment Authorization)
- Passport
- Signed statement from Designated School Official – verifying the applicable degree requirements have been met
- Check/Money Order/Cashier’s Check of $370
- Proof of valid F-1 status (e.g., I-94 record)
- Biometric services details (if applicable)
- Completed Form G-1145 (if applicable)
Submit Application and Processing Fees
Upon collecting all the necessary documents, submit the I-765 form and fees at the USCIS lockbox.Options to pay fees include credit cards, check or money order, or cashier’s check. It is important to make sure that fees have been paid before the filing otherwise the application can be rejected.
Wait for Processing
Once the I-765 form is filed with USCIS, the applicant will receive a receipt or reference number that he/she can use to track the status of their application online. Processing times for OPT typically range from 3–4 months.
Conclusion
The US Optional Practical Training (OPT) program is a valuable opportunity for international students. It allows students to work in their field of study before graduation and gain valuable professional experience. Participating in OPT is a great way to strengthen resumes and become more attractive to employers. With the proper preparation and planning, OPT can be an invaluable experience for international students.
By following the steps outlined in this article, students can map their path towards taking advantage of the OPT program in the US. Understanding the goals behind the US OPT program is the first step. Then, understanding the process and completing the proper paperwork is necessary. With knowledge and planning, international students can take advantage of the great opportunity offered by the OPT program.
