15 Applications for OPT are subject to the approval of USCIS. Since applications may take up to 90 days for processing by USCIS, it is suggested that you apply 90 days before the intended employment. During the processing time, students may not leave the U.S. or engage in unauthorized employment. If a student’s address changes after he/she submits his/her OPT application and before he/she receives the EAD card, the student must submit an AR-11 form. This can be completed online on the USCIS website. The U.S. Postal Service will not forward government mail. It is recommended you use an address of a friend or family member with whom you will keep in contact. What to report while on OPT: • Change of name • Change of address • Beginning of new employment - The student must provide a letter from the employer with the title, job description and beginning date of employment. A sample letter is available at the Office of International Services. • Change of job/job loss • Current employer, employer’s address and student’s current address every six months Students are also responsible for maintaining legal F-1 student status while employed (including health insurance). While completing post-graduation OPT, a DSO travel signature expires every six months. Note: Please email Chandra VanAken to make an appointment for the following: Immigration questions or concerns. Apply for CPT/OPT. Questions or concerns regarding CPT/OPT/AT. Grace Periods Completion of the Degree Program or OPT Upon completing a degree program, a student and dependent(s) must leave the U.S. within 60 days. Once the student and dependent(s) leave the U.S., they lose the remaining time on the grace period. During the 60-day grace period students CANNOT: • Apply for admission in the U.S. in F-1 status • Ask for a program extension • Work or study • Leave and re-enter the U.S. However, students CAN: • Apply for Post-Completion OPT • Travel within the U.S. Trine University promotes intellectual and personal development through professionally focused and formative learning opportunities, preparing students to succeed, lead and serve.
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