Definitions & Frequently Asked Questions
» F-1 General Information: Immigration Definitions and Abbreviations
» F-1 General Information: SEVIS & F-1 Immigration Documents
» F-2 Dependent(s)
» Enrollment Definitions
» Enrollment FAQs
» Travel Definitions
» Travel FAQs
» Transfer Definitions
» Transfer FAQs
» Employment
» Curricular Practical Training (CPT) - General FAQs
» Undergraduate CPT FAQs
» Graduate CPT FAQs
» Optional Practical Training (OPT) FAQs
F-1 General Information (Immigration Definitions and Abbreviations)
SEVIS - Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. SEVIS is a federal database system for maintaining and tracking records for F-1 students.
It is important to note that just as we activate your SEVIS record, we also have to end it. Once your program is completed (you finished or ended your studies and are going home, or graduated and requested authorization for practical training which has expired), we also have to report your completion through SEVIS. If you fall out of legal nonimmigrant status, we are required to terminate your SEVIS record (Note: “Termination” is technical language used in SEVIS to note ending a record for a reason other than program completion).
While the IC is required by federal law to report data to the DHS, via the SEVIS website, this does not make the International Center an enforcement arm of the DHS. Your meetings with an International Center advisor are private and confidential. We are committed to helping all our international students maintain their status and have an enriching and rewarding experience at FSU.
SEVIS ID Number - Each F-1 status student has a unique SEVIS Identification Number. Your SEVIS ID number is located above the bar code on page 1 of your I-20.
SEVP - Student and Exchange Visitor Program
USCIS - United States Citizenship and Immigration Service
USCBP - United States Customs and Border Protection
USICE - United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement
DHS - Department of Homeland Security
DOS - Department of State
Passport - Your passport must be valid at all times. It MUST be valid for at least six months into the future any time you enter the US from abroad. Passports may be renewed in the US or in your home country. To renew your passport in the US, contact the Embassy or Consulate of your country in the United States. You can find the addresses and phone numbers of Consulates and Embassies at www.embassy.org.
Visa - The F-1 visa is a sticker in your passport that is issued by a US Consulate or Embassy abroad to allow you to apply for entry to the US. The visa may be issued for multiple entries (M) or a specific number of entries. You cannot apply for a US visa or a visa renewal while you are inside the U.S., but only be requested at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. An extension of your I-20 does not automatically extend your F-1 visa.
IMPORTANT: The validity period of the F 1 visa does NOT indicate how long you may remain in the United States. Your visa stamp is the only immigration document that can be allowed to expire while you are in the US. If your visa has expired, you may remain in the US as long as you maintain lawful F 1 status (see the section on Maintaining your F-1 Status) and your I-20 is unexpired. If you have an expired visa stamp, you will probably need to renew your visa before your re-entry to the US.
I-94 - Arrival/Departure record. This is the small white card, usually stapled to the passport, which is filled out before entering the US. The top of this card shows your 11-digit Admission Number (or I-94 number). The I-94 is proof of your legal entry and/or exit from the US. You receive a new I-94 on each entry to the US, and will give up your I-94 each time you exit. Upon arrival the I-94 is always stamped noting:
- Port of Entry
- Arrival date
- Status: This MUST be F-1!
- Length of stay: This should read D/S for “Duration of Status”.
I-20 Form - This is the Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Status issued by FSU through SEVIS. The I-20 is the main immigration document, and it indicates the specifics of your program of study. All information on the I-20 must be accurate and up to date at all times. If any of the information changes, please update the IC as soon as possible. You will generally be issued a new I-20 form each time an update is made. If your I-20 form is ever lost or stolen, please notify an immigration advisor immediately so that the I-20 can be replaced.
Financial Support Documents - These demonstrate your ability to finance your education; they can be in the form of bank statements, assistantship letters, scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of funding. You may use personal funds or funds from a sponsor.
