What kind of visa will I be on while I am doing my practical training?
There is no such thing as "practical training visa." Students remain on their F-1 visa while they are doing their optional practical training.
Do I need to have a job offer before applying for practical training?
No. Many students apply for post-completion practical training before they have actually received a job offer. However, it is important to start looking for work opportunities as early as possible since it usually takes students longer than they anticipate to find a position.
Even though I've completed my degree, I would like to continue to take a few classes while I am on practical training. Is that allowed?
Yes and no. You can take courses that are non-matriculating towards another educational level. You may be able to take incidental, non-matriculating classes on a part-time basis. Please check with the ISC before you make any decisions on study during your practical training period.
I recently received my EAD card, but I would like to cancel it and save my practical training for later. Is this possible?
Once the EAD card has been issued, there is no way to cancel it.
When must I leave the United States after completing my practical training?
You have 60 days after the end date on your EAD card to leave the country, start a new degree program, or change to a new visa status. You cannot work during the 60 day grace period. You are free to travel within the United States, but you should not expect to be able to return to the U.S. with your EAD card and I-20 if you leave the country during these two months.
I applied for a year of practical training, but I never ended up working. Am I eligible to apply again?
Yes and no. You will be eligible to apply for another 12 months of work authorization only if you change your degree level, i.e. Bachelor to Master's and Master's to Doctorate.
What if I want to stay in the United States and work after my year of practical training?
There is no way to extend your 12 months of practical training. Some students have been successful in getting an employer to sponsor them for a different visa, usually an H-1B visa, allowing them to continue to work here for a few years. The process is somewhat complicated however, and usually either the employer or the student will need to hire an immigration attorney.
Is there a deadline for the application?
Your application must be received by the US CIS Nebraska Service Center before the last day of your last quarter of degree completion.
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