Optional Practical Training F1F3 International Students Texas AM

Optional Practical Training F-1/F-3 International Students Texas A&M International University International Engagement, Student Center 226 (956) 326 -2282

What is Post-Completion Optional Practical Training? (OPT) • Post-completion OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to your major field of study • You must have been enrolled full time for at least one full year.

Who qualifies for postcompletion OPT? • To qualify, you must have been enrolled full-time for one consecutive academic year (e. g. , fall/spring, spring/fall) • You must be in valid immigration status • You must be in your final semester • You must be a candidate for graduation *Ph. D students pending dissertation only must make an appointment with International Engagement to discuss options.

Points to Remember • A job offer is NOT required • More than 90 days of unemployment will automatically cancel your OPT • You may work anywhere in the US • During OPT your status is F-1/F-3 • You can apply as early as 90 days before your program end date and 30 days after your program completion • Once you complete your degree, you cannot work on/off campus until you receive your OPT card • The average OPT application processing time is 90 days so you are encouraged to apply early *F-3 visa holders cannot reside in the US, there for you are limited to the Laredo area

OPT Timeline Earliest you can apply for OPT Your OPT can start the day after graduation or as late as 60 days after you graduate 90 days before graduation 60 days after graduation Graduation (last day of semester) 30 days after graduation is the latest you can apply for OPT During 60 day period you must begin a new program of study, transfer to another school, or depart to your home country OPT expires; 60 day grace period begins End of 60 day grace period

How to Apply • Setup an appointment with International Engagement • Bring the following to your appointment: • • • Visa Passport I-94 (click here for Electronic I-94) Two recent passport size photos Complete Form I-765 Money order in the amount of $380 made out to “Department of Homeland Security” • Complete the OPT Request Form

I-765 Check the box “Permission to accept employment”

I-765 Last name must be in all CAPS You can use IE address or you can use your own. IE will mail out your EAD card. Enter your I-94 number (www. cbp. gov/i 94)

I-765 Office filed and dates approved Date and place of last entry If you answer yes, answer the following questions Enter student

I-765 Enter (C) (3) (B) number Remember to sign your application

After you Apply • Your application may take up to 90 days for a decision to be made • United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) will send you an I-797 Notice of Action receipt. • Visit My Case Status to track your application once you receive your I-797 • You may not begin employment until you receive your EAD card.

Reporting Requirements Report the following within 10 days: • Your name • Your residential address • Your phone and email address • Employer name • Employer address • Start date of employment • Any periods of unemployment • Date of exiting the U. S. (You need to provide date of exit if you decide to exit the U. S and complete your OPT status prior to the end date of your OPT) *Follow the link to report any changes OPT Reporting Requirements

After OPT Once you complete you OPT you must choose from the following: • Begin a new program of study at TAMIU • Transfer to another SEVP approved school • Depart to your home country

Contact Information International Engagement Office of Student Affairs Student Center 226 956. 3262282 iss@tamiu. edu