I-515A - If you arrive at the port of entry without proper student documents (e.g., you left your I-20 in the luggage you checked, or you only had a copy rather than the original), the immigration officer will probably give you a Form I-515A with instructions to send your I-20 to the SEVP office in Washington, D.C. The officer will only admit you to the US for 30 days. (Look at your I-94 and you should see a date, rather than “D/S”.)
Please see an international student advisor at the IC if you receive the I-515A form. An advisor will help you send the correct documents to SEVP.
F-2 Dependent - Child or spouse dependent of an F-1.
Termination - technical language used in SEVIS to note ending a record for a reason other than degree program completion. Termination can be positive (example: Authorized Early Withdrawal) or negative ( example: Unauthorized drop below full course of study).
F-1 General Information FAQs (SEVIS & F-1 Immigration Documents)
What does my SEVIS record do? How does it work?
When a new international student is issued a new Form I-20 to enter the U.S. for the first time as an F-1 visa status student, a corresponding SEVIS record is created for that student. Each F-1 status student has a unique SEVIS Identification Number. Your SEVIS record contains the biographical, academic and financial information that is on your I-20. Once you register for classes at Florida State, the IC reports on your attendance at FSU by registering your SEVIS record. This changes the SEVIS record status from Initial to Active. During the course of your studies, the IC must monitor your record each semester and report any changes. The IC is also required each semester to verify that you are in-status and eligible to continue. Each semester you will be registered again in SEVIS as an Active student.
Does the FSU International Center (or my F-1 advisor) work for immigration?
International Center advisors are employees of Florida State University- not the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While the IC is required by federal law to report data to DHS, via the SEVIS website, this does not make the International Center an enforcement arm of the DHS. Your meetings with an International Center advisor are private and confidential. We are committed to helping all our international students maintain their status and have an enriching and rewarding experience at FSU.
What information do I have to report to SEVIS? How do I report this information?
It is the students' responsibility to report any changes in their record to the International Center, using the forms provided here. The IC is required to report on any change in:
- legal name
- country of citizenship
- physical address
- academic information (including major, secondary major, degree working toward, and graduation)
- funding
- enrollment (including reducing courseload or withdrawal from FSU)
- immigration status
- dependents
We also enter into SEVIS such requests:
- extensions (of your program end date on your I-20)
- a change of level (second degree at the same level or a higher degree level)
- practical training
- transfer to another SEVIS-approved school.
When does my SEVIS record end?
It is important to note that just as we activate your SEVIS record, we also have to end it. Once your program of study is completed (you finished or ended your studies and are going home, or graduated and requested authorization for practical training which has expired), we also have to report your completion through SEVIS. If you withdraw from your degree program early, change your immigration status, or if you fall out of legal F-1 status, we are required to terminate your SEVIS record. (Note: “Termination” is technical language used in SEVIS to note ending a record for a reason other than degree program completion.)
What does “D/S” or “Duration of Status” mean?
This means that you are allowed to stay in the US as long as you are engaged in the activity for which you were issued an F‑1 visa and are otherwise maintaining legal non-immigrant status according to the US government rules for F‑1 students. ( F-1 status may be extended shortened, depending on your plans and course of study in the US.)
My F-1 visa will expire next month! Do I have to leave the US?
NO. The F-1 visa sticker in your passport is only used for entry purposes. It does not determine your status inside the United States. The I-20 and I-94 determine your status in the US. As long as your I-20 and I-94 are not expired, and you properly maintaining F-1 status through your degree program or post-completion Practical Training, you can stay in the US. But, if you exit the US, you can only return using an unexpired F-1 visa.( Exception: see Automatic Revalidation.)
Can I extend my I-20 in the US? What about my F-1 visa?
Your FSU International Center advisor can update all information on your I-20, including the ending date. However, your F-1 visa can only be renewed OUTSIDE of the US, in an embassy or consulate abroad. There is no US location for renewing visas. ( See Travel section and FAQs)
What is the difference between F-1 and F-2 status?
F-2 status has different and more restrictive rules than the F-1 status.
