Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

What Is It?

• Employment authorization for F-1 students who have completed all course work for their academic program.
• Employment must be related to student’s field of study and can be paid or unpaid.
• Typically issued for internships or short-term employment opportunities.
• Authorized by Brooklyn College International Student and Scholar Services Office.

Duration of Employment

• Typically, 12 months of employment are granted.
• Designated STEM  majors working for eligible employers many extend (see STEM Extension Optical Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students).
• Full-time employment is allowed.

Processing Time

• One business day upon receipt of a complete OPT application.
• USCIS processing can take up to three months.

Student’s Role

• Verify eligibility for OPT.
• Submit complete and timely OPT application to USCIS in order to obtain approval prior to beginning employment.
• Report employment to the International Student and Scholar Services Office via e-mail.
• Ensure work is related to field of study.

Proof of Authorization

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD card/Form 1-766) indicating start and end dates of work authorization.
• Student must have EAD card in order to begin work.

Employer’s Role

• Request a copy of the EAD from the student for I-9 purposes.
• There is no cost to the employer, and the OPT application is entirely the responsibility of the student.
• Students can be approved for OPT without an offer of employment.