Office of International Student Services Newsletter

 Volume II, Number 29

· OISS Graduation Reception

Immigration Information

· Availability of new H-1 visas
· Last week to apply for OPT if you are graduating this May

Upcoming Events

· May 17 - "Ask an Advisor" chat on Blackboard
· May 19 - OISS Graduation Reception
· May 21 - Commencement Ceremonies

Interesting Articles

· Commuter Center Events
· Full-time UST MBA program to host campus visits, informational open houses
· Life/Work Center Newsletter
· Wellness House Newsletter

If you are graduating this semester, you are eligible for one year of Optional Practical Training (OPT), which means you may stay in the United States and work in a field related to your major course of study listed on your I-20.

To follow this program you need to set up an appointment with an advisor in OISS to begin the paperwork for the Immigration Department. You do not need to have a job in hand to apply. You need to be sure that you are going to complete your studies by May 21.

We urge that you to apply immediately since the Immigration Department must receive your OPT application before May 21, 2005 and it has been taking about 3 to 4 months to receive the EAD card, which is required to work during OPT.

A student completing a course of study at the end of Spring semester 2005 may not apply for OPT after May 21, 2005.

Please see an OISS advisor if you have any questions or concerns.