What is OPT?

OPT is a type of work permission available to eligible students on F1 visas. It allows them to undertake temporary employment related to their degree for up to 12 months, providing them with the opportunity to better understand their field and build a foundation for their career.

Types of OPT

There are two types of OPT: pre-completion OPT and post-completion OPT. The main difference between the two relates to when students take the job opportunity. They may participate in pre-completion OPT after they’ve been enrolled full-time for one full academic year at a college, university, conservatory or seminary certified by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

Those authorised to work under pre-completion OPT may obtain employment before finishing their program; they can work for 20 hours or less per week while school is in session or full-time when school is not in session. Post-completion OPT, on the other hand, is available to students who’d like to work after graduation. They can work part-time (at least 20 hours per week) or full-time (up to 40 hours a week). Those who have participated in pre-completion OPT may still take post-completion OPT; however, the total time given to them for the latter would be reduced based on how much work they’ve already rendered in the former. For example, if an individual has already received one year of part-time pre-completion OPT, they may only work for six months (50% of the 12 months that’s normally offered) on post-completion OPT.

STEM OPT Extension

International students who have earned a degree in certain STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fields may apply for a 24-month extension of post-completion OPT. This would allow them to work for a total of three years.

The STEM OPT extension applies to students who:

• received a STEM degree listed in the STEM Designated Degree Program
• are currently working in a post-completion OPT period, having received an initiation grant of post-completion OPT authorisation based on their STEM degree
• are employed by (or wish to work with) a company that uses the E-Verify program
• have a signed Form I-983 (“Training Plan for STEM OPT Students”).

Who can apply for OPT?

To be eligible for OPT, a student must:

• be in the US with a valid F1 visa
• be enrolled at a US educational institution for at least one (1) academic year
• be seeking work related to their major area of study
• not have completed a 12-month full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program
• not have a criminal record during their time in the US
• be eligible for an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD)
• not be enrolled in an English as a Second Language course.

How to apply for OPT

Students who want to apply for OPT must do so through a designated school official (DSO) at their academic institution. As the application starts with the school, the process may differ per location. But generally, these are the steps to apply for OPT.

1. Follow the school processes for requesting OPT

The student must request a recommendation for OPT from a DSO at their school. This process varies per institution, so it’s best to check the specific steps at one’s university. Typically, though, this starts with completing a workshop on OPT and meeting with a counsellor.

2. Receive a signed Form I-20

Once a DSO confirms a student’s eligibility for OPT, they can recommend them for work permission by entering their request in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and endorsing their Form I-20.

3. Submit the required documents to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

The student can then prepare the required documents—mainly their Application for Employment Authorisation (Form I-765). They must also pay a fee and provide supporting documentation (as described in the form instructions) within 30 days of their DSO’s recommendation.

The required initial evidence includes:

• a copy of the student’s Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record (front and back), a printout of their electronic Form I-94, their passport or other travel document
• A copy of the applicant’s last Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (if applicable; if not, then a copy of a government-issued identity document)
• two identical passport-style photographs
• form G-28 (if the individual is represented by an attorney or accredited representative).

Upon receiving the form I-765, the USCIS will issue a Receipt Notice with a corresponding number to the student’s application. If they require more information, the applicant will receive a request for evidence (RFE), which will state what other documents may be required.

4. Get an EAD

Once the USCIS approves the student’s OPT application, they receive an EAD and can begin work on the authorised date. They must report their employer information to their DSO. Any changes in the student’s name or address and employment information must also be reported within 10 days. The DSO must then update SEVIS within 21 days with these revisions.

Help students with OPT through upGrad GSP

upGrad GSP is ready to help you guide students through their educational journey in the US. Speak to one of our business development experts to learn more about OPT and post-study work opportunities for students in the country.

The post How to apply for OPT appeared first on upGrad GSP.

When are intakes in Australia?

Intakes are admission periods during which universities accept student applications. In Australia, intakes generally fall between October to December for the first-semester intake and between February or April for the second-semester intake. Unlike in other countries, Australian schools generally follow a rolling admissions process, allowing applications to be accepted even after official deadlines, provided there are still available slots in a given program. Some universities also offer flexible course start dates, which is advantageous for students who may experience delays via visa or travel restrictions.

Intake deadlines may vary per university—and maybe even by course or program—so students should check the specific due dates applicable to them.

