What is OPT? Short for Optional Practical Training, it is a temporary employment authorization granted exclusively to international students studying in the United States on an F-1 visa. This unique program enables them to acquire essential practical experience in their respective fields of study. The primary objective of OPT is to provide these students with a golden opportunity to immerse themselves in the American workforce, applying the knowledge and skills they have diligently acquired during their academic journey. By acting as a bridge between academic studies and real-world experience, OPT greatly enhances the overall educational experience for international students.
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What is OPT?
Administered by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the OPT program falls under the broader F-1 visa regulations specifically tailored for non-immigrant students attending prestigious academic institutions in the United States. To be deemed eligible for OPT, students must meet certain criteria, including enrollment in a full-time degree program at an accredited US college or university, as well as the completion of at least one academic year of their chosen program.
Two primary types of OPT are available: Pre-completion OPT and Post-completion OPT. Pre-completion OPT permits students to engage in part-time employment (up to 20 hours per week) while their academic program is in session, and full-time employment during school breaks. On the other hand, Post-completion OPT allows students to work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) once they have successfully completed their academic program. Both types of OPT can be utilized for a maximum duration of 12 months, and students must submit separate applications for each type.
Application Process
The application process for OPT involves two key steps. Initially, students must obtain a recommendation from their Designated School Official (DSO), who acts as a guiding resource throughout their OPT journey. Following this, they are required to submit Form I-765, commonly known as the Application for Employment Authorization, to the USCIS. Timing is crucial, as the application must be filed within specific timeframes to ensure its processing and approval before the intended employment start date. While the typical processing time for an OPT application is around 90 days, it’s important to note that processing times may vary based on the volume of applications received by the USCIS.
Once a student’s OPT application is approved, they will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the USCIS. This document serves as concrete evidence of the student’s authorization to legally work in the United States. When seeking employment, students are required to present the EAD to their potential employer during the hiring process. It is important to emphasize that students must not commence working until they have received their EAD and the approved start date specified on the document has arrived.
Advantages of Participating in the OPT Program
One of the significant advantages of participating in OPT is the opportunity it provides students to secure employment positions directly aligned with their field of study. This invaluable provision enables students to gain hands-on experience, broaden their professional network, and enrich their resume while simultaneously earning a salary that can help alleviate the financial burdens associated with their education. Moreover, employers greatly benefit from the OPT program as they gain access to a diverse and highly skilled workforce that brings fresh perspectives, creativity, and talent to the workplace.
In 2008, the US Department of Homeland Security introduced a noteworthy extension to the standard 12-month OPT period exclusively for students majoring in specific Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This extension, commonly referred to as the STEM OPT extension, grants eligible students an additional 24 months of employment authorization, ultimately allowing them to participate in a total of up to 36 months of OPT. To qualify for this extension, students must hold a degree in a designated STEM field, secure employment with an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program, and collaborate with their employer to develop a formal training plan. This training plan must outline how the employment opportunity will provide the student with practical experience directly related to their field of study, and it must be approved by their DSO.
Limitations
While the program undeniably offers numerous benefits for international students, it is important to acknowledge its inherent limitations. For instance, students must diligently maintain their F-1 visa status throughout their OPT period, obligating them to meet specific requirements such as reporting any changes in their personal information, employment status, or address to their DSO. Additionally, the standard 12-month duration of OPT may prove insufficient for some students, hindering their ability to fully develop their skills and gain the extensive experience necessary to thrive in their chosen careers.
Despite these limitations, OPT unquestionably remains a valuable resource for international students pursuing their studies in the United States. The program not only helps them acquire essential practical experience, but also assists in the development of their professional skills and fosters vital connections within their respective industries. These invaluable experiences ultimately translate into improved job prospects and increased potential for career advancement in the future. Moreover, employers greatly benefit from the unique perspectives, creativity, and exceptional talent that international students bring to the workplace.
Conclusion
In recent years, there have been ongoing discussions surrounding potential changes to the OPT program. These discussions primarily aim to address concerns related to labor market competition and potential instances of fraud. Some stakeholders argue that the program should undergo reform to ensure its continued success in meeting its objectives while effectively safeguarding the interests of US workers.
Potential changes to the OPT program may involve implementing stricter requirements for participating employers, enhancing oversight of training plans, and increasing data reporting to closely monitor program outcomes. However, any alterations made to the OPT program must be carefully considered to strike a delicate balance between supporting international students and addressing the legitimate concerns of the broader labor market.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information presented in this article is intended for informational purposes only and has been aggregated from various sources available on the internet. It does not constitute legal advice or guidance of any sort. The content provided is subject to change as laws and regulations evolve. If you require legal assistance or advice, it is recommended to consult an attorney or qualified legal professional specializing in immigration law. The author and publisher of this article disclaim any liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions or for any actions taken in reliance upon the information provided.
