What do you mean by OPT and eligibility criteria?

OPT means Optional Practical Training especially for those students who are enrolled or about to complete their degree in the United States of America and can work either during their vacation or leave term or even after completion of their course and their status of immigration would be F1.  OPT helps these students to avail a temporary employment authorization and one can explore and experience the work over there during this period.  Many students on F1 visas would like to take temporary work assignments relevant to their studies.  It's an opportunity to experience work as well as earn. 

It’s a great opportunity for international students to experience their learning practically through employment and also build confidence to continue their studies. Optional Practical Training is a paradigm shift from theory to practical approach at work. 

OPT is not an employment provided by sponsors. OPT is a work authorization program that allows international students in the United States to work in their field of study

Students holding an F-1 visa for a minimum period of nine months can apply to US Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) for twelve months of Optional Practical Training Work Authorization. The student's Visa should be a valid one while applying for this. Also, they should have already opted for a full-time course at any university in the United States. While applying for OPT, the student's presence in the US is mandatory.   

What are the types of OPT?

• Pre-completion OPT (part time or full time during school breaks). Part time or full time during the student’s annual vacation and at other times when school is not in session, if the student intends to register for the following semester. Part time while school is in session or part time or full time after completion of graduate course work requirements excluding a thesis or dissertation  

• Post-completion OPT (full time after graduation) / after completion of the course of the study

What is the application process of OPT?

Students have to submit an OPT request to their school’s international student services (ISSS), receive an OPT I-20, and then file Form I-765 with USCIS within 30 days 

How much is the Length of authorization and hours to be worked for OPT?  

Twelve-month period can be applied as part of initial post-completion and the work start date must be within sixty days after the end of the program.   The hours of employment must be a minimum of 20 hours per week, whether paid or unpaid.

What should you do when your OPT period comes to an end? 

When your OPT period comes to an end, it is essential to plan your next step to ensure a smooth transition. As a first step, try and explore your options like H1-B Visa process. Check if your employer is willing to sponsor you for an H1-B visa. If they are, you might be able to do transition seamlessly from OPT to H1-B Visa. You may also consider enrolling in a higher degree program, which can make you eligible for another period of OPT. Also, look into other work visa options, such as the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability or the L-1 Visa for intra-company transfers.

The next option would be to apply for STEM degree, since if you have a degree in STEM field, you can apply for a 24 month extension of your OPT. For this, you need to submit Form I-765 and Form I-983, and obtain a new I-20 from your DSO with the STEM OPT recommendation. 

Is there any grace period after OPT ends? 

After your OPT ends, you have a 60-day grace period to prepare for your next steps and during this time you can transfer to another school or start a new program of study,  change your visa status which means you can apply for H1-B visa, or prepare to leave U.S. 

During this period, you should continue to report any changes to your DSO and ensure that your SEVIS record is up to date. You should also keep all your immigration documents, such as I-20, passport, visa and EAD card, in order. Consider consulting with an immigration attorney to explore your options and ensure you comply with all regulations. Use your university’s international student office for guidance and support. 

If you plan to stay in the U.S., start applying for jobs that can sponsor you for a work visa. Leverage professional networks, job fairs, and alumni connections to find job opportunities. Also during this time, ensure you have enough savings to support yourself during the transition period. Plan your finances carefully to cover any potential gaps in employment. Make arrangements for your housing situation, whether you are planning to stay in the U.S. or return to your home country. Also, review and update your health insurance coverage as needed. Ensure you understand and comply with your tax obligations, including filing any necessary tax returns.  Consider consulting with an immigration attorney for advice on your specific situation and future visa options. 

Through this, you can navigate the end of your OPT period effectively and make informed decisions about your future.  By taking these steps, you can better prepare for the end of your OPT period and smoothly transition to the next phase of your professional and personal life.