Optional Practical Training is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). Pre-completion OPT is deducted from the 12 months of OPT available each degree level.
*Pre-completion OPT at Jessup is rare: most students save OPT to use after program completion.*
STAGE 1: Understand Your Eligibility
STAGE 1: Understand Your Eligibility
To be eligible for OPT, students must:
be in full-time F-1 status for at least one academic year.
be seeking employment in the major field of study listed on their current Jessup I-20.
be completing their program of study at Jessup.
be physically present in the United States at time of the application to USCIS.
NOT have used more than 1 year of full-time CPT during their current degree level.
NOT have used OPT for the same educational level.
STAGE 2: Apply for OPT
STAGE 2: Apply for OPT
The application process involves both Jessup ISSO and USCIS, and can take a few months. OPT applications must be received in a specific time frame and the application can be rather complex. We require our students to carefully review Jessup's OPT Eligibility Form and the OPT application process for full details before applying for OPT.
Review and Sign the OPT Eligibility Form, and send it to isso@jessup.edu to request an OPT I-20.
The requested start date must be within 60 days of your program end date. It can be as early as the day after your completion date and up to 60 days after that.
It is not guaranteed that you will be approved for the start date you request. The approved start date will appear on your EAD card and may be later than your requested start date.
Review the OPT application process.
STAGE 3: After Approval
STAGE 3: After Approval
CONGRATULATIONS!! Your Post-completion OPT is approved. Now What?
You can start working on the start date of your approved EAD card. You must have the EAD card in hand to start working. While on OPT, students must follow certain rules and regulations to maintain their F-1 status in the U.S.
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