Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Through Optional Practical Training (OPT), international students from non-immigrant F-1 visa categories can work in the US after graduation for up to one year.
It’s a popular scheme with job-seekers as it enables them to gain employment related to their field of study and use skills during their degrees. In addition, if they have completed coursework towards a degree that is useful domestically or internationally, why not put it into practice?
Undergraduates and postgraduates alike are eligible— all those who finish university studies in America might get jobs through OPT for a year there. Those who complete degrees in science, technology engineering, mathematics (STEM) fields might benefit from an extension rule too: they can stay on for an additional 24 months if offered employment relating to their major subject area.

With this added time, they receive wider opportunities for professional development and advancement- allowing them to work on things nearer both their ambitions when they were studying as well as what fits best with their career plans.
In order to take part in OPT, one needs an F-1 visa still valid plus either a degree already obtained or very close to finishing school. Getting permission to work from US immigration is part of the job– though applying isn’t always easy.

There are forms to fill out properly plus evidence you must provide; everything has strict deadlines too. What makes it more complicated is that when they send off these requests (often multiple times), applicants’ coordinators at university international student offices must verify there are no mistakes or omissions so that submissions can be accepted. Any mistakes like this might mean somebody loses out waiting another turn.

In addition to gaining valuable work experience, Optional Practical Training presents an excellent opportunity for cultural acclimatization and skill-building within your profession! Comprehending American workplace etiquette, including communication techniques and internal operations, will be extremely useful if you seek jobs either in the United States or elsewhere– it really does pay dividends. Participation through OPT can also enhance your resume/CV usable industry contacts, giving a leg-up when looking for full-time employment— plus making those career choices seem less daunting!

We help students with OPT applications as part of our study-abroad advising.
By providing information on eligibility criteria, assisting with documentation, liaising with universities, and explaining how U. S. immigration law works– all things immigrant students sometimes find confusing– we make the whole process easier.
This means those who take our advice can make the most of an opportunity (OPT) that many consider to be huge while still following the visa rules!
Put simply: if you are an international student and want work experience in America relate to your studies then Optional Practical Training is probably vital for you.