What do you mean by Optional practical training (OPT)?

What do you mean by OPT?

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

What is the purpose of Optional Practical Training?

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.

Why is OPT essential?

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.

Who is eligible for OPT?

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?

1. Pre-completion of course

2. Post-completion of course which means working after their graduation

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.

Is there any exemption during OPT?

Limited time exemption is allowed during OPT and STEM OPT. Students can accrue no more than ninety days of unemployment and in the case of STEM OPT students can accrue no more than 150 days of unemployment. In both cases it's cumulative.

How about unpaid internships and volunteer work on OPT?

For the initial 12-month period of F1 post-completion of OPT, volunteering and participation in an unpaid internship are considered. Volunteering does not mean working without pay. It is donating time to an organization that is involved in charitable or humanitarian.