- F-2 dependents are NOT authorized for ANY kind of employment.
- F-2 dependents are only allowed “avocational or recreational” study. (This is interpreted to mean no full-time or degree seeking study.)
- F-2 dependent children may attend school (Kindergarten-12th Grade)
- F-2 status is dependent on the F-1’s status. If the F-1 is in proper immigration status, the F-2 is considered to be in-status as well. If the F-1 falls out of status, the F-2 does as well.
- If the F-1 decides to stop studying and leave the US, or exits the US for more than 5 months, the F-2 dependent can no longer maintain status.
What things does the F-2 status have in common with the F-1 status?
- An F-2 status holder has similar documents- an F-2 dependent I-20, an F-2 visa, an I-94 with “D/S” notation.
- An F-2 status holder must also have the I-20 signed for travel when exiting and re-entering the US.
- The F-2 must also have a valid F-2 visa in order to re-enter the US.
What can F-2 spouses do if they can’t work or study full-time?
F-2s do have more limited options, but here are some examples of activities that are allowed:
- Participate in volunteer organizations
- Study part-time as a non-degree student
- Take classes which are “avocational or recreational”- for example cooking, art, English lessons, driving lessons
- IC Events & Workshops
- Travel
Full Course Load, Full Course of Study or Full-Time Enrollment - All of these terms refer to the minimum number of hours required to maintain F-1 immigration status.
Reduced Course Load (RCL) - If dropping below full-time enrollment, an F-1 students must be authorized by the International Center for an RCL in order to maintain proper F-1 status.
What is considered full-time enrollment during the Summer semester for undergraduates and graduates?
If enrolled in.
- Session A: 9 credit hours
- Session B or C alone: 6 credit hours
- Any combination of sessions: 9 credit hours
Can international students ever drop below a full course of study during the Fall and Spring semesters?
Possibly. Federal immigration regulations allow undergraduate and graduate students to request reduced enrollment based on certain reasons:
- Initial difficulty with the English language or reading requirements
- Unfamiliarity with US teaching methods
- Improper course level placement
- Medical condition defined by a licensed physician or psychologist/psychiatrist
- Final Semester
How can I receive a Reduced Course Load (RCL) authorization?
You should first make an appointment with your F-1 advisor to be sure that an RCL is appropriate for your situation.
- To request an RCL based on academic reasons (1-3), please submit the Reduced Course Load for Academic Reasons Form.
- To request an RCL based on medical reasons, submit the Medical Reduced Course Load Form along with a letter from a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or a licensed clinical psychologist.
- To request an RCL for your Final Semester, submit a Final Term Form and submit it before the end of the 2nd week of classes in the final semester of enrollment.
What if I am not eligible for an RCL? Do I have any other options to protect my F-1 status and GPA?
An F-1 student may not be allowed to go below the required immigration minimums without jeopardizing his or her immigration status. But, there still might be some “creative” solutions available to avoid damage to the GPA without causing F-1 status problems. Here are some suggestions to discuss with your academic advisor in your major department if an RCL is not available:
- Equal add/drop - If you can add an equal number of hours to the schedule, we could allow the drop with the equal hour add to keep the registration at the immigration minimum.
- Incomplete - Taking an Incomplete grade in a course does not jeopardize the student’s F-1 immigration status, as it doesn’t change the enrollment hours. But, your should be aware of what will be needed to remove the incomplete later, and possible consequences if these requirements are not completed. (This requires making arrangements with the course professor.)
- Retro-Active Withdrawal - In this case a student completes the course and receives a grade. With recommendation from the professor and approval of the Academic Dean the course can be retro-actively dropped from the schedule. This will not affect the immigration record, as we consider that the student was fully enrolled during the semester and only dropped the credit afterward.
- S/U Grade - In a few cases, a professor has agreed to make the course into an S/U grade, rather than a letter grade, which saved the drop in GPA. This also required approval from the course professor and the Academic Dean. Of course, this could cause future problems if the course is a degree requirement.
