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Optional Practical Training Information

Optional Practical Training for F-1 students is intended to provide practical work experience directly related to the academic program. An F-1 student is eligible for a MAXIMUM OF 12 MONTHS of this type of training at the undergraduate level. It is important to note, that part-time optional practical training (20 hours per week or less) is deducted from the available training at one-half the full-time rate.

This type of training is available to students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis in F-1 status for at least one full academic year. While on optional practical training, individuals are still considered to be F-1 students at Earlham even though they may be working elsewhere in the United States. Optional practical training is available in the following cases:

• Part-time or full-time during the student’s annual vacation and at other times when school is not in session, if the student intends to register for the next term of the session;
  
• Part-time while school is in session;
  
• Full-time after completion of the course of study.

* Students should think carefully about utilizing practical training based on options 1 or 2. Please consult with an international student advisor for further information.

** Students applying based on option #3 (after completion of the course of study) must complete the entire application procedure prior to completion of the course of study. In order to benefit from the full one-year of practical training students should submit their application to BCIS at least 30 days prior to graduation. This is because all work must be completed within 14 months of graduation and the processing time for the application is at least 90 days. Students are encouraged, however, to submit their application as early as possible in their final semester of study in order to avoid delays in processing.

Application Procedure

Part 1: Submit the following to IPO
The application process for Employment authorization is complex and requires several forms, and involves steps that must be completed by an international student advisor. In order to make the process as smooth as possible, prepare the following in consultation with an international student advisor.

• Completed Form I-538
  
• Completed Form I-765
  (available online at http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-765.pdf and instructions are available online at http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-765instr.pdf)
  
• Form I-20
  
• Valid passport and current Form I-94
• Photocopies of all previous I-20s for current academic level

Part 2: Creation of new SEVIS I-20
After reviewing the material listed above and confirming eligibility, the international student advisor in IPO will recommend to BCIS that practical training permission be granted by certifying in SEVIS that the proposed employment is directly related to the student’s major area of study and commensurate with the student’s educational level. The international student advisor will then print a new SEVIS I-20 indicating that practical training is being requested within the established guidelines. The international student advisor will keep the copy of the I-538 in IPO as a permanent record.

Part 3: Submit the following to BCIS
Since students may not legally begin working until an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) has been issued by BCIS, the student must then apply by mail to BCIS, Lincoln Nebraska for this document. The following materials must be included in your application:

• Completed Form I-765 with current filing fee in form of check or money order, made out to US Department of Homeland Security
  
• Photocopy of both sides of Form I-94
  
• Two photos according to specifications of Form I-765
  (photos must meet U.S. Travel Document Guidelines)
  
• Photocopy of previous Employment Authorization Document when applicable
  
• Photocopy of SEVIS I-20 with the international student advisor’s recommendation for practical training
  
• Photocopy of information page of passport
• Photocopies of all previous I-20s

BCIS will adjudicate the Form I-765 and issue an EAD on the basis of the international student advisor’s recommendation, unless the student is found otherwise ineligible.

Part 4: Submit a photocopy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to IPO:
BCIS requires that a copy of this document be kept in your student file.

Special Note: Students who wish to make a trip outside of the United States while on practical training after graduation should consult an international student advisor.