Choosing an intake period

While one intake isn’t necessarily better than the other, each period has its own set of advantages. Most people apply during the first-semester intake, ideal for those who’d like to get an early start in their studies and make the most out of the following year in the country. This primary intake period welcomes a diverse pool of applicants, opening more peer-based learning opportunities for students.

The second-semester intake is well-suited for students who wish to have more time to prepare for their applications. This period also better aligns with class ending dates for international learners around the globe. That said, second-semester intake may have more limited openings and higher student competition, so it’s crucial to be extra prepared if opting for these dates.

Preparing for Australian intakes

To best prepare for intakes in Australia, students need to get to know the eligibility requirements and necessary documents for applying to universities in the country. These may vary per university and program, but they generally follow the same basic prerequisites.

Eligibility requirements for Australian intakes

Students must fulfil some eligibility criteria before applying to Australian university intakes. These typically include academic qualifications, language proficiency, graduate records examination (GRE) or graduate management admissions test (GMAT) scores, and a valid passport and student visa.

Academic qualifications

For students applying for a bachelor’s degree, they must have completed higher secondary-level education. For those aiming to take up post-graduate studies, they must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Certain universities and courses may impose their minimum qualifications for admissions, and students should check these out before applying.

Language proficiency

As an English-speaking country, Australia expects international students pursuing education to understand the language—especially as it’s the main medium of learning in universities. IELTS and TOEFL are the two most accepted tests for admission, with students required to get at least a band of 6.0 and a score of 90, respectively, to be eligible for admission.

GRE or GMAT scores

While not applicable to all universities, many top institutions (including B-schools) require a minimum score of 280 in the GRE or 650 in the GMAT to enter their programs.

Passport and student visa

Students looking to study in Australia need to have a valid passport that allows them to apply for a student visa in the country. Otherwise, they won’t be allowed to travel to or stay in Australia.

Necessary documents for Australian intakes

Students shouldn’t underestimate the amount of paperwork it takes to complete Australian intake requirements. Here’s a quick list of documents students will need:

• certified transcript and academic records
• language proficiency scores
• higher secondary education or bachelor’s degree certificate
• GRE or GMAT scores
• statement of purpose
• letters of recommendation
• proof of financial resources
• updated curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
• copy of passport
• student visa

How to apply for Australian intakes

Applying for Australian intakes is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how it typically goes.

1. Choose a university and program

The first thing a student must do is shortlist the universities and programs that they would like to apply to. They must take note of eligibility criteria and requirements for admission, along with deadlines for submission.

2. Start the school application process

Once the student has made their choice, they can start applying by collecting the needed documents and complying with necessary tests (like standardised exams or language proficiency tests).

Among these requirements is a written statement about one’s intention to apply. This is an opportunity for the student to let their personality shine through, highlighting their achievements, aspirations, and passion for their chosen field.

3. Wait for a decision

After submitting the requirements and paying relevant fees, students must wait for the university’s decision. This may take a couple of weeks; it’s best to stay updated on the university’s announcements for the specific timeline.

4. Enroll and apply for a student visa

If the student is accepted, they can then enrol in their course and proceed with obtaining their student visa.

Prepare for intakes in Australia with GSP

Help students be prepared for their educational journey in Australia by speaking to one of Global Study Partners (GSP) business development experts. We can guide you through Australian intakes so you can better prepare your learners for admissions.

The post How to prepare for intakes in Australia appeared first on upGrad GSP.

What is considered in the GTE?

The GTE considers multiple factors that demonstrate a student’s genuine intention to stay in Australia to gain an education. These include:

• personal circumstances in one’s home country
• potential circumstances in Australia
• immigration history
• value of the desired education in one’s future
• other matters relevant to an intention to remain in Australia temporarily.

For students below 18 years old, the intentions of their parent, legal guardian or spouse are also assessed.

How to comply with the GTE requirement

To comply with the GTE requirement, students must submit a personal statement addressing their intention to enter Australia temporarily as a student. This should be written in English, typically in 300 words and with a 2,000-character limit. It must address one’s purpose and circumstances for undertaking their proposed study in Australia. In addition to this, applicants may also be required to attach supporting documents to back up claims declared in their personal statement.

What to include in a GTE personal statement

The Australian government encourages internal students to include the following evidence and information in their GTE personal statement:

Previous study

The student must talk about their previous education, ideally highlighting academic achievements that could qualify their pursuit for further education in Australia. They should include names of past education providers and periods of study. They may also submit academic transcripts and certificates of attainment.

If there were gaps in previous studies (e.g., the student took a break in between semesters), they must also address this, providing valid reasons for not maintaining enrolment.