Can I enroll in more than a full course load in one semester, and then later enroll in less than full time? (Can I save my extra hours for other semesters?)
NO. The full course load enrollment hours are required each semester. You cannot save up extra hours. If you enroll in more than the required hours, that is your individual choice.
I’m a PhD student and I have completed my 24 dissertation hour requirement. (Or I am a Master’s student who has completed 6 thesis hours.) How many hours am I required to enroll?
After you’ve completed your 24 dissertation hours (or 6 thesis hours for Master’s students), 3 hours is considered full time for immigration purposes. In your final semester, 2 hours is considered full time. However, if you receive an assistantship, you may still be required to enroll in more hours to continue your funding.
I’m a PhD student and I have completed my 24 dissertation hour requirement. (Or I am a Master’s student who has completed 6 thesis hours.) Can I just enroll in undergraduate hours until I finish? (They are cheaper than graduate hours!)
NO. You should be enrolled at the appropriate graduate level until you complete your degree.
It’s my final semester. Can I take all online classes to finish my degree?
NO. In your final semester you cannot have all 100% online classes. You must be enrolled in some face-to-face hours.
Port of Entry - This is the place in which you enter the US and go through Immigration and Customs. This is where your documents are examined and your I-94 is stamped with the date, Port of Entry name, your visa status and the length of your stay.
Travel Signature - Your I-20 has spaces for travel signatures on the bottom of page 3. Only an FSU International Center advisor is authorized to sign. The signature verifies that you are currently maintaining proper F-1 status and are eligible for re-entry to the US after travel.
Automatic Visa Revalidation - This special rule allows individuals travelling only to Canada, Mexico, or the adjacent islands to re-enter the US using an expired visa. Your travel must be no more than 30 days. Additional rules for eligibility apply, so be sure to check with an IC advisor for more information if you will need to use this provision.
Adjacent Islands (see Automatic Visa Revalidation listed above) - Anguilla, Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Barbuda, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Marie-Galante, Martinique, Miquelon, Montserrat, Saba, Saint-Barthelemy, Saint Christopher, Saint Eustatius, Saint Kitts-Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Maarten, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre, Saint Vincent, Grenadines, Trinidad, Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Other British, French and Netherlands territory or possessions bordering on the Caribbean Sea.
I’m going home for the summer break. What do I need to take with me when travelling?
You will need to bring your I-20, signed for travel within the last 6 months; Passport (should be valid for at least 6 months into the future); Unexpired F-1 visa ; Information on any medications that you are carrying with you during travel
I’m travelling outside of the US, but my F-1 visa is currently expired. What do I do?
You can only renew your F-1 visa at an embassy or consulate abroad. You’ll need to be sure to plan your travel with enough time to obtain a visa renewal. We recommend renewing your visa in your home country, if possible. You will need to bring your I-20, passport, FSU Official Transcript, Certification of Enrollment , updated proof of funding, and proof of ties to your home country.
Can I renew my F-1 visa inside the US?
NO. You can only obtain an F-1 visa or F-1 visa renewal at an embassy or consulate abroad.
My F-1 visa will expire next month! Do I have to leave the US?
NO. The F-1 visa sticker in your passport is only used for entry purposes. It does not determine your status inside the United States. The I-20 and I-94 determine your status in the US. As long as your I-20 and I-94 are not expired, and you are properly maintaining F-1 status through your degree program or post-completion Practical Training, you can stay in the US. But, if you exit the US, you can only return using an unexpired F-1 visa. (Exception: see Automatic Revalidation.)
When should I request a travel signature for my I-20?
You can request a travel signature during F-1 Advising Walk-In Hours OR you can also drop off your I-20 form at the IC Front Desk. (Walk-in signature I-20s will be signed in the same day. If you drop off your I-20, the signature may take 3-7 business days. Please plan accordingly and do NOT wait until the last minute.)
Help! I forgot to get my I-20 signed, and I have already left the US! What do I do?
