What is OPT?
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OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a U.S. immigration benefit for F-1 students. It allows eligible international students to work in the U.S. in a job directly related to their major field of study.
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It is considered post-completion practical training (though there is also pre-completion OPT in some circumstances).
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Standard OPT is for 12 months.
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OPT is authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) via an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
OPT Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for OPT, students generally must meet conditions such as:
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Maintain valid F-1 status
The student must be in good standing and comply with all F-1 regulations (e.g. full course load, not in violation of status). -
Have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year
You typically must complete at least one full academic year at the U.S. institution before applying for OPT. -
OPT must relate to the student’s major
The job you accept under OPT must be in a field that is directly connected to your course of study. -
Apply in the correct timeframe
There is a window in which students can apply: usually no earlier than 90 days before the program’s end date, and no later than 60 days after the program’s completion (but before the end of the 60-day grace period). -
Get the recommendation of the DSO (Designated School Official)
The institution’s Designated School Official (DSO) must endorse the student’s I-20 for OPT, indicating that they are eligible, and update SEVIS accordingly. -
File Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
The student must submit Form I-765 and pay the associated USCIS fee. Once approved, USCIS issues an EAD card that shows the period during which the student may work.
OPT for UIC Students (What UIC Provides / What You Should Know)
From UIC’s published international student policies:
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UIC students who complete an Associate, Bachelor or Master’s degree are eligible to receive a work permit (i.e., OPT) and a Social Security number.
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UIC will recommend OPT, provided the student meets UIC’s eligibility criteria (e.g. full-time enrollment for one year, maintaining F-1 status)
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For OPT full list of requirements, please contact the admissions office.
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UIC students must maintain performance and financial compliance to preserve eligibility for OPT or status extension.
For assistance with F-1 visa guidance, UIC’s admissions office can provide step-by-step support throughout the application and visa process. Please contact uicadmissions@uinternational.edu or via Whats App at +1 (786) 734-7750
For further information on the programs United International College offers, please contact the Admissions Department at uicadmissions@uinternational.edu.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]