OPT

Optional Practical Training 

OPT provides students an opportunity to gain employment in their field of study. Students are eligible for a total of 12 months of OPT, which is generally used after completion of studies. Students will not be able to work until the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is obtained. OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to a F-1 student’s major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization after completing their academic studies. A post-completion OPT application may be filed up to 90 days before the completion of degree requirements but no later than 60 days after you complete your degree.

If you are authorized for OPT, you should work at least 20 hours per week to be consider full-time  You are not allowed to be unemployed or work part-time (less than 20 hours per week) for longer than 90 days.

 No, a job offer is not required when applying. 

Yes, you may change employers as many times as you want while on post-Completion OPT.

 You will remain in F-1 visa status. 

  1. Before applying for OPT, make an appointment with the international academic counselor to determine if you have completed your degree or certificate requirements to be eligible for OPT.
  2. If you qualify, complete the  Application for Employment Authorization I-765 form. We recommend you file online for faster processing.
    1. Click "File Online"
    2. Create an account
    3. Select "MYUSCIS"
    4. Select "Individual"
    5. Select "File Form Online"
    6. Select "Post Complete OPT"
    7. Complete and save the form
  3. Schedule meeting with ISP Office to issue I-20 with OPT recommmendation - https://sjcc.live/ISPinfoMeeting
  4. Bring the following documents to the International Student Program for the international advisor to review.
    • Passport
    • Visa 
    • I-94 card
    • All previous I-20 documents
    • Completed form I-765 
    •  2 passport photos 
    • Form of payment $470
    • Please keep copies of all documents sent!
  5. After you submit your application and required documents, you will receive an email from SEVIS with instructions to register on the SEVIS portal.
  6. Wait for EAD card to arrive before beginning any employment (paid or unpaid).
  7. Update the International Student Program regarding any employment information.
  8. Submit a copy of your EAD card to the International Student Program office.

More information can be found on the official USCIS website.