Understanding the Optional Practical Training (OPT) Program

What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a work authorization program for international students in the U.S. holding an F-1 visa. It allows students to gain practical work experience directly related to their field of study. OPT serves as a bridge between academic learning and professional employment, helping students transition from the classroom to the workplace.

Purpose and Role of OPT

The primary purpose of OPT is to provide international students with hands-on experience in their area of expertise. This practical exposure complements theoretical knowledge and prepares students for future career opportunities.

Who is Eligible for OPT?

F-1 visa holders enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school are eligible to apply for OPT. Students can participate in OPT before or after completing their academic program, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

Importance of OPT for International Students

OPT is a valuable opportunity for international students to:

• Apply academic knowledge in real-world settings.
• Build professional networks in their field of study.
• Enhance their resumes with relevant U.S. work experience.
• Strengthen their career prospects both in the U.S. and globally.

Types of OPT

Pre-Completion OPT

• Definition: Pre-Completion OPT allows students to work while they are still enrolled in their academic program.
• When to Apply: Students can apply for Pre-Completion OPT after completing one full academic year.
• Working Hours: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
• Common Scenarios: Pre-Completion OPT is ideal for internships or part-time jobs that enhance academic learning.

Post-Completion OPT

• Definition: Post-Completion OPT allows students to work full-time after completing their academic program.
• When to Apply: Students must apply before completing their degree program.
• Key Differences from Pre-Completion OPT:
  • Post-Completion OPT is full-time.
  • It is more widely utilized by graduates seeking professional jobs.
• Time Limits and Conditions: Students are allowed up to 12 months of OPT. However, they must secure employment related to their field of study within 90 days of starting OPT.

STEM OPT Extension

• Eligibility Criteria: Students with a degree in specific STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields qualify for a 24-month extension of Post-Completion OPT.
• Qualifying STEM Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, Biological Sciences, and other STEM-designated fields.
• Benefits for STEM Students:
  • Extended work authorization for up to three years in total.
  • Increased chances of gaining long-term employment in the U.S.
  • Opportunities to work for employers enrolled in the E-Verify program.

Eligibility Criteria for OPT

Basic Requirements

To be eligible for OPT, students must:

• Hold a valid F-1 visa status.
• Be enrolled in a SEVP-approved school in the U.S.

Academic Program Requirements

• Completion of One Academic Year: Students must complete at least one full academic year (two semesters or three quarters) in their degree program before applying.
• Full-Time Enrollment: Students must maintain full-time enrollment during their academic program.

Maintaining F-1 Status During OPT

• Responsibilities of Students:
  • Continue reporting to their Designated School Official (DSO) regarding any changes in employment, address, or status.
  • Work only in jobs related to their field of study.
  • Ensure they do not exceed the unemployment period allowed during OPT (90 days for Post-Completion OPT).

Application Process for OPT

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for OPT

1. Consult Your School’s Designated School Official (DSO):
   • Schedule a meeting with your DSO to discuss your OPT eligibility and plans.
   • The DSO will guide you on how to apply and provide the necessary recommendations.
2. Obtain the I-20 Form with OPT Recommendation:
   • The DSO will issue a new Form I-20 endorsing your OPT application.
   • Review the information on the form to ensure accuracy.
3. Complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization:
   • Fill out Form I-765 with accurate details.
   • Choose the correct category for OPT (Pre-Completion, Post-Completion, or STEM OPT Extension).
4. Submit Your Application to USCIS:
   • Include the completed Form I-765, I-20 with OPT recommendation, and other required documents (listed below).
   • Pay the applicable filing fee (currently $410 but confirm the latest fee from the USCIS website).
   • Submit your application online or by mail, depending on the method you choose.

Application Timeline

• When to Apply:
  • Pre-Completion OPT: Apply up to 90 days before the desired start date.
  • Post-Completion OPT: Apply up to 90 days before and no later than 60 days after completing your program.
• USCIS Processing Times:
  • Processing can take 90–120 days or more.
  • Plan to ensure timely approval and avoid disruptions in your plans.

