Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional practical training is defined in the regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student's major area of study " [8 C. F. R. section 214.2 (f)(10)(ii)]. Most students choose to request OPT at the end of their program of study.

Eligibility for OPT:
A student must meet the following eligibility criteria in order to request OPT.

• Enrollment for at least one full academic year.
• Employment must be in the student’s area of study.
• Employment after the completion of study must be full time.
• Students must apply for OPT before the completion date of their course of study.

• Optional practical training is authorized for a maximum of 12 months per educational level.
• The 12 months must be used within 14 months of completion of course of study.
• Students applying for OPT are encouraged not to travel outside of the U.S. until they have secured employment. The student may be asked to produce proof of employment when re-entering the country while on OPT.

1. Request a letter from the dean of your center. This letter should reference your good standing as a student, your completion date and your request for OPT. The dean will forward this letter to the college’s registrar for verification. The registrar will then generate a letter and send it to the ISL.
2. Complete the OPT request form and I-765 and return them to the international student liaison with your I-20. The forms can be found on the USCIS website.
3. The international student liaison will make a recommendation for OPT in SEVIS-(the Department of Homeland Security system for international student and scholars), return the completed forms and I-20 to the student for submission to the USCIS Service Center in Vermont. Detailed instructions can be found on http://uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm and on the I-765. Please note the $380.00 filing fee that must be submitted with the I-765 form to the Service Center. Fees are subject to change without notice so please check the fees on the USCIS web page to maintain correct fees.
4. When your OPT is approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS. A copy of that card must be mailed to the ISL.

• Completed Form I-765. In item # 16 on the form write “( c ) ( 3 ) (B )”
• Check or money order payable to USCIS (see the USCIS web site for the most current fee)
• Form I-94 (photocopy of both sides)
• Previous EAD(s) - Employment Authorization Documents (if applicable; photocopy)
• Two ADIT style photos
• Form I-20 with ISL/PDSO recommendation for OPT (photocopy)