Current employment

Employed students need to provide information on their current employer, such as the nature of their work, period of employment, company address and references.

Ties to country of residence

To prove that they’re returning to their country of residence after completing their studies, applicants must submit evidence of financial, family or social ties. These may include ongoing employment, presence of close family members in the home country and property or other significant assets that show significant incentives to go back.

Financial capacity

The Australian government wants to ensure that international students can afford the cost of education and day-to-day living in the country as they study. Applicants must exhibit their economic situation. They can do this by providing documents showing employment or business activities for the past year, potential employment offers and income tax returns or bank statements.

Supporting evidence

Students may be required to supply supporting evidence to back up claims made in their personal statements. These may include official government or financial documents, as well as other articles that may complement relevant declarations. For example, if a student is taking up a course that enhances their job prospects for an industry that needs more staff, they can provide evidence of employment advertisements from the country to show it.

Tips for writing a GTE personal statement

Writing a GTE personal statement might get intimidating since the burden of proof lies with the student. But with clear intentions, it’s easy to comply with GTE requirements. It’s best to be honest and straightforward with one’s declarations, avoiding any misleading information. Applicants must be consistent in their claims and provide clear and accurate documentation for all requirements.

Before writing a GTE personal statement, it’s recommended that students do some research about their chosen course, institution and the Australian education system as a whole. They should also read up on the GTE itself to better understand how it’s assessed so that they can provide adequate details.

The GTE interview

After submitting the required documents, applicants will have to attend a GTE interview with a case officer to further verify their personal statement and documentation. The officer will likely ask questions about the details already declared previously.

GTE interviews can be done at an Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) or online by visa conference call.

To prepare for the interview, a student should review their application and study the details in their GTE personal statement. That way, they’ll be ready to provide more information when asked. Applicants should also read up on their institution and course, as well as the general Australian educational landscape. That way, they can exhibit their readiness to pursue their studies in the country.

Students must be as honest and straightforward in their GTE interview as they were in writing their GTE letter. It’s best to provide facts and provide evidence to prove one’s true intentions for studying in Australia.

How long is GTE approval?

Once the GTE requirement is submitted, it typically takes between four to six weeks to process. This may vary on a case-by-case basis and depending on the country where the application is being processed.

While it may not guarantee faster turnarounds, providing complete and substantial information and documents may push faster and more favourable results.

Why is the GTE requirement important?

Australia is a top study-abroad destination that openly welcomes international students to its shores. But in doing so, its government wants to make sure that these entrants are purposefully entering the country to study and have the intention to return home after graduating. The GTE requirements are a measure to prevent the misuse of student visas.

If the Australian Immigration Office deems a student’s GTE requirement inadequate—that is, if they see that a student has no honest intention to remain only temporarily in the country—they may be denied a student visa. Therefore, properly complying with GTE requirements is a crucial step in an international learner’s application to study in Australia.

Learn more about study requirements in Australia

The GTE is but one of the many requirements to study in Australia. To help students achieve their dream of pursuing education in the country, we must help them navigate the different application processes involved with the move. Speak to one of our Global Study Partners (GSP) business development experts to learn more about study requirements in Australia!

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Study abroad intake dates

Intake dates vary between universities and programs. Generally, they’re divided into three key periods: Autumn Intake, Spring Intake and Summer Intake. Here’s some useful information about each one:

Autumn Intake

Autumn Intake is the primary intake for almost all universities. It’s usually from September to December (though some universities accept applicants as early as August). During this time, students can take advantage of a large number of available courses. There’s also an abundance of scholarships and internship opportunities. That said, this intake also sees the most number of applicants, which overall lowers the general acceptance rate.

It’s recommended that students prepare at least 10 months to a year before the beginning of Autumn Intake to ensure they have everything they need when the admissions period rolls in.

Spring Intake

Spring Intake is the secondary intake season and may even be seen as an extension of the Autumn Intake. It begins in January and ends in May, and it gives students another chance to secure admission to an international institution of their choice. In some places, particularly Canada and the UK, courses begin in January. Spring Intake is also sometimes referred to as Winter Intake.

Not all universities offer Spring Intake, especially for popular courses, so choices at this period are often less. However, since there are typically fewer applications, acceptance rates are higher and class sizes are smaller. Those who apply during Spring Intake also have more time to prepare for their applications and other pre-requisite exams.

