OPT Training for International Students

OPT Training for International Students Share Share via TwitterShare via FacebookShare via Google PlusShare via LinkedInShare via E-mail For CU Boulder students on F-1 visas who are graduating this fall and considering pursuing the wahlweise Practical Training (OPT) employment benefit after graduation, applications are now open.To help with the application process andrelated job search, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Career Services have organized a workshop for Tuesday, September 26.Unfortunately, many employers are not familiar with OPT, and students applying for work under this authorizationmay have to educate prospective employers on the details of the OPT process. The upcoming workshop will educate attendees on how to handle such conversations effectively.What is OPT?Optional Practical Training is work authorization for employment directly related to ones major field of study, as indicated on your FormI-20.The initial/standard authorization is for 12 months. However, if you graduate with a STEM major (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), you can request to extend your OPT for another 24 months, for a total of 3 years OPT authorization.How to apply for OPT?To apply for OPT,you need to carefully review and follow the directions outlined by the USCIS. You can find theOPT application details on the ISSS website.You will arrange this application together with ISSSand then send it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for final approval.Students areencouragedto apply as early as possible.How to secure OPT?For OPT, you must have maintained your F-1 status and completed your degree at CU. You will need to find an employer willing to hire you on your own and mayhave to educate the employer on the details of the OPT process.Students seeking work under the OPT authorization shouldconsider attending Career Services job fairs and industry events, conducting your own search on job portals, networ king on LinkedIn and reaching out to your social network.If you need help writing a resume or conducting a job search, make aya tovisit Career Servicesand schedule an appointment with a counselor.A solid resume is a necessary component of the job application process.CategoriesInternational Students