Frequently Asked Questions
I want to apply for the STEM extension, but my OPT is expired. Am I eligible? No. In order to be eligible for the STEM extension, your I-20 must reflect that you are currently on post-degree completion OPT. You can apply for the extension 90 days prior to your OPT expiration. International Student Services requires you to have four months of OPT (120 days). This allows time for seamless transitions from post-degree completion OPT to the STEM extension OPT. Your employer must also be registered with the Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify program and agree to report to the DSO. I completed my flight training and OPT at an aviation school on the F-1 visa. I want to transfer to Embry-Riddle in the associate degree program. Can I begin part-time OPT right away? No. Students who come from a flight school on the F-1 visa and have completed OPT will not be eligible for the OPT opportunity at the associate level. We feel the coursework completed at the flight school on the F-1 visa is similar to the coursework needed at the associate level, and we will not request OPT for this level. However, the students are eligible to complete OPT at the bachelor’s level. If you want to change your degree program, contact your DSO.
What is OPT, and what is the difference between taking OPT while I am in a degree program or when I am degree complete? Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an employment benefit available to students who have maintained their academic F-1 status. Students who have come to the United States for the first time to study must wait one academic year (9 months/4 terms) before they are allowed to apply for OPT. The purpose is to gain practical experience in your field of study. Pre-completion OPT is part-time (20 hours per week) while enrolled in classes full-time. Post-completion OPT is full-time (40 hours per week) for 12 months, with no part-time OPT. You must contact the Worldwide Site DSO or the PDSO at Embry-Riddle Worldwide headquarters to initiate your OPT application. What is CPT, and am I eligible? Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a training employment experience where the student receives academic credit. You are eligible if you have not fulfilled the requirements in the Professional Development core, upper-level Professional Development elective or upper/lower open electives. Review your academic plan with your academic adviser to see if you are eligible. You will also want to review the CPT/ OPT cooperative and internship section in this guide.
26 | F-1 Regulation Guide for Students | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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