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A Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your Future

Being an international student in the USA, probably you know the term Optional Practical Training (OPT). But the optional practical training program is not only an opportunity. It is also a pathway to get your career started in one of the most competitive job markets in the world. But then the process of applying for OPT is a complicated one. It often makes students feel overwhelmed following the rules and requirements of the school and trying not to miss their graduation date. It has been seen, that every year, thousands of students suffer unnecessary delays or outright denials. Because they do not follow to the submission procedures appropriately. Here Star IT USA shows its magic by taking on tasks such as research and publication writing as well as offering other tailor-made services for foreign students.

What is OPT and Why is It Important?

OPT or Optional Practical Training, It is a program. It provides international students who are holding F-1 visas with a job for 12 months to stay in the USA. This work experience should be specifically related to your major field of study. However, for students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, there is also a possibility. It could be qualified you for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Thus, it brings your total potential work experience to 36 months.

Types of OPT:

Pre-Completion OPT: This capability of part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) is given to you while you are still a student at your college.

Post-Completion OPT: This is activated after you complete your degree and can be full-time. Thus, you can move your body and your mind gradually from student to professional life.

Why is OPT Important?

Practical Experience: Working hands on in your discipline, which if it is IT. Then, you will have the skills to be employed by future companies.

Network Building: OPT is a fantastic opportunity to you. Try to do networking and making business contacts.

Career Advancement: Statistics claim that those students who finish OPT. They are more likely to find jobs and get permanent employment in the country.

Did you know? According to the National Foundation for American Policy, OPT students added over $40 billion to United States economy during the period of 2008 and 2018. It is not just a proof of the program’s success. But the effect on the American workforce as well. That’s a testament to the program’s impact, not just on students but on the American workforce as a whole.

Understanding the OPT Submission Process

Mastering the OPT submission process requires knowing each of the steps by heart. This is a complete guide to help you through the process:

1. Discuss Your Plan with Your DSO: Setting your first meeting with your Designated School Official (DSO). It should be your immediate step. Besides, they will inform you on the process and issue your new Form I-20. It is an important document for your application.
2. Complete Form I-765: It is the Application for Employment Authorization. It is very important to fill this form out correctly. Even tiny mistakes like wrong names or wrong dates can cause problems.

3. Gather the Required Documents:

• Form I-20 (approved by your DSO for OPT)
• Form I-765 (completely and correctly filled out)
• Copy of your passport (Passport photocopy (valid for at least six months after your OPT period)
• Two passport-sized photos Two photos passport-sized (recent and following all USCIS guidelines)
• fee ($410 as of 2024)

4. Submit Your Application: The students are required to apply for OPT, at least 90 days prior to their program end date and no later than 60 days after. Not submitting the application within this time frame would mean a loss of eligibility.
5. Track Your Application:

After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment containing a number against. The progress can be tracked by you of your application. Use this to check the status of your application regularly.

Key Deadlines:
Submitting your application early reduces the risk of delays. Besides, it usually takes 3 to 4 months the application to process. So, plan as per this time frame.

Common Challenges Faced During OPT Submission

OPT submission is not an easier way out than students may think. Let’s aspect at some of the matters:

Missed Deadlines: Whether you are stuck with the hectic schedule or you don’t clearly comprehend the window period of submission. Missing the time limit is indeed a very communal fault. Don’t overlook that your program end date. It is the crucial date for you to apply within 60 days. Late application will get you disqualified.

Incomplete Documentation: Even omitting just one document can cause your application to be rejected. Follow the checklist and check each required document twice before you submit it.

Errors on Form I-765: Only some mistakes are enough to cause the application to get stuck or lose time. Such as inappropriate social security numbers or misspelled names.

Communication Gaps: At times, students do not effectively communicate with their DSO. Thus, they get confused and make a mad last-minute scramble.

Managing Stress and Staying Organized:

• Keep a calendar of deadlines.
• Set reminders for the timeline of every phase of the submission.
• Download and use organization apps to have all your papers in a single file.

How Star IT Inc Simplifies OPT Submission

At Star IT USA, we are well aware of the fact. The stakes are very high when it comes to OPT submission. We have a comprehensive range of services. These are geared towards making the whole process smooth and stress-free.

• Document Review and Guidance: Our team checks every document meticulously for compliance with USCIS standards. We provide feedback and corrections to root out any mistakes that might lead to rejection.
• Research and Publication Support: Your academic records and certifications can be a plus factor in the OPT application process. We support with research methodology and writing. We guide you through getting published in reputable journals and this is most especially relevant for students in STEM fields.
• Personalized Consultations: The needs of each student are different. We have one-on-one sessions. Here, we address your issues, ask questions, and plan for your success.
• Success Story: A good example is that of Ali, an engineering graduate from Pakistan (fictional yet highly plausible). He had real problems with the proper arrangement of his documents and was in danger of missing the submission deadline. As he pointed out Star IT USA intervention, his application was processed correctly and he got his employment authorization in three months.

Expert Tips to Make Your OPT Submission Stand Out

• Start Early: A tendency to procrastinate can wreak havoc on your plans. You should begin with the organization of your documents at least four months before graduation.
• Triple-Check Everything: Get a peer or professional service to check your forms for you.
• Seek Professional Help: Do not think someone else can do it better than you. Services such as Star IT USA can help you save time and lower your stress.
• Highlight Your Academic Achievements: An academic profile with prominence mostly in research. It can be the attraction to employers. One way is to publish your research before or during your OPT period.

The Impact of Research and Publication on Your Career

What are the rewards of publication your research, if any impact? The first benefit is that it shows your knowledge and lying between your competitors at the job market. The fact is that hiring managers will know always prefer the candidates who show leadership potential. Star IT USA is an experienced company on this line. It focuses on assisting non-native English speakers in developing academic papers. It meets international standards.

Fields Where Research is Valued

• Healthcare: The publication of academic articles is a door to jobs in hospitals and research institutes.
• Technology: Employers keep candidates who can contribute to innovation and development.
• Engineering: A paper on published research can be used to prove the dedication of a person to the development of the subject matter.

The first reason why you should publish your work. Because of that it is a way of developing your OPT application. And, the second reason is that it is a way of getting collaborations and career advancements. It can influence your professional path.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Long is the approval process for OPT?

• On average, the process goes from 90 to 120 days. Although this may change due to the time of the year and the quality of your application.

2. Can I work while OPT is still processing?

• Sadly, no. You have to wait till you have got the EAD (Employment Authorization Document).

3. What if my OPT application is rejected?

• DSO could only come to a limited extent. Whereas you will either have to be reapplying or go with a different path.

4. Yes, you can indeed consider the possibility of traveling while your OPT application is pending?

• More or less. It will be wise for you separately to confer with your DSO and weigh the drawbacks if for any reason it turns out. It is the only thing that will follow to go back to the States.

5. Explain what is STEM OPT extension and who can qualify for it.

• For a 24-month extension can be applied by you, if you obtain a STEM degree. It means a risk of employers that violate orders to verify the work of your Filled employees.

Conclusion

Submitting Optional Practical Training can effectively or destroy your plans to work in the US, if you handle this matter on your own and without anybody to accompany you. But with the right assistance, you can enhance your scope. However, Star IT USA is committed to providing experienced help and right from the preparation of the documents to the publication of the research paper. Thus, It is making your application the best among others. Whom are you going to get in touch with to make that jump towards a greener pasture? Set your star on ICT(M&T) and we’ll hold your hand through your application to the United States.