Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows international students on F-1 visas in the United States to work temporarily in a field directly related to their major area of study. OPT is available to students both before (pre-completion) and after (post-completion) they complete their degree program.

OPT provides an opportunity for international students to gain practical experience and apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting. It is a critical bridge between academic study and professional employment, helping students enhance their skills and improve their employability.

Eligibility and Application Process:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible for OPT, students must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year. They must be in valid F-1 status at the time of application.
2. Application: Students must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application must be accompanied by supporting documents, including an I-20 form endorsed by the Designated School Official (DSO) and proof of current F-1 status.

Types of OPT:

1. Pre-Completion OPT: Students can apply for OPT before completing their degree. They can work part-time (20 hours or less per week) while school is in session and full-time during breaks.
2. Post-Completion OPT: After completing their degree, students can work full-time. Post-completion OPT must be completed within 14 months of graduation.

Duration and Extensions:

• Standard OPT: Eligible for up to 12 months of OPT per educational level (e.g., bachelor’s, master’s, PhD).
• STEM OPT Extension: Students with a degree in a designated Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field can apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT, for a total of 36 months.

Employment Conditions:

1. Job Relation: The employment must be directly related to the student’s major area of study.
2. Reporting Requirements: Students on OPT must report their employer’s information, any changes in employment, and their current address to their DSO. They must also confirm their employment status every six months.
3. Unemployment Limit: Students are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment during their 12-month OPT period. Those with a STEM extension are allowed an additional 60 days, for a total of 150 days.

Benefits of OPT:

• Professional Experience: OPT provides practical, hands-on experience in the student’s field of study.
• Career Development: Enhances career prospects by allowing students to gain U.S. work experience.
• Pathway to H-1B: Many students transition from OPT to H-1B visa status, which allows them to continue working in the U.S. on a long-term basis.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Application Timing: Students must be mindful of the application timeline. OPT applications can take several months to process.
• Maintaining Status: It is crucial to comply with all reporting requirements and maintain proper status to avoid being out-of-status.
• Employment Verification: Students must ensure that their employment is related to their field of study and keep thorough documentation of their job responsibilities and relevance to their major.

Etymology:

“Optional” derives from the Latin word “optionem,” meaning “the power of choosing.” “Practical” comes from the Greek word “praktikos,” meaning “fit for action.” “Training” is from the Old English word “trenung,” meaning “discipline or instruction.”