Associate of Science in Fire Science Technology

at Hillsborough Community College - Ybor City Campus Training Center USA

Optional Practical Training or OPT is a period during which students, who have completed their degrees in the USA, are permitted to work for one year on a student visa by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). OPT allows students to work for up to 3 years and develop real-world skills to survive in the competitive jobs market.

It is temporary employment for a period of 12-months that is directly related to the major area of study of an F-1 student. Eligible students have the option to apply for OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies and/or after completing their academic studies.

A student can participate in three types of Optional Practical Training (OPT):

1. Pre-Completion OPT: This is temporary employment provided to F-1 students before completion of their course of study.
2. Post-Completion OPT: This is temporary employment available to F-1 students after completing their course of study.
3. 24 Month STEM Extension: Students enrolled in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses can a 24-month extension after their initial Post-Completion OPT authorization.