Required Documents for OPT Application

1. Form I-20: Endorsed by your DSO with an OPT recommendation.
2. Form I-765: Accurately completed application for employment authorization.
3. Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your OPT start date.
4. F-1 Visa: A copy of your current visa.
5. Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos meeting USCIS specifications.
6. Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the I-765 filing fee.
7. Additional Documents:
   • Copies of your previous I-20 forms.
   • Proof of enrollment or completion of your degree program.

Employment Rules Under OPT

Type of Employment Allowed

• Job Relevance: Employment must be directly related to your field of study.
• Examples of Qualifying Jobs:
  • Positions in your major area of study, including full-time jobs, part-time work, or internships.
  • Roles in research, academia, or industry-specific projects.
• Non-Qualifying Jobs:
  • Work unrelated to your academic field or roles that violate F-1 visa regulations.

Working Hours and Limitations

• Part-Time Work:
  • Allowed during academic sessions under Pre-Completion OPT (up to 20 hours per week).
• Full-Time Work:
  • Permitted during scheduled breaks or Post-Completion OPT.
• Unemployment Restrictions:
  • Students on Post-Completion OPT cannot exceed 90 days of unemployment.
  • STEM OPT students have a 150-day unemployment limit (including the initial 90 days).

Volunteer Work and Unpaid Internships

• Qualifying Unpaid Roles:
  • Volunteer work or unpaid internships in your field of study can count as valid OPT employment.
• Documentation:
  • Maintain records of hours worked, duties performed, and supervisor information to prove compliance.

OPT for STEM Students: The STEM OPT Extension

Eligibility Criteria for STEM OPT Extension

1. STEM-Designated Degree: You must have earned a degree in a STEM field listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
2. Employer Requirements:
   • The employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
   • Employers must agree to comply with DHS reporting and training obligations.

Application Process for STEM OPT Extension

1. Obtain a Recommendation from Your DSO:
   • Request your DSO to endorse the STEM OPT extension on your I-20 form.
2. Complete Form I-765:
   • Indicate the STEM OPT category.
   • Include your employer’s E-Verify information.
3. Prepare the Application Package:
   • Include the updated I-20, completed I-765, and supporting documents.
   • Apply to USCIS before your initial OPT expires.

Rules and Regulations for STEM OPT Extension

• Employer Obligations:
  • Employers must develop a formal training plan (Form I-983) for the student.
  • Ensure compliance with DHS site visits and audits.
• Reporting Requirements:
  • Students must report to their DSO every six months with employment updates.
  • Submit an annual evaluation of progress and compliance with the training plan.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Delays in Application Processing

• USCIS Processing Times:
  • Standard processing can take 90–120 days or longer.
  • Delays may arise due to incomplete forms or missing documents.
• Tips for Timely Submission:
  • Apply early, within the recommended timeline.
  • Double-check the application for accuracy and completeness.
  • Track your application status online using the USCIS case tracker.

Maintaining Employment During OPT

• Strategies for Securing Jobs:
  • Leverage university career services for resume building and job placement assistance.
  • Network with alumni and attend job fairs relevant to your field of study.
  • Use professional platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers.
• Alternatives if a Job is Not Secured Immediately:
  • Consider unpaid internships or volunteer roles in your field to maintain OPT compliance.
  • Enrol in additional skill-enhancing programs or certifications to improve employability.

Navigating Unemployment Rules

• Understanding the 90-Day Unemployment Rule:
  • Post-completion OPT allows up to 90 days of unemployment.
  • Unused unemployment days do not carry over to STEM OPT.
• Managing the 150-Day Unemployment Limit for STEM OPT:
  • Includes the initial 90 days of Post-Completion OPT plus 60 additional days.
  • Keep detailed records of employment and volunteer hours to demonstrate compliance.

OPT and H-1B Visa Transition

OPT as a Pathway to H-1B

• Strengthening H-1B Applications:
  • OPT employment provides practical experience in your field, showcasing your skills to potential employers.
  • A proven track record during OPT increases your chances of securing employer sponsorship for an H-1B visa.
• Role of OPT Experience:
  • Demonstrates your ability to work in a U.S. professional environment.
  • Helps employers assess your long-term fit for their organization.

