Only students enrolled in a Certificate Program at UC Berkeley Extension are eligible to apply for OPT upon successful completion of that program. Examples of programs that may qualify are our Berkeley-Haas Global Access Program and our Full-Time Certificate Immersive Programs.
Other programs, being strictly non-degree programs, by the nature of their enrollment, do not qualify for OPT.
In this FAQ article, we will elaborate on UC Berkeley Extension's policy and provide guidance on OPT eligibility for students enrolled in certificate or degree programs.
- Why don't Concurrent Enrollment students qualify for OPT?
Unfortunately, Concurrent Enrollment students are not eligible for OPT because they are enrolled in a program that does not confer a certificate upon completion. OPT eligibility at UC Berkeley Extension is contingent upon successfully receiving a certificate after completing at least two academic semesters.
- What is the OPT eligibility requirement for UC Berkeley Extension?
The OPT eligibility requirement is clearly outlined on our website under Visa Information. According to this policy, students must successfully complete a certificate program, which typically involves at least two academic semesters of study. This ensures that students have a defined academic goal, making them eligible for OPT upon program completion.
- Why are Concurrent Enrollment programs different?
Concurrent Enrollment allows non-matriculated students to take courses alongside their matriculated UC Berkeley peers. However, their status as non-matriculated students means they are not enrolled in a program with a fixed academic goal, such as a certificate, Bachelor's Degree, or Master's Degree. As a result, they do not meet the eligibility criteria for OPT.
- Who is eligible for OPT?
Only students enrolled in a certificate or degree program at UC Berkeley Extension are eligible to apply for OPT upon successful completion of that program. The Form I-20, issued to eligible students, clearly denotes whether they are working towards a certificate or degree under the section labeled Program of Study.
- How can I explore certificate programs with OPT eligibility?
If you are interested in learning more about certificate programs that confer OPT eligibility, we encourage you to reach out to our Admissions team.
- Any further questions?
If you have any additional questions or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to assist you in navigating the OPT eligibility process and ensuring a smooth academic experience.