Optional Practical Training (OPT)
International students in F-1 status are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)if they complete their Associate degree. This is a one-year work permit that provides an opportunity for you to apply the classroom knowledge and skills you have learned to the work environment. It is important to apply for OPT early in your last semester of studies in order to take full advantage of the one-year permit. If approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which should be presented to your employer at the time of hire. You must obtain your EAD card before you begin working.
Eligibility Requirements - You may apply for this off-campus employment option under the following circumstances:
-You must be enrolled in your last semester of course requirements for an Associate degree to apply.
-You must be in lawful F-1 status for one full academic year and be in good academic standing (at least 2.0 GPA).
-A student is not required to have a job offer to apply.
-You must complete an Associate degree.
-Employment must be directly related to your field of study.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO CONSIDER
You may apply as early as 90 days before completion of your degree.
You cannot begin work until you have officially graduated and you have received your Employment Authorization card. If approved, you may work full-time anywhere in the US. Our office will need a copy of your EAD card once you receive it.
The California Service Center that process these applications can take approximately 3 months to respond to an employment application, so be sure to apply early if you hope to work soon after graduating.
Keep in mind that in order to take advantage of the full 12 month authorization for OPT, your OPT must begin within 60 days after you graduate. The expiration date on your Employment Authorization card will be 12 months after the start date or less and will never exceed 14 months after you graduate.
CHECKLIST
Form completed by an Academic Counselor ? Student Services Bldg.
DHS Form I-765 Go to : http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-765.pdf and complete the I-765 form, print form and sign in black ink.
In question #3: Make sure that this address will be valid for at least the next 120 days. This is where they will mail your EAD card. ( They do not forward mail)
In question #10: type the number located on your I-94 form (the white card in your passport).
In question #16 type (C) (3) (B).
Sign your name ( must be with in the lines). Type your telephone number and date the form.
Passport (original)
Form I-94 (original)
This is the white card stapled in your passport given to you when you entered the U.S.
I-20 forms (bring all of the original I-20?s you have been issued, even from previous schools)
Two photographs taken no earlier than 30 days before submitssion of application
Processing Fee - $340 money order payable to: Department of Homeland Security
Once you have completed your OPT paperwork, schedule an appt. with your Advisor.
(805) 730-4040