Please contact your IC Advisor immediately. She can advise you on re-entry and possibly provide a letter of explanation for you to carry with you. If the university is closed for an extended holiday, please call the International Center Front Desk for emergency contact instructions at 850-644-1702.
I have returned from travelling, and notice that my I-94 has a strange notation on it OR was not marked F-1 D/S. What should I do?
Please contact your IC Advisor immediately.
I’m going on a cruise to the Caribbean for Spring Break. Do I need a travel signature?
YES. You always need a travel signature that is valid within 6 months if you are exiting the US and plan to return- even on a boat! Also, most international cruises will require proof of your ability to return to the US after the trip. If you do not have a valid travel signature, you may not even be allowed in the boat.
My F-1 visa has expired, but I want to travel for a short trip to Mexico, Canada, or one of the “Adjacent Islands”. Do I have to renew my F-1 visa before I return?
PROBABLY NOT. If you travel to Mexico, Canada, or one of the “Adjacent Islands” for less than 30 days, you may be eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation. Talk to your IC Advisor for more information on this special rule and the necessary documents.
SEVIS release date/ Transfer release date - This is the date on which your SEVIS record is electronically transferred to the new school.
What does the FSU International Center need to transfer my SEVIS record to another school?
We require a SEVIS Transfer-Out Form. Each section is REQUIRED to be completed and a copy of an official letter of admission from the new school. Contact your new school to see if they require a Transfer Verification Form (a form to be filled out by your F-1 advisor at the FSU International Center and faxed to new school to confirm your immigration status).
Do transfer students have to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again?
No. You are considered a continuing student in SEVIS.
Do transfer students have to apply for a new visa?
No. If your F-1 visa is still valid, you do not need to get a new visa. The notation of the school's name on your visa becomes irrelevant. If your visa is expired, you will need to apply for a new F-1 visa before returning to the U.S. only after traveling abroad.
How long do F-1 transfer students have to transfer to another school after graduating from FSU or after the end of post-completion OPT Employment authorization?
Students must have their SEVIS record transferred from FSU to the new school within the 60 day grace period following program completion or the end of OPT. Therefore, the SEVIS Release Date that you choose must fall within that grace period.
Once my SEVIS record is transferred, how soon must I begin classes at the transfer-in school?
You must begin classes at the new school within 5 months of your transfer release date, your program completion date, OR your OPT end date, whichever is earlier.
When must I stop working part-time on campus at FSU if transferring to another school?
You are only authorized to work on the campus of the school that holds your SEVIS record. You must end on-campus employment at FSU on the SEVIS Transfer Release Date. Once the record has been electronically transferred, it will be only with the new school, making you ineligible for work at FSU.
If I am on CPT or post-completion OPT, when must I stop working?
You must stop working on the SEVIS release date or the end of your CPT or OPT authorization, whichever is earlier.
Can I change my mind about transferring to another school BEFORE my SEVIS Transfer Release Date?
Yes. You will need to contact your advisor at the FSU International Center as soon as possible.
Can I change my mind about transferring to another school AFTER my SEVIS Transfer Release Date?
This gets more complicated and can result in a delay in your plans. Contact your IC advisor immediately for more information.
On-Campus Employment
Am I allowed to work ON-CAMPUS at FSU without special authorization?
YES. As an F-1 student, you are authorized to work ON-CAMPUS for up to 20 hours per week during your program of study. You do not need any special authorizations for this type of employment. BUT, your authorization for on-campus employment ends with your degree completion.
So, I’m allowed to work on-campus until I finish my degree program. How many hours per week can I work?
You may only work up to 20 hours per week during Spring and Fall semesters. You may work more than 20 hours per week ONLY during school breaks (Spring Break, Winter holidays, between semesters) OR during a Summer semester in which you are not enrolled full-time. Always check with your IC advisor, if you have any questions.
Can I have more than one on-campus job? How many hours can I work with each job?
