Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization (See, Code of Federal Regulations ). A job offer is not required. The employment must be related to the student's field of study and commensurate with the educational level. A year or more of previously authorized full-time Curricular Practical Training and periods of authorized part-time or full-time OPT will be subtracted from the possible year of OPT. A student may be authorized for 12 months of practical training, and will become eligible for another 12 months practical training when he/she changes to a higher educational level. OPT must be completed within a 14-month period following completion of program. See an ISS Advisor for details. Students in an intensive English-language training program are not eligible for Practical Training.

A student may submit a complete application (all the required documents listed on reverse side) to an advisor at International Student Services (ISS) Office prior to the completion of all course requirements for the degree (this applies for undergraduate and master's non-thesis option students) or prior to the completion of course of study (this applies for students in thesis programs). Students must then mail the application to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Service Center for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The application must be received by the appropriate Service Center before the student's completion date (i.e. issuance of a letter of completion or graduation, whichever occurs first) .

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