What is optional practical training?
OPT is off-campus employment that is related to your major field of study.
Who is eligible for OPT?
A person who has been in F-1 status for at least nine months. Eligible F-1 students may engage in optional practical training:
- After completion of a course of study
- Before completion of studies if engaged in thesis or dissertation research
- During the summer or over winter break
- During the regular academic year (on a part-time basis, deducted from the 12-month maximum at a proportional rate)
You are not eligible to apply for OPT if you leave the U.S. after graduation and before applying for OPT.
When can I apply?
The sooner the better. It is recommended you apply 120 days before graduation, if the OPT is to begin after graduating. You must apply prior to completing your degree.
Do I need a job offer in order to apply?
No.
- Read this FAQ.
- Complete the Immigration Form I-765 (an application for an Employment Authorization Document, or EAD), Following the instructions on the EAD Fact Sheet, complete Form I-765.
- Make an appointment with an the Director of Int’l Programs – phone 755-4096.
- To the appointment, take:
- the completed I-765
- the original (not a photocopy) of your Form I-20
- your passport
- your Form I-94 (the white card)
Can I go in person to an INS office to apply for OPT?
No. OPT applications must be submitted to the INS by mail.
When can I start to work under OPT?
When you have the EAD and the beginning date of employment authorization (shown on the EAD) has arrived.
Does OPT employment need to be full time?
No.
What's the difference between OPT and Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
Curricular practical training permits employment during the time one is still taking classes. CPT requires the offer of a specific job. You must have departmental approval, and register for internship credits.
If I had CPT, can I still have OPT?
Yes, as long as you did not have full-time CPT for at least one year.
Can I change employers if I have OPT?
Yes. There is no immigration-related procedure required for doing so. As long as the employment is related to your field of study, you can work for any employer.
Can I travel outside the USA if I have OPT?
In order to re-enter the U.S. after you have applied for OPT, you must have an I-20 signed by an adviser within the last six months, a valid F-1 visa, a valid passport and your EAD, and evidence of a job or a job offer.
Is OPT a different visa?
No. A person with OPT authorization is an F-1 student holding an EAD for OPT.
How long can I stay in the United States after my OPT expires?
Sixty days.
Can I return to school after completing OPT?
Yes. You need to obtain an I-20 for the next program of studies, and complete the Immigration procedure for moving to a "new level of studies" (if you resume studies at BSU) or the procedure for school transfer if you go to a different school
If I have OPT for a year and return to school for another degree, can I have another year of OPT?
Yes, if your degree is at a higher level.