OPT Optional Practical Training-OPT International Center Building 1, Room 104 international@cpp.edu
OPT After participating....you will be able to understand the application process and apply for OPT
OPT You need a job to apply for OPT? A) True B) False How long can you be on OPT? A) 12 months B) 9 months C) Forever OPT is a benefit of F-1 visa? A) True B) False Pre-Test
OPT Optional full-time employment Temporary ( 1 year) employment authorization at the end of each degree program Directly related to major OPT ends in 12 months OR beginning of new academic program STEM 24 months after regular OPT
Eligibility In status F-1 Visa students Completion of all course requirements Fulfill GWT requirement Apply in final quarter
The Application Process 1. Pick a starting date within 60 days after I- 20 end date 2. Submit the application 90 days before OPT start date. 90 days (application processing) 60 days (OPT start date) 90 days (unemployment time)
OPT Timeline End of the program completion term Unemployment: total 90 days End of OPT Application Window OPT (12 months) Apply 90 days before the OPT start day. 60 days Choose any date within 60 days to start OPT. 60 days Leave the U.S., transfer to another school, or change to another visa type (also known as "Grace Period ).
Important Questions when determining start date Begin work immediately after the last quarter? Take a break before you begin working? Do you have a potential job offer?
Case Example: Harry Potter 1. When is your Final Quarter? Fall 2018 Last day of finals is 12/16/2018 2. What is your Starting Date? I will pick 12/25/2018 3. When are you going to apply? I will submit the application on 9/26/2018 60 DAYS WINDOW: 12/17/18 to 02/14/2019 *pick a future starting date*
Self Planning Activity Let s work on your current situation: 1. When is your Final Quarter? 2. What is your Starting Date? 3. When are you going to apply/make appointment?
Common Questions. What happens if I don t get EAD and I-20 date reached? Can I start working if start date reached but don t have EAD card? How do I update my I-20 record about jobs?
Sample EAD Card Front Back Signature 06/14/2014 06/13/2015
How Do I apply? Go to the International Center Website www.cpp.edu/~international/students/currentstudents/opt.shtml Date calculator link on website Complete the steps 1-8 Make an appointment with an Advisor (Step 8)
Keep in mind Request for OPT I-20 must be made at least 48 hours before an appointment Appointment with an Advisor Advisor will review OPT packet
Application Obstacles and Potential Problems Moving without notifying USCIS Problems with the payment Requests for Further Information Reporting employment information Reporting local address
OPT Post-Test How long is the OPT application process? A) 60 days B) 30 days C) 90 days I must know my OPT start date before I make the appointment? A) True B) False How many days of unemployment do you have on OPT? A) 30 days B) 90 days C) 12 months I can begin working right after I graduate? A) True B) False