The sun rises with new hopes and opportunities over the bustling streets of American cities. The United States Of America is the holy grail of opportunities for OPT students who have their eyes peeled and work day and night to live a perfect lifestyle in the heart of the USA. But getting relevant work experience and getting permanent residency in the USA is not an easy feat. It takes a lot of hard work and learning to secure future employment in America.
This is where the OPT training program steps in. If you're alien to the term "OPT '' or F-1 OPT students in USA, then you've just landed in the right direction. Here's the ultimate guide to OPT training, and how it can help you to get permanent residency in your dreamland- The United States Of America.
Let's Talk More About OPT Training
First things first, the term OPT training stands for Optional Practical Training in which undergraduate and graduate students with F-1 status can work in the USA for 12 months in their relevant field. Students who are graduating or pursuing their degrees are eligible to apply for OPT training. To be eligible for OPT training, F1 students must have been enrolled in their academic program for at least one full academic year and be in good academic standing. They must also apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before they can begin working under OPT.
What Is The Time Period For OPT Training?
The standard course of OPT training can last a maximum of 12 months, but for students in the STEM area in OPT can last up to 24 months.
Who Can Apply For OPT?
In order to get selected for OPT training, a person must be an F-1 student in a full-time academic program at a qualifying institution in the United States. To be eligible for OPT, the student must have completed at least one full academic year of study (i.e., two semesters or three quarters) in the United States and must be maintaining lawful F-1 status. The OPT student in USA must also intend to work in a field directly related to their major area of study.
How To Filter The Best OPT Jobs In The USA?
The first thing is to start listing your job in the relevant field of your mastered skills. Conducting extensive research on potential job openings is also crucial in order to excel in job interviews. It may also be necessary to begin with an internship, as this provides the advantage of getting to know the company's inner workings.
Does an OPT job have to be related to a chosen field of study?
The primary objective of OPT job opportunities is to provide a temporary work permit that enables individuals to enhance their understanding and acquire skills and expertise in positions that are related to their college studies. Consequently, OPT is required to be connected to the field of study for which one's degree was obtained.
How Many Students Can Earn In The USA?
There are no exact numbers, as pay rates can vary from job position, location, and company as well. OPT students in USA can earn around $7.00 to $10 per hour, but again experience matters so never say no to internships.
How Long OPT Application Takes To Get Approved In 2023?
The process of OPT application approval can be time-consuming and lengthy. It can be more than 2 months or even longer. As per USCIS, the OPT application approval for OPT students in USA can take more than 90 to 120 days to get selected. In case if your application is taking more than 90, then it is advised that you should follow these steps, which include the following-
- Log into the USCIS website and track the process of your OPT application
- You can also register an inquiry or inform officials that your application is taking longer than usual.
- You can also try their hotline customer care line at 1800-375-5283 to take a quick follow-up of your application.
Another question that is often thrown among OPT students in USA is CPT which can be a wide-ranging topic for anyone who's just getting started with their journey for getting a suitable job in the United States Of America- That is CPT. CPT can be a topic of mystery for you, if you're just getting started. No worries we have got you covered.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a training program that is designed overseas for OPT students holding an F-1 student visa. This program is a temporary work permit for OPT students so they can do employment in their relevant field of study. Students can learn and do paid internships which will help to gain relevant exposure in their field. OPT student will have a work permit to work-full time, that is like 20 hours per week for full-time. CPT work permit is employer-specific and OPT students with F-1 visa should be graduated.
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a valuable opportunity for F1 students to gain practical work experience in the United States, in their field of study. It allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a professional setting, build a network, and potentially secure employment in the US after graduation. However, the OPT application process can be lengthy and time-consuming. Therefore, it's crucial to start early and follow up on your application status regularly. By taking advantage of this opportunity and conducting thorough job research, OPT students can pave the way for a successful career in their chosen field.
Check out entry level jobs for OPT students listed at simplyOPT portal. Enter basic resume details and search for jobs online. Reduce your time spent on finding jobs
For more info visit : https://www.simplyopt.com/search-job.html
