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OPT allows F-1 students to gain off-campus work experience in their field of study prior to or after graduation. Most F-1 students who have been in F-1 student status for at least 9 months or 2 semesters are eligible for up to 12 months of OPT. While on OPT, an F-1 student visa holder is still considered an Indiana University South Bend international student and must stay in contact with the Office of International Student Services (OISS). Authorization for Optional Practical Training is granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIS). Applications for OPT must be submitted prior to completion of your studies at IU South Bend. As the authorization
from CIS may take two or more months, it is important to allow
enough time to receive the card before your work start date.
While you may use Optional Practical Training part-time during the
fall or spring semesters and full time during semester breaks, most
student use their OPT full time after graduation. You are limited to a TOTAL of 12 months of OPT.
For example:
- No off-campus OPT during period of study. Eligible for
12 months full time OPT after graduation
- Full time OPT authorized after first, second and third years
of school during the summer for 3 months each year. After graduation only 3
months of full time OPT available.
- Part time OPT authorized summer before last year of school.
3 months worked. After graduation 10 and half months of
OPT available.
To apply for OPT please make an appointment to see the Assistant
Director and pick up the forms from the
OISS or download the
application and required
forms.
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