Cap-Gap Extension

• What is the Cap-Gap Extension?
  • A provision allowing F-1 students on OPT to extend their work authorization if their H-1B application is filed and selected before their OPT expires.
• Eligibility for Cap-Gap Extension:
  • Available to students with a pending or approved H-1B petition.
  • Automatically extends OPT until the start date of the H-1B visa (October 1).
• Benefits of the Cap-Gap Extension:
  • Prevents gaps in employment authorization.
  • Allows continued work without interruption while awaiting H-1B status.

Reporting Requirements During OPT

Regular Updates to the DSO

• Mandatory Updates:
  • Inform your Designated School Official (DSO) within 10 days of changes in:
    • Employment status or employer details.
    • Residential address or contact information.
    • Legal name or program changes.
• Best Practices:
  • Keep a personal log of updates provided to the DSO.
  • Ensure your SEVIS record reflects current information.

Employer Reporting Obligations

• Employer’s Role in STEM OPT Compliance:
  • Employers must enrol in E-Verify and comply with Form I-983 training plan requirements.
  • Report significant changes in the student’s employment or training plan.
• Importance of Employer Compliance:
  • Non-compliance may jeopardize the student’s OPT status and future visa applications.

Importance of Timely Reporting

• Avoiding Visa Status Issues:
  • Delayed reporting can lead to the termination of your SEVIS record.
  • Ensure all updates are submitted within the required timeframes.
• Maintaining Work Authorization:
  • Timely reporting ensures continued eligibility to work under OPT or STEM OPT.

For expert assistance with the challenges of OPT applications, H-1B transitions, and compliance, consult SWEC Visa. Our team provides professional guidance to help you achieve your career aspirations seamlessly.

Benefits of OPT for International Students

Career Growth and Real-World Experience

• Practical Application of Academic Knowledge:
  • Opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world professional setting.
  • Hands-on experience that aligns with your field of study.
• Skill Enhancement:
  • Develops industry-relevant skills and builds confidence in professional roles.
  • Exposure to advanced tools, techniques, and workplace cultures in the U.S.

Networking and Professional Connections

• Building a Strong Network:
  • Connect with professionals, mentors, and industry leaders in your field.
  • Participation in networking events and collaborations that open doors for future opportunities.
• Pathway to Future Employment:
  • Relationships built during OPT can lead to long-term career opportunities.
  • Employers often offer full-time roles to high-performing OPT participants.

Long-Term Career Benefits

• Resume Building:
  • Enhances your resume with U.S. work experience, making it more competitive globally.
  • Demonstrates your ability to adapt to diverse work environments.
• Global Career Trajectory:
  • Skills and experience gained during OPT are highly valued in international job markets.
  • OPT lays a solid foundation for future roles, including H-1B or other work visas.

Key Tips for a Successful OPT Experience

Planning Ahead

• Timely Application:
  • Begin the OPT application process 90 days before your program completion.
  • Ensure all required documents are ready to avoid delays.
• Understanding Timelines:
  • Be aware of processing times and deadlines for pre- and post-completion OPT.

Staying Informed

• Regular Updates:
  • Monitor USCIS announcements and changes to OPT policies.
  • Stay connected with your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance.
• Compliance Awareness:
  • Understand employment regulations, reporting requirements, and OPT timelines.

Leveraging Career Services

• University Resources:
  • Use career services for job placement, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
  • Attend workshops and career fairs to explore job opportunities.
• Industry Insights:
  • Seek advice from alumni and mentors who have completed OPT successfully.

Managing Finances During OPT

• Budgeting Essentials:
  • Plan for expenses such as rent, health insurance, transportation, and utilities.
  • Create a savings plan to cover unexpected costs during the OPT period.
• Supplementary Income:
  • Consider part-time or freelance work in compliance with OPT rules.

Conclusion

OPT serves as a critical step between completing your studies and launching a career. It offers valuable U.S. work experience and enhances global employability.

For expert assistance with your OPT application and navigating its complexities, consult SWEC Visa. Our experienced team is here to ensure your OPT journey is smooth and successful.