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For help with this process, please contact International Programs at international@uwf.edu.
What is OPT?
Post-completion OPT gives F-1 students the opportunity to work in the United States after completion of their degree.
OPT is training that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. It provides students with practical experience in their field of study upon completion of a degree program.
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To be eligible for OPT, you must
- be in good immigration status
- have been enrolled as a full-time student for the past nine months
- be in your last semester
- have a valid passport
- be physically present in the US
OPT Application Filing Timeline
The earliest date to apply is 90 days before the completion of your program.
We recommend that you apply as early as possible.
USCIS must receive your complete OPT application within 60 days after your program end date.
Instructions on How to Apply for OPT
Step 1
Review the information in this OPT Confluence page to learn about the process to apply for OPT.
View The SEVP Portal: Overview Video for instructions on how to use the portal to fulfill reporting requirements while on OPT.
- Please note that reporting requirements for STEM OPT do not apply to students on Post-completion OPT.
- It's a good idea to make a note of any questions or concerns so that you can review them in your OPT advising appointment.
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Take the Optional Practical Training (OPT) Orientation Quiz.
This is required before International Programs will issue an I-20 with OPT recommendation.
Step 2
Schedule an appointment with an International Programs advisor to discuss any questions or concerns about applying for OPT.
- You can make an appointment by calling 850-474-2479 or through the Navigate App in MyUWF.
Step 3
To request a new I-20 with a recommendation for OPT from International Programs, submit the OPT Start Date Request Form.
The earliest start date is the day after your program end date - based on your semester of program completion.
- You must choose a start date within 60 days of your program end date.
International Programs will review your documents, shorten your I-20 end date if necessary and issue an updated I-20 with the recommendation for post-completion OPT.
Important note:
What is OPT? |
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OPT is training that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. It provides students with practical experience in their field of study upon completion of a degree program.
Students in STEM fields may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension of post-completion OPT. Please see the STEM OPT HUB on the Study in the States website for more information. The Application Guide and Resources for the STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) is another helpful resource.
Who is eligible to apply? |
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To be eligible for OPT, you must:
- be in good immigration status
- have been enrolled as a full-time student for the past nine months
- be in your last semester
- have a valid passport
- be physically present in the US
Students who were previously authorized for 12 months of OPT are eligible to apply again when they complete a degree at a higher level.
Graduate students who have completed all program requirements with the exception of the thesis or dissertation may apply for post-completion OPT.
F-1 students are eligible for one year of OPT per level, for example, one year at the bachelor's level, one year at the master's level, etc.
OPT Application Filing Timeline |
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The earliest date to apply is 90 days before the completion of your program.
USCIS must receive your complete OPT application
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within 60 days after your program end date
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If you apply late, you may have less than 30 days to apply.
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Important Notes on the Timeline: You must apply several days prior to day 60 to ensure that your payment is processed by USCIS prior to the deadline. |
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How to Apply to OPTCheck out the OPT Checklist for an overview of your next steps. |
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Review Information/ OPT Quiz
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1. View The SEVP Portal: Overview Video for instructions on how to use the portal to fulfill reporting requirements while on OPT.
2. Take the Optional Practical Training (OPT) Orientation Quiz. |
Confirm Graduation Semester
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Submit OPT Start Date Request
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Submit the OPT Start Date Request Form in MyUWF. To request a new I-20 with a recommendation for OPT from.
International Affairs will review your documents, shorten your I-20 end date if necessary and issue an updated I-20 with the recommendation for post-completion OPT. The new I-20 must be uploaded in your OPT application.
Picking up your new I-20 with OPT Recommendation:
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Create a USCIS Online Account and Compile Supporting Documents for OPT Application |
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Use this link to create a USCIS account and begin the I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization: https://myaccount.uscis.gov/sign-in Students are responsible for submitting a complete application and all documents required for online filing in the USCIS online account. A copy of the OPT I-20 must be included in your OPT application. Important Notes:
OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation
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Final Steps |
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Schedule an Advising Appointment in Navigate
Complete as much of the online I-765 as possible and upload your required documentation.
- Do not make payment or submit the form prior to the final document check.
- The system allows you to submit the OPT application without required documents or with missing information. This can lead to delays or denials.
- You must be certain that all questions are answered fully and all required documentation is uploaded before making payment.
- Bring your laptop so that you can review and edit your I-765 if updates are needed.
- Computers are also available in the International Center if needed.
- It is important to complete as much of the application as possible and upload your documents before the final document check.
- If you do not have all the required documents, you must follow up and schedule a new appointment.
In Navigate, select Academic Support and Immigration Advising to make an appointment.
You have the opportunity to ask any questions you have and review your I-765 and documentation before you submit/pay for the OPT application.
Important Information to Review before you apply for OPT |
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- Processing time varies. Some applications are processed within 1-2 months. It may take up to 90 days or longer.
- You do not need a job offer to apply for OPT.
- You must not begin work until your OPT is approved and you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card).
- If you move while your application is being processed, you must complete an AR-11 form to update your address or update in your USCIS account.