Summer Intake

Summer Intake is usually from May to August. It’s a unique situation where universities allow a select group of students to apply to certain courses, like short courses, diploma programs and language courses. This is the best time to apply for students who are interested in programs only available in the summer or who missed the Autumn and Spring Intake seasons.

Summer Intake doesn’t usually apply to international students, and it’s the least preferred intake period due to the lack of available courses and the limit of universities offering enrolments during this time. But competition is low, so those applying have greater chances of getting accepted to the university and course they want.

Intake dates in key study abroad destinations

Now that we’ve broken down the different key intake periods, here’s a guide on the important admissions dates to remember in key study-abroad destinations:

USA

Intakes in the USA fall from September to December (Autumn Intake) and January to August (Spring Intake), with Summer Intake occurring between May and August. Many top universities, including Johns Hopkins University, the University of Arizona and Yeshiva University, accept Autumn Intake applications. It’s best to check the individual requirements of each school for exact dates.

Canada

The primary intake period for Canadian universities is September, with deadlines falling in January (Autumn Intake). Spring Intake is from January to May, while Summer Intake is from May to August. Popular universities offering Autumn Intake applications include the University of Ottawa, Simon Fraser University and the University of Victoria.

Australia and New Zealand

The main intake in Australia is in February, with application deadlines falling in October of the previous year. The same is true for New Zealand. Some top choices for this region include the University of New South Wales, the University of Melbourne and the Australian National University.

United Kingdom

September is the main intake period for universities in the United Kingdom. Deadlines for Autumn Intake are usually in January. Spring Intake runs from January to April, while Summer Intake is from May to August. The University of Bristol, the University of Aberdeen and City, University of London are some of the top choices for international students wishing to study in the UK.

Preparing for intake dates

Knowing the intake dates in key study-abroad destinations allows us to help our students get into their dream institutions and programs. Check out the Global Study Partners platform to find what you need to support the new generation of learners going into university!

The post Intake dates in key study abroad destinations (2024) appeared first on upGrad GSP.

Benefits of post-study work rights for international students

Getting a post-study work permit is a great idea for international graduates who wish to gain practical experience and expand their professional network in the country in which they finished their educational program. Let’s break down the benefits that can be enjoyed with PSWR.

Experience

A post-study visa allows international students to earn money while working in a career adjacent to their field of study. This allows them to gain valuable working experience, enhancing future job prospects while giving them insight into their chosen industry.

Networking

PSWR gives people the chance to expand their professional network. Those with post-study work visas can work and connect with different individuals in a field. This opens up opportunities to build a solid career foundation. These relationships can also be helpful when they opt to venture out in the future.

Residency

For many international students, a post-study work visa is the best pathway to stay in a country long-term since it can lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

Eligibility requirements for post-study work rights

The eligibility requirements for PSWR will depend on the host country. Here are quick guides on post-study work in key study-abroad destinations.

PSWR in the US

The F1, M1 and J1 visas are the 3 different types of student visas through which one can apply for PSWR in the USA. The M1 and J1 visas give a grace period of 30 days to stay in the country. The F1 visa lets international students stay in the country for up to 12 months after completing their studies. It’s the most convenient way to apply for a post-study work permit.

F1 visa holders are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). This allows them to stay and work in the USA for an entire year in temporary employment directly related to their major area of study. A student can receive OPT employment authorisation before (pre-completion) or after (post-completion) he or she completes their studies. Application for pre-completion OPT can be done after receiving full-time enrolment in a certified educational institution (with a course duration of at least 12 months). Once authorised, eligible applicants can work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week as a student and full-time during the holidays. Application for post-completion OPT is only available after a program is finished.

Students who hold a degree in STEM courses from an accredited university can also apply for an OPT extension within 1 year. Those who didn’t finish a STEM degree but wish to extend their OPT can use a past degree from a USA school of higher education. However, they must not already possess an OPT extension for that. Additionally, their job opportunity must align with that field of study. They must also work for an employer enlisted in the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) e-verify employment eligibility verification program.

PSWR in Canada

The post-graduation work permit program (PGWP) allows students to stay in Canada to gain work experience, which can support one’s application for permanent residency. To obtain post-study work rights in Canada, a candidate must:

• have graduated from an eligible Canadian designated learning institution (DLI)
• currently hold valid temporary status or have left Canada
• submit evidence of completion of an academic, vocational or professional training program from a DLI that’s at least eight months in duration leading to a degree, diploma or certificate
• show proof that you have maintained full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of your program (with exceptions concerning a leave from studies or the final academic session)
• give evidence that you have received a transcript or an official letter from the eligible DLI confirming that you’ve completed the requirements of your program.