YES, you can have more than one on-campus employer. However, during Spring and Fall semesters (or Summer if you are enrolled full-time) your TOTAL on-campus work hours cannot be more than 20. So, If you have 1 job at the Library for 15 hours, you would only be able to work 5 more hours in another position. Remember- you can work more than 20 hours during school breaks or Summer (if not enrolled full-time).
But my department wants me to work 30 hours during Spring semester. My major professor needs me to work on a special project in addition to my TA hours, and she says it’s OK!
NO!!! If you work more than 20 hours per week during Spring or Fall semesters without additional authorization (CPT, OPT) you are in violation of your F-1 status. Please do NOT take immigration advice from your professors, friends, family, or non-IC FSU staff. Please always ask an IC advisor first. Unauthorized employment is a very serious violation of your immigration status.
Can I work OFF-CAMPUS without special authorization?
NO!!! You must have special authorization for CPT, OPT, Economic Hardship, or employment with an International Organization. (These will be explained below.)
What is OFF-CAMPUS employment?
Off-campus employment is any employment not occurring on the FSU campus, not paid by FSU, or not paid through an entity in direct contract with FSU. Examples are: off-campus translating or tutoring; working for a business in exchange for money, bills being paid or goods or services; operating direct mail businesses; receiving benefits, compensation, or goods from an online business; babysitting.
Is it OK for me to work off-campus during the Summer, without special authorization? Summer is my vacation, so I can do what I want!
NO!!! It is never OK for an F-1 to work off-campus without authorization. The Summer is only an annual break from enrollment requirements. Being on vacation does NOT mean that employment rules are different.
How do I know if I have special authorization for off-campus employment?
You can figure this out very quickly, by answering 3 simple questions.
- Have you applied to the IC and/or USCIS for special authorization?
If YES, go to question 2. If NO, you are NOT authorized for off-campus employment. - Look at page 3 of your I-20. Do you see a notation for any employment authorizations (CPT, OPT, Economic Hardship, or employment with an International Organization) ?
If YES, look at the type of authorization. If you have CPT (Curricular Practical Training) you may work during the dates and at the place noted on your I-20, either part-time or full-time depending on the notation. If you have a different employment authorization, go to question 3. If the answer is NO, you are NOT authorized for off-campus employment. - Do you have an EAD card issued by USCIS?
If YES, you may work during the dates and listed on your Employment Authorization card, either part-time or full-time, depending on the notation in your I-20. If the answer is NO, you are NOT currently authorized for off-campus employment. You must wait until your card arrives.
But I have a friend who has been doing a paid internship without authorization, and nothing has happened to him! I also have another friend who works off-campus, and he hasn’t been in trouble!
Please don’t ever assume that what your friends or peers do is appropriate to your situation. Violating US immigration law is illegal and can have very serious consequences. Also- just because you aren’t in trouble right now, does not mean that a status violation won’t affect you in the future. Some violations of status may only be detected later, when applying for a new visa, new status, or even permanent residency.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) - General FAQs
When should I apply for CPT?
Please apply at least 2 weeks in advance of the time you need to begin your internship or employment. Processing of a CPT application generally takes 1 week. Please keep in mind that your application may be denied if your CPT does not meet the criteria necessary for authorization. An incomplete or improperly completed CPT application will cause a delay in processing.
When can CPT employment begin?
If your CPT is approved, you will receive a new I-20. Page 3 of your new I-20 will list the dates of your authorized employment. You may ONLY work during those dates- not before or after!
Where can I work using my CPT?
You will only be authorized to work at the place listed on page 3 of your new I-20.
How many hours per week can I work during my CPT?
For part-time CPT, you can only work 20 hours per week or less. For full-time CPT, you may work any amount over 20 hours per week. The type of CPT authorized is listed on page 3 of the new I-20.
Can I renew my CPT?
Yes. You will need to complete the CPT application process again, and receive a new I-20 with new CPT dates. If you wish to continue without a break in your internship, please renew before your previous CPT ends. If your CPT ends, you may NOT continue working until you receive a new authorization. Generally, CPT may be renewed for 2 additional semesters (for a total of 3).
