 Optional
practical training is for any type of work experience in a student's
field of study, and may be used in any of the following four ways:
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During the student's annual vacation, and at other
times when school is not in session |
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While school is in session provided that the training
does not exceed twenty hours per week |
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After completion of all course requirements for the
degree, excluding thesis or equivalent |
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After completion of the course of study.
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Students may choose to
use their 12 months of available optional practical training using a
combination of the four options, or they may use it all at once such as
after their course of study.
Requirements
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The total OPT shall not exceed a maximum of 12
months. Each period of OPT used deducts from the total of 12
months of authorization. |
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Part-time practical training, 20 hours per week or
less, shall be deducted from the available practical training at
one half the full time rate. |
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A student must complete practical training within a
14-month period following the completion of study. A job offer is
not required to apply for optional practical training. However, if
applying for OPT before completion of the course of study, it is
recommended that students have a job offer. |
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OPT requires an application to the U.S. Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services for the Employment
Authorization Document (EAD).
Eligibility
You must meet the following criteria:
|
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Students must have been in F-1 status for a
minimum of one academic year. |
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Students become eligible for an additional 12 months
of practical training when changing to a new degree program at a
higher educational level. |
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