Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of temporary employment available to eligible F-1 students. It must be directly related to the student’s major area of study and can be used before (pre-completion) or after (post-completion) graduation. Students can be authorized for up to 12 months of OPT per educational level, but any time used during pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the total time available for post-completion OPT

Types of OPT

🔹 Pre-Completion OPT

• Available after completing one full academic year of full-time enrollment at a SEVP-certified institution.
• Students may work part-time (20 hours/week or less) during the academic term and full-time during official breaks.
• Time used in pre-completion OPT reduces your post-completion OPT eligibility.

🔹 Post-Completion OPT

• Available after completing your program of study.
• Students must work at least 20 hours per week, either part-time or full-time.
• Any pre-completion OPT time already used will be deducted from the 12-month total.

OPT Application Process at MIU

If you are enrolled in a program other than Computer Science, please contact:: dso@miu.edu

MIU Computer Science Applicants Requirements:

Download the PDF and read it carefully and completely. Then contact International Student Services to start your application process.

Please contact: 

Sonlite “Samantha Kelly”—DSO: skelly@miu.edu

Beth Rasmussen—DSO: beth.rasmussen@miu.edu

Email us at dso@miu.edu