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OPT Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization that is related to an F-1 student’s academic program.  The application process takes approximately three months.

While on OPT:

You are still considered to be in F-1 student status while on OPT, so any questions or concerns can be addressed by an ISS advisor during this time.

You must continue to verify your address information in SEVIS within 10 days if there has been a change. 

If you change to a different visa status, please inform ISS so that your records can be updated.

If you terminate your OPT early, please inform ISS so that your records can be updated.

You will probably be required to pay federal, state and local taxes. For more information, please contact the Internal Revenue Service.



Travel on OPT:

You may travel while on OPT. However, please keep in mind that you are still in F-1 status and that you will need the following in order to re-enter the United States:

  • A valid travel signature on your most current I-20 (within 5 months of re-entry)
  • Your unexpired EAD or I-797 receipt notice
  • A letter from your employer indicating that you currently hold a job in your field of study and will be returning to the U.S. to resume employment
  • A valid passport
  • A valid F-1 visa
If you are interested in applying for an OPT Extension, please click here.




© 2008, SIUE | http://www.siue.edu/iss/opt/index.shtml | Last modified on 10/07/08 14:30:14