Optional Practical Training
Definition of Optional Practical Training -
Optional practical training is defined in the regulations as “temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student’s major area of study.”
What’s the first step? – You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis at an I.N.S. approved school for 9 consecutive months before being eligible for OPT. It is available both before and after completion of the educational objective, but different rules apply to pre- and post- completion of OPT. If you are taking an English language training program, then you are not eligible for OPT.
Where can I go to work? – You may engage in OPT for any employer for the duration of OPT authorization, as long as the employment qualifies under OPT standards.
How long will I have? – You can accumulate a maximum of 12 months during any uninterrupted stay in F-1 status. Part-time OPT is deducted from the 12 month limit at 50%.
How many hours a week? – There is a 20 hour a week limit for pre-completion of OPT done while school is in session and if you still have coursework to complete. Anything over 20 hours per week can be requested for pre-completion of OPT done during official school breaks or after student has completed all coursework required for the educational objective. For post-completion OPT, only full-time OPT can be requested.
What kind of job can I get? – The job you get must be directly related to and commensurate with the level of your course of study.
What if they want to hire me? – No offer of employment is required, but you are expected to work or be looking for a job.
What effect will OPT have? Prior use of full-time Curricular Practical Training for one year or more eliminates you from being eligible for Optional Practical Training. Use of part-time CPT does not affect your eligibility for OPT.
How do I get approval? – You must apply for and receive an EAD from I.N.S. with assistance of DSO before work begins. You must apply to I.N.S. for post-completion of OPT no later than 60 days after completing your full course of study.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Obtain an application packet from the Director of Multicultural Affairs
2. Complete Section “A” of Form I-538, the Director will complete Section B of the Form I-538
3. Complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, marked with the code “© (3) (i)” at item 16
4. Sign an I-765 signature card
5. Write a check to the order of “I.N.S.” in the amount of the fee required for Form I-765 (Currently $120)
6. Obtain two ADIT style photos
7. Submit your original Form I-20 ID to the DSO (If the current Form I-20 ID does not have an I.N.S. entry stamp, submit your prior I-20 ID’s that do show an entry date)
8. Submit a copy (both sides) of Form I-94
9. Bring entire packet to the Director for review
10. After the Director has reviewed your application, it is your responsibility to mail the application packet to:
INS Service Center
P.O. Box 87765
Lincoln, NE 68501-7765
Note: Always retain copies of all documents sent to and received from the INS. Mail the application in a traceable manner (e.g. certified and return receipt).
Application Checklist
___ Copy of Form I-538 completed by the student and DSO
___ Form I-765 completed by the student, marked with the code “ ( c ) (3) (i)” at item 16
___ I-765 processing fee ($120.00) in a check made out to “I.N.S”
___ 2 ADIT style photos
___ Form I-765 signature card, signed by the student inside the blue box
___ Copy of the student’s Form I-20 ID
___ Copy of the student’s I-94 front and back
___ Copy of student’s Form I-20 ID with DSO recommendation for Optional Practical
training
___ Copy of ID pages from the student’s passport
___ Mail all the above to
INS Service Center
P.O. Box 87765
Lincoln, NE 68501-7765
The Director will mail the original Form I-538 to:
STSC Data Processing Center
P.O. Box 140
Highway 25 South
London, KY 40741
Note: Always retain copies of all documents sent to and received from the INS. Mail the application in a traceable manner (e.g. certified and return receipt).