5 Immigration Terms Every International Student Must Know
Essential Vocabulary for Navigating the International Student Immigration Process
As international students in the US, you're not just adjusting to a new education system. You’re also navigating a new legal system.
In this newsletter, we're diving into the realm of immigration with 5 terms to help you thrive in this unique intersection of learning and immigration.
PS: I’m 100% expecting you to look like this as you continue reading 💀
1. DSO - Designated School Official
Imagine the DSO as your personal immigration superhero. They are the masters of your immigration destiny within your educational institution. Need an I-20? Lost your passport? Have an urgent visa question? You go find your DSO in the Office of International Students and Scholars
2. CPT - Curricular Practical Training
CPT is your gateway to real-world experience and internships during your academic program. It offers you the opportunity to apply what you've learned in the classroom to practical settings. With CPT, you can gain valuable hands-on experience, enhance your skills, and make your resume shine bright like a Diamond (extra points to those who got the Riri reference).
To start working on your CPT,
Consult with DSO to discuss your eligibility and requirements.
Secure and obtain a job or internship offer letter
Submit the required forms and receive your work authorization
For more information, head to Study in the States CPT page in DHS.GOV
3. OPT - Optional Practical Training
OPT serves as a bridge between your academic journey and the professional world. It provides work authorization after you complete your studies, allowing you to apply your knowledge in practical settings and gain valuable work experience.
To start working on your OPT,
Determine eligibility for pre-completion and post-completion OPT (yes they are different), and STEM OPT extension.
Submit the application with required forms I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization; Copy of your current I-20 with the OPT recommendation from your DSO; Valid passport, visa, I-94 record, and passport-sized photo).
Receive employment authorization document (EAD)
For more information, head to Study in the States OPT page in DHS.GOV
Example of an EAD card [The stash is a tad much NGL]
4. EAD - Employment Authorization Doc
The EAD is a crucial document that grants you official authorization to work in the United States. The EAD is issued with a specific validity period, which typically aligns with the authorized period of employment, such as your OPT.
Check the dates on your EAD card and ensure that you only work within the authorized timeframe
Comply with any specific restrictions mentioned on the card or communicated by USCIS. For example, you may be authorized to work only in a specific field or for a certain number of hours per week.
Before you travel, ensure that your EAD is valid and will not expire during your trip. Also, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date.
For more information, head to Study in the States travel page in DHS.GOV
4. I-94 - Arrival/Departure Record
I-94 an official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) document that records the arrival and departure of foreign travelers entering the United States.
After each entry into the United States, check your I-94 record to ensure its accuracy. Verify that your name, date of birth, passport number, visa type, and dates of entry and authorized stay are correct.
You may require a valid I-94 record as part of the application process for a driver's license or state identification number.
For more information, head to DMV Factsheet page in ICE.GOV
What other immigration terms should international students know?
Drop it in the comments below. I’ll make a Part 2.
You got this!
Best,
Aditi Paul