subject: Optional Practical Training (opt) Opportunities For Occupational Therapists [print this page] Through optional practical training (OPT) opportunities, candidates aiming to take up a career as occupational therapists can gain more practical experience by working in real environments.
Requirements for Undergoing Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a highly a beneficial program offered by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for students having F-1 immigration status. It is a kind of consent given for the students to work in temporary jobs related to their field of study so that the knowledge obtained in classrooms can be practically applied in different off campus settings.
For benefiting from the optional training opportunities, the candidates must have enrolled with USCIS recognized schools at least for nine successive months and must possess F-1 status at the time of application. The training program can be utilized in the following situations also:
.During annual vacation and at other times as full-time or part-time
.As part-time, while school is in session
.After the completion of the entire course requirements for degree (before submitting the thesis )
.After getting the degree
According to the recent rules stipulated by the U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS), optional practical training period has been extended from 12 to 29 months, which can be utilized by all candidates having F-1 immigration status.
OPT Improves Your Competency
The main advantage of undergoing optional practical training is that it develops the skills of the candidates and enhances their confidence. Therefore they can work competently in different medical care facilities including acute care clinics, home healthcare agencies, multi-specialty hospitals, long term medical care facilities, nursing clinics and more.
Approach the Right Service Provider
For undergoing optional practical training and securing suitable placements, you can utilize the services of reliable healthcare staffing solution providers. By registering with these staffing agencies, skilled occupational therapists who have completed their graduation and received optional practical training can easily obtain permanent or temporary job positions in renowned healthcare settings with good emoluments and benefits.
