Skip to main content Skip to main navigation Skip to footer content

International Office

Optional Practical Training (OPT

Want to learn what an OPT (Optional Practical Training) is?

Planning on finding employment opportunities after graduation?

Want to learn about the OPT application and application process?

***OPT Workshop attendance is required prior to an OPT application***

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an opportunity for students to work 12 months in their field, after program completion at Fresno State. Students may apply 90 days prior to completion of their course work or 60 days after completion but cannot apply after they complete their course work. It is possible to use some of your OPT during your course of study, but it is not advisable. To be eligible for OPT, you must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year  Authorization for OPT is granted by the USCIS, and can take at least 90 days and frequently up to 120 days to obtain. OPT workshops are available throughout the semester.

To complete the OPT workshop, please follow the path below:

Log in to  "My Fresno State" ==> "Canvas" ==> Under "International Office" ==> "Employment" ==> and choose OPT workshop. ==> Complete the OPT quiz/, and screenshot the result as your proof of completion.      

Important Forms and Documents

Health Insurance for OPT Students 

If you are a recent Fresno State graduate working on OPT, there are other health insurance options available to you. Please visit the link below for more information about health insurance through International Student Insurance. We highly recommend that international students continue to have health care coverage during their stay in the U.S. 

Health Insurance for OPT