Optional Practical Training

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is defined as temporary employment in the chosen field of study for the purpose of gaining practical experience.

OPT employment is available to graduating F-1 students who have been lawfully enrolled full-time for a minimum of nine consecutive months. The student is eligible for a maximum of 12 months of practical training. Graduating students should apply three months prior to desired start of OPT to ensure timely processing of Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). The OPT start date must occur within 60 days of graduation. Please see the International Student and Scholar Advisor for more details.

Post-Completion OPT

Post-completion OPT is employment authorized after the student’s successful completion of studies and program end date. The process begins by scheduling an appointment with the International Student and Scholar Advisor (ISSA). To schedule an appointment with the ISSA, send three times that you are available to meet to the email address: isss@berea.edu

Students should bring the following to their appointment with the International Student and Scholar Advisor (ISSA):

Passport
Visa
Social Security Card (just in case)
All I-20’s
Copy of most recent I-94
Check or money order made out to the Department of Homeland Security
Completed OPT Application

Here is a good example of how to fill out an OPT Application.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Graduates

The Department of Homeland Security has revised the regulations about Optional Practical Training to include a 24-month post-completion extension for certain graduates of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields:

- Actuarial Science (52.1304)
- Computer Science (11.xxxx, except 11.06xx)
- Engineering (14.xxxx)
- Engineering Technologies (15.xxxx)
- Biological and Medical Sciences (26.xxxx)
- Mathematics and Statistics (27.xxxx)
- Physical Sciences (40.xxxx)
- Science Technologies (41.xxxx)
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences (51.1401)