Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The deadline for Spring 2007 graduates to apply for post-completion OPT is Friday, May 11th, 2007.
Optional Practical Training is defined in the regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student's major area of study".
There are two types of OPT:
- before completion of the course of study (pre-completion OPT)
- after completion of the course of study (post-completion OPT)
A maximum of 12 months per educational level is given for OPT. Students may combine the time spent in OPT both before and after completion of studies as long as it does not exceed 12 months.
OPT applications are sent to The California Service Center, (CSC) a branch of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Currently, processing time is between 3-4 months. If an application has not been adjudicated within 90 days of receipt at the CSC, an interim EAD (Employment Authorization Document) can be issued. This temporary card is valid for a period of 8 months.
Please click on the links to obtain application instructions for OPT. Hardcopies of the instructions are also available in The Office of International Services, Serra Hall, room 316.
