OPT stands for Optional Practical Training and it is a type of work permit that allows foreign students to stay and work in the United States. OPT allows foreign students to work in their field of study or related field for up to 12 months after graduation. With OPT, it is possible for foreign students to gain valuable work experience in their field and improve their job prospects in the US. However, it is important to understand that OPT does not guarantee that a student will find a job or be able to stay in the US.
What is OPT?
OPT is a type of work permit for foreign students in the US. It is available to students who are on F-1 visas and have graduated from an accredited college or university in the US. With OPT, students can work in their field of study or related field for up to 12 months. This allows foreign students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the US and improve their job prospects.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for OPT?
In order to be eligible for OPT, a foreign student must meet certain criteria. These include:
- Be on an F-1 visa
- Have graduated from an accredited college or university in the US
- Have a valid passport
- Have a valid I-20 from their school
- Have a job offer from a US employer
- Be able to demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially during their OPT period
How to Apply for OPT?
In order to apply for OPT, a foreign student must first submit an application to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include the following documents:
- Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization
- A copy of your valid passport
- A copy of your valid I-20
- A copy of your diploma or transcripts
- A letter of recommendation from a professor or employer
- A copy of your job offer
- Proof of financial support
Once the application is submitted, the USCIS will review it and issue a decision within 90 days. If the application is approved, the student will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This document will allow the student to work in the US for up to 12 months.
What are the Benefits of OPT?
There are several benefits to applying for OPT. These include:
- Improve job prospects – OPT allows foreign students to gain valuable work experience in their field of study. This work experience can improve their job prospects in the US.
- Gain US experience – OPT allows foreign students to gain US experience and learn how to navigate the US job market.
- Build a US network – OPT allows foreign students to build a network of contacts in the US and make important connections.
- Obtain a work permit – OPT allows foreign students to obtain a work permit for up to 12 months.
- Increase earning potential – OPT can increase a foreign student’s earning potential by allowing them to work in the US and gain valuable experience.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get with OPT?
With OPT, foreign students can work in their field of study or related field for up to 12 months. This means that a foreign student can work in any job related to their field of study. For example, a student who has graduated with a degree in engineering can work as an engineer or in a related field, such as software development.
What are the Limitations of OPT?
While OPT can be a great opportunity for foreign students to gain valuable work experience in the US, it is important to understand that it is not a guarantee of employment. It is also important to understand that there are certain limitations to OPT. These include:
- Time limitation – OPT is limited to 12 months. After this period, a foreign student must either find a new job or leave the US.
- Job restrictions – OPT is only valid for jobs related to the student’s field of study. This means that the student cannot work in any other field.
- Financial restrictions – OPT does not provide any financial support. The student must be able to support themselves financially during their OPT period.
- Employment restrictions – OPT does not guarantee employment. The student must find their own job and be able to demonstrate their ability to support themselves during their OPT period.
Conclusion
OPT can be a great opportunity for foreign students to gain valuable work experience in the US and improve their job prospects. However, it is important to understand that OPT does not guarantee employment and there are certain restrictions and limitations. It is also important to understand that OPT is only valid for jobs related to the student’s field of study and the student must be able to demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially during their OPT period.
FAQs
Can I stay in the US after my OPT expires?
No, once your OPT expires you must either find a new job or leave the US.
Do I need a job offer to apply for OPT?
Yes, in order to be eligible for OPT, you must have a job offer from a US employer.
Can I work in any field with OPT?
No, with OPT you can only work in a field related to your field of study.