A foreign student in the U.S. on an F-1 visa can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) directly with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after graduating from a university and obtaining their Bachelor’s degree. OPT allows students to gain practical experience in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their academic program.
Here’s a general overview of the steps involved in the application process:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for OPT. Generally, you must have been enrolled in a full course of study for at least one full academic year and be in lawful F-1 status at the time of applying.
- Consult with Your Designated School Official (DSO): Before applying, you should first consult with your school’s DSO to get your OPT recommendation. The DSO will endorse your OPT request by recommending it in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and providing you with a new Form I-20 that includes the OPT recommendation.
- Complete Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. You will need to carefully fill out this form, following all instructions provided by USCIS.
- Gather Required Documentation: Along with Form I-765, you’ll need to submit supporting documents, including your new Form I-20 with the DSO’s OPT recommendation, a copy of your passport, photos, and any other documents specified by USCIS.
- Submit Your Application: You can file your Form I-765 and supporting documentation online or by mail to the appropriate USCIS address. Be sure to file within the correct time frame – no earlier than 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after your program end date, and within 30 days of the DSO entering the OPT recommendation into SEVIS.
- Wait for Decision: After submitting your application, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS, and you can check the status of your application online. Processing times vary, so it’s important to plan accordingly and apply as early as you’re eligible.
Remember that working in the U.S. without authorization can sometimes have serious consequences, so ensure that you follow the application process carefully and abide by all conditions of your F-1 status and OPT authorization. For the most current information and requirements, it’s best to check the official USCIS website or consult with your school’s DSO.
You can submit the Form I-765 for Optional Practical Training (OPT) employment authorization before graduating from your degree program. In fact, it is common for students to apply for pre-completion OPT or post-completion OPT before actually graduating.
Here are the key differences between pre-completion and post-completion OPT:
- Pre-Completion OPT: This allows students to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while school is in session and full-time during the school’s annual vacation periods. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in a full course of study at a U.S. Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. They can apply for pre-completion OPT after being enrolled for a full academic year.
- Post-Completion OPT: This is intended for after the student has completed their studies. Students are eligible for up to 12 months of OPT after completing their degree program, and they can work part-time or full-time. Students can apply for post-completion OPT up to 90 days before their program end date and no later than 60 days after their program end date.
For both pre-completion and post-completion OPT, the application process involves obtaining an endorsement from the school’s Designated School Official (DSO) and submitting the Form I-765 to USCIS. It’s important to coordinate with the DSO and follow the specific guidelines for applying, as the timing and eligibility requirements are strict.
In summary, students do not need to have graduated to apply for OPT, but they do need to meet specific eligibility criteria related to their current stage of study (pre-completion or post-completion) and ensure they apply within the designated time frames.