What’s the difference between CPT and OPT?
CPT is Curricular Practical Training and should be part of the established academic program (or curriculum) occurring during the study period of your F-1 status. CPT may only be used during the period of study- not after the completion of the program. OPT is Optional Practical Training and is designed for employment or training in the student’s field of study.
I am an undergrad and I have completed all of the course requirements for my degree. Am I eligible for CPT?
NO, with one exception. In this case, you would only be eligible for CPT if your degree program required an internship or practicum for degree completion. If your program has this requirement, you must maintain some enrollment while completing the internship/practicum requirement.
I found a great internship/job. It’s really good work experience. But, my department doesn’t offer course credit or CEO registration. It’s related to my degree program, but not necessary. Can I get CPT?
NO. If you are serious about the position, you should look into applying for OPT. Curricular Practical Training must be part of an established curriculum of study, and therefore is not appropriate for optional employment. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available for work that is optional and not an essential part of your current curriculum,
or comes after the designated period of F-1 study.
I am a graduate student in the thesis/project or dissertation phase. Am I eligible for CPT?
MAYBE. You would only be eligible if your situation fits certain specific eligibility criteria found on page 1 of this application form. Read carefully, and note special exceptions for your case. CPT cannot be authorized for work that is merely related, or simply good job experience. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available for work that is optional and not an essential part of your current curriculum.
I am a grad student in my final semester- defending my thesis/dissertation. Am I eligible for CPT?
NO, with one exception. Your thesis/dissertation advisor would need to write a very clear letter thoroughly explaining why this employment was still necessary for your thesis/dissertation in the final semester. (In other words- How can you still be gathering data if you are defending in the same semester?)
I found a great internship/job. It’s really good work experience. But, my department doesn’t offer course credit or CEO registration. It’s related to my dissertation, but not necessary. Can I get CPT?
NO. If you are serious about the position, you should look into applying for OPT. Curricular Practical Training must be part of an established curriculum of study, and therefore is not appropriate for optional employment. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available for work that is optional and not an essential part of your current curriculum.
I found a full-time job, but my employer wants me to start right away. I don’t have time to apply for OPT. Can I do CPT now, and apply for OPT?
NO. CPT is not intended to bridge gaps in your optional employment eligibility, or to be used for full-time ongoing employment.
I completed all of my coursework in the Spring semester, but I want to make Summer my final semester. I only want to register for the Career Center CEO Program, and nothing else. Can I get CPT?
NO. The Career Center option is only available in Summer if it is NOT the final term. The Career Center Option is only available for grad students in Summer when the Summer semester is considered the annual vacation. Summer is NOT the annual vacation if it is a student’s final term.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) FAQs
When can I begin my Post-Completion OPT work?
You are no longer eligible for any type of employment (including on-campus employment) after your program completion date unless you have already received your OPT card USCIS. DO NOT BEGIN EMPLOYMENT UNTILTHE DATE LISTED ON YOUR CARD.
What is my program completion date?
If you are completing your degree and graduating, your program completion date will be the same date as the FSU diploma date ( or graduation date) for your final semester. You can find this date on the Registrar’s academic calendar. Your OPT I-20 will be shortened to this date, reflecting your program completion.
If you are a Master’s or PhD student who has completed all required coursework and completed the comprehensive exam, you can choose to begin OPT earlier. If you wish to start OPT before the “normal” program completion date, then your completion date would be the day before your requested OPT employment begins. Your I-20 will be shortened to this date, and immigration will consider you to have completed.
When should I apply for post completion OPT?
The earliest that you can apply for post completion OPT is 90 days prior to your program completion date. It is strongly encouraged that you apply at least 90 days prior to your requested OPT start date since OPT processing can take up to 3 months. You must file your application with USCIS before the end of the 60-day grace period following your program completion date. Finally, your OPT application must be submitted to USCIS within 30 days of the OPT I-20 issue date, located in section 10 of your I-20.
