Optional Practical Training (OPT) – Michigan

What do you mean by OPT in Michigan?

OPT means Optional Practical Training, especially for students enrolled or about to complete their degree in the United States. Students on an F-1 visa can work during their vacation or after completing their course. OPT helps these students avail of temporary employment authorization to gain work experience in the U.S. Many F-1 visa holders seek temporary jobs related to their studies. It's an opportunity to gain practical work experience while earning. OPT is a great opportunity for international students to gain practical experience and build confidence for continuing their studies. It marks a shift from theoretical learning to a hands-on work approach.

Once a degree is obtained, F-1 students can apply for OPT to gain work experience in their field. The OPT curriculum is designed to help students apply their classroom skills in a professional setting.

What kind of OPT visa?

It’s important to remember that OPT is not a visa on its own; it is work authorization for students with an F-1 visa. Students remain on F-1 student status while on OPT.

What are the steps to apply for OPT in Michigan?

The process to apply for OPT in Michigan follows general guidelines but may vary slightly by institution. It's always best to check with your institution for any additional requirements.

1. Consult your Designated School Official (DSO) and schedule an appointment to discuss eligibility and obtain necessary forms.

2. Enroll in and complete the self-enrollment OPT certification course and save your certificate.

3. Meet with your academic advisor or graduate program coordinator to request an OPT recommendation letter.

4. Submit your request via the M-Passport Portal. An International Center Advisor will review your request and send the recommendation to SEVIS to generate a new I-20.

5. Complete the Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765) and submit it to USCIS. Once approved, you will receive an EAD card, which allows you to work in the U.S. You do not need an employment offer to apply, but you should be actively seeking work once your EAD is issued.

Who is eligible for OPT in Michigan?

Students holding an F-1 visa for a minimum of nine months can apply to USCIS for 12 months of OPT work authorization. The student's visa must be valid while applying for OPT, and they should be enrolled in a full-time course at a U.S. university. Students must be present in the U.S. when applying for OPT.

What are the types of OPT in Michigan?

• Pre-completion OPT (part-time or full-time during school breaks): Part-time during school sessions or full-time during breaks, if the student intends to continue in the next semester.

• Post-completion OPT (full-time after graduation): Full-time after completing the course of study.

What is the process for filing your completed OPT application with USCIS online for OPT in Michigan?

Filing online offers several advantages, including immediate submission of your OPT application to USCIS and faster issuance of the I-765 receipt notice. It also gives you direct access to USCIS notices, including receipt notices, requests for evidence, and approval notices. You can communicate securely with USCIS and provide additional evidence or updates if necessary. Online filing reduces the risk of rejection by ensuring correct signatures and proper fee payment. You can also pay the application fee through a bank account (ACH), debit, or credit card.

What is the OPT duration and extension in Michigan?

The initial post-completion OPT period is 12 months, with the work start date within 60 days after the program ends. Employment must be a minimum of 20 hours per week. If your field of study is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), you may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. To qualify, the employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program, and the student must apply for the extension before the original 12-month period expires. The STEM OPT extension provides extra time to gain experience and prepare for future employment, including H-1B visa applications.

What are the key rules for OPT in Michigan?

Students on F-1 visa OPT must follow these basic guidelines:

• Full-time vs. Part-time: Post-completion OPT must be full-time; pre-completion OPT can be part-time.

• Unemployment Limits: You may remain unemployed for up to 90 days under post-completion OPT. Exceeding this limit can result in loss of F-1 status.

• Job Requirement: Employment must be directly related to the student's major field of study.

Can I travel with a pending OPT application in Michigan?

It is not recommended to travel while your OPT application is pending with USCIS, as it may affect your ability to re-enter the U.S. or respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs). If you travel after receiving your EAD card, carry your valid passport, visa, I-20 (endorsed by your ISA within the last six months), and EAD card. An employment verification letter is not required but is recommended for smooth travel.