OPT Information

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Information

U.S. Regulations offer Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities to eligible students. While on OPT, students gain hands-on experience in the field of their major for up to 12 months. At Palomar College, students may request the recommendation for their post completion OPT application as they become ready to graduate with Associate in Arts degree and/or Certificate of Achievement.

What is OPT? View the slides.

Eligibility for OPT

Steps to apply for OPT(Students applying for OPT must first receive the recommendation from the Coordinator of International Education.):

1. Complete the form I-765
2. Get two head-shot photographs in accordance with USCIS requirement
3. Make an appointment to see the Coordinator of International Education
4. At the time of the appointment, bring in the following documents:
         a. Completed I-765
         b. All the I-20 forms ever issued to you
         c. Passport
         d. I-94 card
         e. Application fee ($380) made payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security
         f. Two head-shot photographs
5. When you receive an email from the Coordinator of International Education, come to the office to pick up the OPT application package and mail to the USCIS service center.

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