Can I remain unemployed during my post-completion OPT period?
During this time, your F-1 status is dependent on employment. You must not accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment during the standard 12-month period of post-completion OPT. Days of unemployment will be counted from the start date of OPT, although DHS may not count days accrued while you are waiting for your authorization. We suggest that you keep a good record of employment.
Why do I get a new I-20 after I submit my post completion OPT application to the International Center?
The new I-20 will show the recommendation for OPT on page 3, with your requested dates. The I-20 end date will change to reflect the program completion date. If applying for Post-Completion OPT based on completion of all degree requirements, your program completion date occurs at the end of your final semester of enrollment prior to graduation. If applying for Post-Completion OPT based on coursework completion, your program completion date occurs at the end of the semester before you intend to begin your full-time OPT. (This should be the semester that you apply for OPT).
Is travel recommended during the OPT period?
Post-Completion OPT students should be very careful about travel outside the U.S.
- Students with approved OPT requests and EAD cards - page 3 of the I-20 must be endorsed for reentry AND evidence of a job offer or letter of employment may be required upon return.
- Students with pending OPT requests - page 3 of the I-20 must be endorsed for reentry AND evidence of actively seeking employment may be required upon return. (Travel in this situation is not highly recommended.)
- Obtaining a new F-1 visa for re-entry can be risky. Seek the advice of an IC advisor if you have questions.
HELP! I’m very worried about exceeding 90 days of unemployment during OPT!
Immigration not been clear or consistent in defining specific consequences to exceeding the 90 days of unemployment, and has not specifically stated if and when this provision will effect an individual’s immigration record. We recommend that you do everything possible to avoid going over 90 days. Please keep in mind that USCIS also considers employment to be normal paid employment, OR self-employment, unpaid or volunteer work in your field, or internship. As an F-1, you must document your periods of employment carefully, as the responsibility will rest on YOU to provide proof of your employment during this period.
If I have more than 90 days of unemployment during OPT do I have to leave the US immediately?
Immigration has not specifically stated that you are required to leave the US immediately after accruing 90 days of unemployment. They do, however, state that you are not maintaining proper status if you have more than 90 days. If you really and truly have no intention of working in the US using your OPT, then you should not remain in the US as an F-1. If you are working hard on finding employment, then document this carefully and keep this documentation as proof that you are attempting to “take action to otherwise maintain legal status.”
Here are some selections directly from immigration ( see http://www.nafsa.org/regulatory_information.sec/29_month_opt_rule_updates for a good compilation of all updates regarding the new OPT rules.)
The new OPT rule, according to the Code of Federal Regulations states the following:
"Periods of unemployment during post-completion OPT. During post-completion OPT, F-1 status is dependent upon employment. Students may not accrue an aggregate of more than 90 days of unemployment during any post-completion OPT carried out under the initial post-completion OPT authorization."
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Policy office issued this guidance:
“What is the effect on a student’s status if the student exceeds the period of unemployment?
A student who has exceeded the period of unemployment while on post-completion OPT has violated his or her status unless he or she has taken one of the following actions:
- Applied to continue his or her education by a change of level or transferring to another SEVP-certified school
- Departed the United States
- Taken action to otherwise maintain legal status
7.4.2. Are DSOs [Designated School Officials] responsible for determining if a student has exceeded the limit of unemployment time while on OPT?
No. DSOs are responsible for updating SEVIS with employment information provided by the student or the student’s employer. DHS [Department of Homeland Security] will determine if the student has violated his or her status by exceeding the permissible unemployment period.
7.4.3. How will DHS enforce this provision?
Students may be denied future immigration benefits that rely on the student’s valid F-1 status if DHS determines that the student exceeded the limitations on unemployment.”
Additionally, ICE/SEVP may examine SEVIS data for an individual, a selected group, or all students on post-completion OPT and terminate a student’s record if it fails to show the student maintained the proper period of employment. In such cases, the student will be given an opportunity to show that he or she complied with all OPT requirements, including maintaining employment.