Within 180 days of the date of application for a PGWP, the applicant must also either hold a valid study permit, have held a study permit or have been authorised to study in Canada without the requirement to obtain a study permit.

PSWR in Australia

PSWR in Australia is classified under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). It’s available for international students whose visas are about to expire but who want to work to resume their stay in the country. To be eligible for PSWR in Australia, a student must:

• be under 50 years old
• have applied for and have been granted your first student visa on or after 5 November 2011
• hold an eligible visa and have held a student visa in the last 6 months
• have a recent degree in a CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)-registered course
• have evidence of adequate health insurance during the application
• provide evidence that you have applied for an AFP check during the application
• comply with English language proficiency requirements.

The list of eligible occupations, qualifications and courses is based on skills shortage. Officials monitor and review it annually to reflect changes in the labour market.

Under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), there are two types of PSWR: the post-study work stream and the graduate work stream. The post-study work stream is the most used. It allows fresh graduates to stay and work in Australia for two to six years. The graduate work stream is for students who have successfully graduated from an Australian university or college. It allows them to live, study and work in Australia for up to 21 months (or up to five years for British National Overseas or Hong Kong passport holders). It also permits them to bring immediate family to stay with them in the country.

PSWR in the UK

The Post Study Work (PSW) or Graduate Route visa in the UK is open to international students who have completed an eligible course of study at a recognised institution. They must also be able to show that they can support themselves financially during their stay in the country. One can apply for a UK post-study work visa if they:

• presently reside in the UK
• currently hold a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• studied a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period (at least 12 months if your course is longer than a year or the whole term if it’s shorter than 12 months) with your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• have an education provider (i.e. university or college, which must be a licensed sponsor with a “track record of compliance”) that has confirmed their course completion to the Home Office.

A person who completed a degree in a non-English language may also need to take up IELTS and score within the band of 6.5 in each of the exam’s four components.

A candidate is also eligible for PSWR in the UK if they have completed any of the following:

• a law conversion course approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
• the Legal Practice Course in England and Wales, the Solicitors Course in Northern Ireland or a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in Scotland
• the Bar Practice Course in England and Wales or the Bar Course in Northern Ireland
• a foundation programme in medicine or dentistry
• a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), or
• a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).

PSWR is also available to those who passed a course that made them eligible for work regulated by UK law or a UK public authority.

PSWR in Ireland

After graduating with a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Ireland, one can get a post-study work permit to remain and work in the country. To be eligible for PSWR in Ireland, an applicant must:

• have obtained your degree or term of study from an accredited Irish university
• have written confirmation from your educational institution that you’ve completed your course of study
• hold a valid stamp and two student visas
• have complied with laws of the state while studying
• have at least two more years of studying left (international students can enrol in courses in Ireland for up to eight years).

There are three available post-study facilities available: the Critical Skills Employment Permit, the General Employment Permit and the Internship Employment Permit. Each comes with its own set of eligibility criteria. Let’s dive deeper into the types of PSWR permits.

Critical skills employment permit

The critical skill visa is granted to people who obtain employment on Ireland’s skill shortage list. To be eligible for this permit, the candidate’s employer must be licensed in Ireland, must have a confirmed two-year job offer (or have been with your current business for at least a year) and should be receiving a minimum base remuneration of 32,000 EUR per year.

General employment permit

The general employment permit lets one work anywhere in Ireland as long as it’s not on the list of ineligible occupations, pays a minimum of 30,000 EUR annually and has qualifications or experience following the Labour Market’s need test (12-month contractual work is eligible). This permit is valid for two years and can be extended for three years. If the applicant has reached five years of work and stays under it, he or she can file for permanent residency.

Internship employment permit

The internship employment permit is for full-time students enrolled in an Irish institute who wish to apply for an internship. With it, a person may apply and work for a business after completing their Master’s degree. The job should be on the Critical Skills Employment/Occupations list. It must also be adjacent to their course of study, with a salary that’s at least national minimum pay. Once the internship is finished, the student must leave the state and return to the institute to complete their education.

Offering pathways to PSWR

PSWR is a great opportunity for international students to gain professional experience, build a network and launch a career in the country where they studied. It’s also a convenient way towards permanent residency if one would like to remain in their host country.

To know more about your options for PSWR and our partner institutions in the US, Canada, Australia, Ireland and the UK, check out our platform or reach out to our Business Development Managers today!

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