Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) 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. International students in F-1 status are eligible to apply for OPT if they complete their associate degree. It is important to apply for OPT early in your last semester 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 and reach the employment start date on your card before you begin working.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS - You may apply for the OPT employment option if you meet the following criteria:
-You must be enrolled in your last semester of classes required to earn an associate degree.
-You must be in legal 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 receive your EAD card. If approved, you may work full-time anywhere in the U.S. Our office will need a copy of your EAD card once you receive it.
Processing time for OPT applications is approximately 3 months, so be sure to apply early if you hope to work soon after graduating.
The employment authorization period is 12 months. The authorization period start date on your EAD card cannot be more than 60 days after you graduate and the end date will be no more than 12 months after the start date.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
Academic Counselor form, to be completed by an Academic Counselor.
DHS Form I-765 To download the form go to http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-765.pdf Type your information onto the form. Read and follow these instructions for the form carefully:
In question #3: Make sure this address will be valid for at least 120 days. This is where they will mail your EAD card. Your EAD card will not be forwarded to you if you move.
In question #10: Type the number located on your Form I-94 (the white card stapled in your passport when you entered the U.S)
In question #16: Type (C) (3) (B)
Type your telephone number and the date. Then print the form and sign your name. Your signature must fit between the lines.
Passport (original)
Form I-94 (original)
Form I-20's (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 submission of your application. For information about the required dimensions of the photos, check the Composition Checklist.
Processing Fee - $380 money order payable to: Department of Homeland Security. No personal checks. Fee is $340 if mailed before November 24, 2010.
Form G-1145 - You can receive E-notification from DHS when they receive your application by filling out this form: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-1145.pdf
Once you have completed your OPT paperwork, schedule an appointment with your Advisor by calling
(805) 730-4040
Academic Counselor Form