Frequently Asked Questions About F-1 OPT

Do I need to have a job to apply for optional practical training?

No, but remember OPT only permits employment related to your field of study.

When may I be eligible to apply for OPT?

• During vacation periods (no restrictions on hours per week)
• During the semester (limited to 20 hours/week) and student must maintain full time enrollment
• After completion of all course requirements, excluding a thesis requirement
• After completion of a course of study (i.e. after graduation).

If I complete a degree program, take 12 months of practical training, and then begin a second course of study, am I eligible for an additional 12 months of practical training?

As of January 1, 2003, an F-1 student may become eligible for another 12 months of optional practical training when he/she moves to another educational level. This benefits, for example, a student who has used 12 months of optional training after completing a bachelor’s degree and is now completing a masters or PhD program.

What are the guidelines for the dates I chose on the OPT request form?

The OPT card is approved for specific beginning and end dates. For OPT after completion of studies or graduation, the beginning date can be no later than 60 days after the date you complete your studies.

Can I begin working before I receive the Employment Authorization Document? (EAD card)?

No. You may not begin employment before you receive your EAD from USCIS. Working before practical training has been authorized by the USCIS constitutes illegal employment and may jeopardize your legal status in the U.S.

Can I travel outside the US while my OPT application is pending at USCIS?

Travel prior to approval of your OPT is not recommended.  USCIS may render a decision stating that you have abandoned your application, thus determining it null and void.

What about traveling abroad after I have completed my studies and while I hold practical training status?

If you have completed your course of study and have received your USCIS authorization for practical training (your EAD card), you may travel abroad and re-enter the U.S. in F-1 status. You will need the following documents for your re-entry: (1) a valid passport, (2) a valid F-1 visa stamp in your passport, (3) the new SEVIS I-20 recommending optional practical training (4) your original practical training Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by the USCIS and (5) proof that you have a job in the U.S. appropriate for practical training and that you are returning to the U.S. to resume or start this employment.

If you do not have all of these documents you should NOT travel abroad without first consulting an OMIA advisor.
(An expired F-1 visa can pose a problem; it may be difficult to renew your F-1 visa while you are on practical training.)

Will I have to pay U.S. taxes for income earned while on practical training?

In general, F-1 students who have been in the U.S. for fewer than six calendar years are exempt from social security (FICA) and Medicare taxes. You should be sure to bring this to the attention of your employer, as many employers are not familiar with this provision of the tax law. You will be subject to all other taxes that may apply: federal, state and local. You should check to see if your country is one of the few that has a tax treaty with the U.S. allowing students to exclude a limited amount of earned income from federal taxation.