OPT Visas

[LisaT 0]

Hi!

 

Is anybody familiar with OPT Visa?

I’m currently an F1 student and was advised that I could apply for an OPT Visa after one year of full time studies. The school that I’m at advises that i need to continue to study for an Associates Degree or a Diploma which would take another 1-2 years for them to issue an OPT. According to the USCIS website there are two types: Pre Completion OPT and Post Completion. I’ve been advised that the school might not know the legal side of things but if I want to apply for this the school is the body who will authorise this? So I’m a bit confused how to proceed as I want to work as an Artist after December.
 

Anybody who can advice? 

[Boiler 45,756]

Advised by who?

 

You need to complete your degree/ obtain a certificate of completion.

[canadian_wife 1,823]

Is your diploma/ degree program art related?

 

good luck 

[Chancy 6,243]

12 hours ago, LisaT said:

I’m currently an F1 student and was advised that I could apply for an OPT Visa after one year of full time studies.

 

OPT is not a visa.  OPT is Optional Practical Training in a job related to your field of study, while you remain on F1 visa.  Your school must authorize you for OPT, so your DSO should know about the process.  Also, you must apply and be approved for EAD work permit from USCIS before you get hired for the job.