ISSO Webinar -- Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Fall 2023 Graduates

Columbia University ISSO

2 Oct 202351:14

EducationalLearning

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TLDRThe video script is a comprehensive guide for international students at Columbia University on the Optional Practical Training (OPT) process in the United States. It is presented by Michelle Desiccan and Alexis Zakagowan from the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). The advisors explain the OPT's benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process, emphasizing the importance of applying early and choosing the right start date for OPT to maximize employment opportunities while adhering to the 90-day unemployment limit. They also discuss the impact of OPT on travel plans and the necessity of maintaining valid travel documents. The script highlights the ISSO's resources, including an OPT calculator and webinars, to assist students in navigating the immigration regulations and making informed decisions. It also clarifies common misconceptions and provides practical advice from alumni on selecting an OPT start date, considering job offers, travel plans, and the potential need for unemployment grace periods.

Takeaways

📅 **Early Application:** Apply for OPT as soon as you are eligible to avoid delays and ensure timely processing by USCIS.
💼 **Employment Flexibility:** OPT allows for various types of employment, including self-employment, and requires at least 20 hours per week in your field of study.
🏫 **Academic Requirements:** To be eligible for OPT, you must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.
🔄 **No Change in Visa Status:** OPT is a benefit of your F1 status and does not change your visa status.
📍 **Physical Presence:** You must be physically present in the U.S. at the time of your OPT application submission.
🚫 **No Job Offer Needed:** You do not need a job offer to apply for or be approved for OPT.
🗓️ **Choosing a Start Date:** Selecting an OPT start date involves personal risk analysis and cannot be changed once submitted to USCIS.
✈️ **Travel Considerations:** If you plan to travel during OPT, ensure you have the proper documentation and consider the impact on your application status.
📝 **Documentation:** Keep records of your job search and be prepared to present them if questioned by immigration officials.
🤝 **Employer Reporting:** Once you start a job during OPT, report your employment details through Compass within 10 calendar days.
🌐 **Reliable Information:** Use the ISSO website for accurate, up-to-date information on OPT and immigration processes.

Q & A

What is OPT and how does it relate to an F1 student's status in the U.S.?
-OPT stands for Optional Practical Training. It is a benefit of F1 student status that allows eligible students to work in the U.S. in their field of study after completing their academic program. Importantly, while on OPT, the student remains in F1 status and does not change their visa status.
What are the key dates to consider when applying for OPT as a December graduate?
-The earliest date to apply for OPT is 90 days prior to the program end date, which for a December graduate would be September 23rd, 2023. The latest date by which USCIS must receive the application is 60 days after the program end date, which would be February 20th, 2024.
What are the consequences of applying late for OPT?
-Applying late for OPT could result in not being authorized for the full 12 months of OPT, as the OPT cannot end more than 14 months beyond the program end date. Additionally, there might not be enough time to resubmit the application if there are issues or delays, and the student could miss out on job opportunities.
Does a student need a job offer to apply for OPT?
-No, a student does not need a job offer to apply for OPT. OPT is not employer-specific, and students can apply even without a job offer in hand.
What is the importance of choosing the correct start date for OPT?
-Choosing the correct start date for OPT is crucial because it determines when the student can begin working. Once submitted to USCIS, this start date cannot be changed. It should take into account factors such as job offer status, travel plans, and the 90-day limit for unemployment during the OPT period.
What are the steps involved in the OPT application process?
-The OPT application process involves two main steps: first, submitting an application to the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) to receive a new I-20 with OPT information; second, submitting the application and supporting documents to USCIS for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
How can students calculate their OPT time frame?
-Students can use the OPT calculator available on the ISSO website to determine the range of dates they can choose from for their OPT start and end date.
What is the impact of international travel on OPT status?
-Traveling while on OPT can be complicated. If a student's OPT application is pending, they should remain in the U.S. until it is approved to avoid potential issues with re-entry. If the application is approved, they can travel with an EAD card, but they must still carry their valid passport and I-20.
What should students do if they have a question about their specific OPT situation?
-Students should consult the ISSO website, which has comprehensive information and resources for various scenarios. If further assistance is needed, they can book an appointment, email ISSO, or use the call center for support.
How does the job market and economy affect an F1 student's ability to apply for OPT?
-While the job market and economy are factors that students cannot control, they should focus on applying early, choosing the right start date for OPT, and utilizing the ISSO website for guidance. These actions can help mitigate potential risks and make the OPT process easier.
What is the role of the ISSO in supporting F1 students during and after their OPT application?
-The ISSO provides guidance and resources to help F1 students navigate the OPT process. They process the initial OPT I-20 application, offer a calculator for determining OPT dates, provide a platform for uploading applications, and maintain responsibility for the student's records during their OPT period.

