If you are graduating in Fall 2011 (undergraduates and graduate students) and would like to apply for OPT (employment authorization), you MUST complete and submit an application to USCIS 90 days prior to the end of the semester.

NOTE: Register to attend an OPT workshop.  Both group and individual meetings are available on the dates listed below.

Definition of OPT

• Temporary employment for practical training that is directly related to the student's major area of study and commensurate with the degree level
• Allows a maximum of 12 months of practical experience
• Students do not need to secure employment before applying for OPT
• Requires USCIS approval
• Student must show proof of employment and/or structure or supervised work (in the field of study) within 90 days of the beginning day listed in the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Pre-conditions for OPT

• Students may engage in OPT after being enrolled for at least one full academic year
• OPT is available before and after completion of the educational objective, but different rules apply to pre- and post-completion OPT
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months into the future
• Use of full-time CPT for one year (12 months) makes you ineligible for OPT

Pre-completion OPT

• 20 hours/week limit while school is in session and the student still has coursework to complete
• Over 20 hours/week during official school breaks as long as the student is currently enrolled, and intends to register for next term (full-time)
• Only graduate students can apply for pre-completion OPT
• Undergraduate students are not eligible for pre-completion OPT

Post-completion OPT

• Over 20 hours/week after student has completed all course requirements for the degree while completing a thesis or dissertation
• Only full-time OPT can be requested
• Undergraduate students can request OPT only after completion of the course of study
• Graduate students can apply for OPT after completion of the course of study while completing the thesis, dissertation or equivalent work.

NOTE: Must sign-up 2 days prior to the workshop. Notification will not be sent if the workshops are cancelled if no-one signs up on time.

Workshop Dates for Fall 2011
Location: International Center

For questions and/or individual meetings concerning Curricular Practical Training (CPT), contact:

Amie Limon: amie_limon@mail.uri.edu

For questions and/or individual meetings concerning Optical Practical Training (OPT), contact:

International Center: issoff@etal.uri.edu

For questions and/or individual meetings concerning Academic Training appointments, contact:

International Center: issoff@etal.uri.edu

Appointment Request for OPT Workshop

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