What is OPT? Why is it important for international students at American institutions?

Optional Practical Training is a period in which the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows international undergraduate and graduate students with F-1 visas to stay in the U.S. after graduation. It consists of granting temporary citizenship to international students who are completing or have completed their academic degrees so that they may obtain training, work experience and in some cases financial compensation.

What is it for?

OPT is used to be able to work and perform full-time internships for one year after graduation from college. It is not a permanent residency document. At the end of this year you must apply for some kind of work visa.

When should you start?

We recommend to start the process at least one semester before the student’s graduation in order to fulfill all the requirements. The earlier the better.

Duration of the process:

6-8 months

Cost:

$380 to be paid to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the form of a check or money order

Some of our partners have gone through the OPT process and enjoyed this time frame. Contact us!