DO's and DONT'S of OPT and CPT Employment

Below I will be listing a few things which you should do and should not do while you are working on your OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT ( Curricular Practical Training) . 

DO's

(1) Ensure that you do not exceed the 90 days of unemployment for the post completion OPT ( or initial OPT) and 120 days of unemployment for OPT STEM Extension.

(2) Student must report to his/her DSO within 10 days of his job change. Also report if you move to a new address.

(3) The earlier the better. You can apply for your Post completion OPT 90 days before your graduation day. 

Read about EAD card here 

(4) Also you can apply for your OPT STEM extension 120 days before your Post completion OPT expires.

(5) Work at least 20 hours a week and your employer should be e verified if you want to work on OPT STEM Extension. Also keep in mind that your job should be directly related to your STEM major.

(6) If you do not receive your EAD after 75 days of applying , then you can call USCIS and ask to expedite your case.

(7) Always keep all your documentation ( I-20's etc) in one place. Keep documentation of all your jobs you have worked ( CPT or OPT) . Keeps documents like offer letters, pay stubs, I-20's , employment verification letters etc.

DONT's

(1) Work for an employer without informing your school.

(2) Work in an off campus job.

(3)  Work in a position which is not directly related to your major

(4) Work for an employer which is not E-Verified while you are working on your OPT Stem Extension

(5) Have more than 90 days of unemployment on your Initial OPT and more than 120 days of unemployment on OPT STEM Extension

Follow the above tips to stay in status and out of trouble.

I hope the above information helps. If you have something to add to it , do leave a comment below. Don't forget to like our facebook page for latest updates. Also follow us on Twitter.

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