F-1 Employment Authorization Information
Optional Practical Training
For information on pre and post Optional Practical Training, please read the following information guides.
If you have any questions regarding OPT, contact an ISC advisor to discuss your specific questions prior to attending an OPT Application Meeting.
F-1 Practical Training Information and Guide
OPT 17 Month Extension Information and Guide
To apply for Optional Practical Training you must attend an OPT Application Meeting at the ISC. You must bring your passport, your current I-20, all of your previous I-20s, I-94, photos*, and $380 check made out to "Department of Homeland Security" to the meeting. You will fill out the paperwork for optional practical training, and meet with an advisor to review your application.
* US passport style photos are required.
For photo information: http://travel.state.gov/
You must be on time for the OPT Application Meeting. Students arriving late will be asked to attend the next meeting.
OPT Application Meetings
DAY |
DATE |
TIME |
Thursday |
April 26 |
2:00 P.M. |
Thursday |
May 3 |
9:00 A.M. |
Monday |
May 7 |
2:00 P.M. |
Wednesday |
May 16 |
10:00 A.M. (First Meeting for Summer 2012 Graduates ) |
Tuesday |
May 22 (cancelled) |
1:30 P.M. |
Tuesday |
May 29 |
2:00 P.M. |
Monday |
June 4 |
10:00 A.M. |
Thursday |
June 14 |
10:00 A.M. |
Thursday |
June 21 |
9:00 A.M. |
Monday |
June 25 |
1:30 P.M. |
Tuesday |
July 3 |
1:30 P.M. |
Thursday |
July 12 |
10:00 A.M. |
Monday |
July 16 |
1:30 P.M. (Last Meeting For Spring 2012 Graduates) |
Wednesday |
July 18 |
9:00 A.M. |
Monday |
July 23 |
2:00 P.M. |
Thursday |
August 2 |
1:30 P.M. |
Wednesday |
August 8 |
10:00 A.M. |
Tuesday |
August 14 |
2:00 P.M. |
Post OPT Work Visas
Many students are interested in changing their visa status to continue working after their OPT ends. Each Spring semester the ISC hosts a lawyer specializing in immigration law who gives a presentation on H-1b and Permanent Residence. You can access this year's presentation (in pdf) by clicking HERE
Curricular Practical Training
Students applying for CPT must have the CPT recommendation letter from the department chair or graduate advisor, and be enrolled in the CPT course (if required).
No appointment is required. The ISC advisors will meet with students during the walk-in
times listed below:
Every Wednesday from 1:30 P.M. - 3:30 P.M.