Outlines

00:00

🎓 Introduction to OPT and Presentation Overview

The video begins with Michelle Desiccan and Alexis Zakagowan introducing themselves as international student advisors at the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). They congratulate students on completing the semester and express their eagerness to discuss Optional Practical Training (OPT). The presentation aims to familiarize students with the OPT process, making them feel confident about applying for it. The advisors emphasize the importance of the OPT for F1 visa holders seeking U.S. employment post-graduation and mention additional resources available on the ISSO webpage and upcoming webinars.

05:00

📚 Understanding OPT and Its Benefits

The presenters explain what OPT is, emphasizing that it is a benefit of F1 status, not a different visa status. OPT allows students to work in the U.S. after graduation for up to 12 months, with the possibility of a 24-month extension for STEM students. The employment must be directly related to the student's field of study, and the student is responsible for justifying this connection. The eligibility criteria for OPT are outlined, including full-time enrollment for at least one year and being in the U.S. at the time of application. The process of applying for OPT is also introduced, involving two steps: submitting an application to the ISSO and then to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

10:01

💼 The Importance of the EAD and Application Process

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is introduced as the key document for legal employment in the U.S. during OPT. The video discusses the high volume of applications received by USCIS and the importance of applying early to navigate processing times effectively. The presenters share insights into the workload at the ISSO and the factors that students can control to ensure a smoother application process. They also highlight the consequences of late application, such as reduced time for OPT due to fixed end dates and potential issues with mailing addresses.

15:01

📅 Applying Early for OPT and Its Advantages

The video stresses the importance of applying early for OPT, with a detailed timeline provided for December graduates. It outlines the earliest and latest dates for application submission and the benefits of early application, such as having time to address potential issues, receiving the EAD card sooner, and avoiding negative impacts on OPT duration. The presenters also discuss the risks of late application, including the possibility of losing part of the OPT period and the inability to resubmit an application if denied after the deadline.

20:03

🛫 Travel Considerations During OPT

The presenters address common questions about traveling during the OPT period. They clarify that students do not need a job offer to apply for OPT and emphasize applying early to avoid complications with travel plans. The video explains the risks of traveling with a pending OPT application after the program end date and advises students to wait until their OPT application is approved before traveling. It also mentions the importance of having the correct documents when re-entering the U.S. and recommends flying into specific airports with familiar Customs and Border Protection officers.

25:06

📝 Navigating the OPT Application Process

The video provides guidance on the OPT application process, including the necessity of applying from within the U.S. and the role of Columbia as the visa sponsor during OPT. It also discusses the importance of reporting employment details through Compass to the ISSO within ten days of starting a job. The presenters remind students that they are still responsible for updating their visa status and that the EAD card is not a travel document. They encourage students to use the ISSO website for reliable information and to apply early and make informed decisions about their OPT start date.

30:06

🌟 Recap and Final Reminders

The video concludes with a recap of the key points discussed, emphasizing the importance of applying early for OPT, choosing a start date wisely, and utilizing the ISSO website for guidance. It reminds students that while they cannot control external factors like the job market, they can control their application timeline and decision-making process. The presenters also highlight the availability of online USCIS applications, the option of premium processing for faster decisions, and the need to be in the U.S. at the time of application. They stress the importance of reporting employment to ISSO through Compass and staying informed through the ISSO website for any updates.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡OPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a work authorization for international students in the United States on an F1 visa. It allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months post-graduation. In the script, it is the main focus, as the presenters guide students through understanding the OPT process and its importance for their future employment opportunities in the U.S.

