OIS Updates November 10, 2009 Presented by: Elizabeth Behringer International Student & Scholar Advisor Kelia Hubbard International Student & Scholar Advisor 320 Daniels Hall

Updates to Curricular Practical Training (CPT) CPT Information Packet is available on the OIS web page Eligibility to work during the academic semester Final semester CPT Changes in Advisor’s Recommendation Form for CPT

CPT During the Academic Semester Students eligible to engage in part-time CPT during the academic semester: – The part-time practical training must compliment a full course load – Requires recommendation from DGP Full-time CPT during the academic semester will only be authorized if the practical training is a required or integral part of the student’s degree program/thesis as recommended by the DGP Full-time CPT will not be authorized late in the student’s program (i.e. final semester of enrollment or during semester of defense)

Updates to Optional Practical Training (OPT) Determining program end date and on campus employment end date Advisor’s Recommendation Form for OPT Student’s options for OPT start date 90 day unemployment rule Unpaid practical training OPT Information Packet on OIS web page

Program End Date for OPT Student can choose to use the defense date or the last day of the student’s last semester of enrollment. Student can choose an earlier OPT start date and meet the graduate school’s “no registration required” deadline. Student is instructed to follow the graduate school requirements concerning graduation. Student cannot continue working on campus (as a student) after the program end date. OIS must update the program end date on I-20.

Advisor’s Recommendation Form Student inputs OPT start date within 60 days of program end date DGP/Advisor confirm anticipated completion date GPA RA/TA termination date Defense Date – must be scheduled prior to submission of OPT application

OPT Continued Students are responsible for keeping documentation during OPT Students are limited to 90 days of unemployment during the entire 12 months of OPT. Unpaid practical training does count towards maintaining F-1 status during the 12 month OPT period; – Must be considered as practical training (related to field of study and commensurate with degree level) – Consultation with HR concerning labor laws and regulations

Updates to Change in Curriculum processing NEW: Changes between thesis options does not necessitate a SEVIS update nor any OIS paperwork from student or the department. As a result, completion date on student’s I-20 remains the same until student requests a program extension or employment benefits based on earlier completion Burden on student to be aware of his/her completion date and take any action necessary to extend or shorten program

Change in Curriculum/Change in Level Implications of a co-major New: Asking for completion date of an “en route” degree, CIC/CIL FormCIC/CIL Form Implications of a downward Change in Level

Reduced Course Loads in SEVIS The OIS Reduced Course Load form is not required for all reduced course hour scenarios – contingent on Graduate School enrollment policy Necessary only when final semester enrollment is deemed by the Graduate School as “half-time” enrollment OIS relies solely on Graduate School policy for understanding enrollment status and does not advise on what is/is not considered full-time enrollment Once a student is authorized in SEVIS as a “Drop Below Full Course of Study” in the final semester, a completion date is reported in SEVIS. A student’s I-20 cannot be extended. Student should meet with an OIS advisor to discuss post- graduation options.

Questions?