💡F1 Visa

An F1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa for international students who wish to study in the United States. It is mentioned in the context of the eligibility for OPT, as students must maintain their F1 status to be eligible for OPT benefits.

💡EAD Card

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that authorizes a foreigner to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis. In the script, it is emphasized as the final step in the OPT application process and is crucial for legal employment.

💡USCIS

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency that processes OPT applications and issues EAD cards. The script discusses the importance of timely submission of applications to USCIS and the processing times associated with OPT applications.

💡ISO

The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is the office at Columbia University that assists international students with immigration-related matters, including OPT. In the script, the presenters from ISO guide students through the OPT process and offer resources for further assistance.

💡SEVIS

Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a U.S. government system used to track international students and exchange visitors in the United States. It is mentioned in the context of maintaining records and reporting employment information during the OPT period.

💡Program End Date

The program end date is the official date when an academic program is completed. It is a critical factor in determining the timeline for applying for OPT, as the script explains that students can apply for OPT up to 90 days before and must apply within 60 days after this date.

💡Unemployment Period

The unemployment period during OPT refers to the allowed time an individual on OPT can be without employment while still maintaining their OPT status. The script mentions that the U.S. government provides a 90-day grace period for unemployment during the OPT period.

💡Application Timeline

The application timeline refers to the specific dates and deadlines for applying for OPT. The script emphasizes the importance of applying early, within the 90 to 60 days window relative to the program end date, to avoid potential delays and risks.

💡Travel During OPT

Travel during OPT is a topic that concerns students who plan to leave the U.S. while their OPT application is pending or approved. The script advises students to remain in the U.S. until their OPT application is approved to avoid potential issues with re-entry.

💡Job Search

Job search refers to the activities undertaken by students to find employment in their field of study. The script acknowledges that students may not have a job offer at the time of applying for OPT and provides guidance on how to document job search efforts.

Highlights

Michelle and Alexis are international student advisors at the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO), providing information on OPT (Optional Practical Training).

OPT is a benefit for F1 visa students that allows 12 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation in their field of study.

Students can apply for OPT 90 days prior to their program end date and must submit their application within 60 days after the program end date.

Applying early for OPT is crucial to avoid potential delays and to have time to address any issues with the application.

The I-20 with OPT information (called the C-OPT I-20) is the first document students receive, followed by the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) from USCIS.

USCIS processes a high volume of applications, with an average of 3 to 4 months for OPT processing.

Students must be in the U.S. at the time of OPT application submission and maintain a valid F1 status.

STEM OPT allows an additional 24 months of work authorization for eligible students after the initial 12 months of post-completion OPT.

Choosing the correct start date for OPT is critical and cannot be changed once the application is submitted to USCIS.

Factors to consider when choosing an OPT start date include job offers, travel plans, and the 90-day limit for unemployment during OPT.

The ISSO website provides comprehensive resources, including an OPT calculator, to assist students in understanding and navigating the OPT process.

It is not necessary to have a job offer to apply for OPT, and applying early can help secure the best possible start date for employment.

Travel during OPT can be complicated, and students are advised to remain in the U.S. until their OPT application is approved to avoid re-entry issues.

The ISSO provides up-to-date, accurate information on OPT, including webinars and a mobile-friendly website for easy access to resources.

Students are responsible for reporting their employment within 10 calendar days of starting a job while on OPT.

Columbia University, as the visa sponsor, requires students to report all activities and changes in status during their OPT period.

The ISSO emphasizes the importance of using the ISSO website for reliable information over personal anecdotes or advice from peers.

USCIS now offers an online application process for OPT, which is efficient and provides real-time status updates.

Premium processing is an option for an expedited decision from USCIS within 30 days, but it comes with an additional fee.

Transcripts

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