- USCIS will not forward your mail or EAD card to a new address.
- Employment is permitted only during the time period specified on the EAD card.
- Post-completion OPT is considered full-time, more than 20 hours per week.
- You may have multiple employers, but all employment must be related to your major field of study.
- International Affairs will send important OPT updates to the email on record in MyUWF.
- International students who rely on recruitment agencies to obtain OPT placements should ensure those agencies are trustworthy and reputable.
Reputable recruiters will not modify a student’s resume or academic background to secure OPT placement.
International students who encounter fraudulent activity tied to OPT should contact the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) tip line at 1-866-DHS-2ICE orwww.ICE.gov/tips immediately and make a report.
Maintaining Status while on OPT |
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Reporting Requirements
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You will use the SEVP Portal to fulfill your legal reporting requirements while on OPT.
It is your responsibility to complete reporting requirements.
In the portal, you can update:
If no employer information is entered into SEVIS after 90 days, ICE will cancel your OPT and terminate your status. To update your legal name or email address, contact your international student advisor or email international@uwf.edu.
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The travel signature on your I-20 is valid for six months. For travel, you must have the following to re-enter the US:
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Travel outside of the US while your OPT request is pending is not recommended. If you travel outside the US after your OPT is approved and you do not have a job or a job offer, you may not reenter the US as an F-1 student and your OPT will end. |
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You can accrue up to 90 days of unemployment while on approved OPT.
You can work without pay where this does not violate any labor laws. This is considered employment.
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What to Expect After You Submit your Application to USCIS |
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USCIS will contact you by mail at the address on your I-765 form.
You will receive an I-797C Notice of Action acknowledging receipt of your application.
Contact International Affairs if there is an error on your receipt notice or if you receive a Request for Further Evidence. How to Track Delivery of your EAD Card (Employment Authorization Document)USCIS has options to get automatic case updates including the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) tracking number when your EAD card is mailed. A tracking number is assigned upon shipment of the EAD card.
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You must not begin work until your OPT is approved and you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card).
Below is an example of an Employment Authorization Document.
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Step 4
Pick up your new I-20 with OPT recommendation.
Review it for accuracy, sign and date it.
A copy of the OPT I-20 must be included in your OPT application to USCIS.
Step 5
Complete Form I-765 and compile supporting documents.
Refer to the OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation for the list of items to include in your application.
- Checklist is below.
- For more information, please refer to the USCIS website https://www.uscis.gov/i-765.
- See pages 19-20 in Form I-765 Instructions for how to assemble your documents in the correct order.
Step 6
Schedule an advising appointment with an international programs advisor to review your OPT application.
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- Please see the OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation below.
Final Steps
Send your complete OPT application with fee to USCIS, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- Be careful that all required documents are in the application.
- USCIS can deny your application if it is missing any required documentation without sending you a notification (a Request for Further Evidence).
- Check that the Form I-765 is complete, signed in blue ink and dated.
- Make certain that the copies of all Forms I-20 are signed and dated.
- Double check that your application includes all items on the OPT Application Checklist.
- Make a complete copy of your application for your records.
If your address on the I-765 is in Florida, mail the complete application to:
USCIS Texas Service Center
P.O. Box 660867
Dallas, TX 75266
International Programs recommends regular mail with the United States Postal Service to ship these documents. Do not use express mail.
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Important Information About OPT
- Processing time can take up to 90 days or longer.
- You do not need a job offer to apply for OPT.
- You must not begin work until your OPT is approved and you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card).
- If you move while your application is being processed, you must complete an AR-11 form to update your address.
- USCIS will not forward your mail or EAD card to a new address.
- Employment is permitted only during the time period specified on the EAD card.
- Post-completion OPT is considered full-time, more than 20 hours per week.
- You may have multiple employers, but all employment must be related to your major field of study.
- International Programs will send important OPT updates to the email on record in MyUWF.
- International students who rely on recruitment agencies to obtain OPT placements should ensure those agencies are trustworthy and reputable.
Reputable recruiters will not modify a student’s resume or academic background to secure OPT placement. - International students who encounter fraudulent activity tied to OPT should contact the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) tip line at 1-866-DHS-2ICE or www.ICE.gov/tips immediately and make a report.
Maintaining Status while on OPT
Reporting Requirements and the SEVP Portal
You will use the SEVP Portal to fulfill your legal reporting requirements while on OPT.
- Updates must be made within 10 days of the change occurring.
It is your responsibility to complete reporting requirements.
- The SEVP Portal Help page has step-by-step instructions and instructional videos to learn to navigate the portal.
- Please note that reporting requirements for STEM OPT do not apply to students on Post-completion OPT.
In the portal, you can update:
- Physical home address.
- Mailing address.
- Telephone number.
- Employment information.
If no employer information is entered into SEVIS after 90 days, ICE will cancel your OPT and terminate your status.
To update your legal name or email address, contact your international student advisor or email international@uwf.edu.
- SEVP will send email to the address listed in your portal account.
- Be sure to check your email regularly.
Travel and Maintaining Status
The travel signature on your I-20 must be within 6 months of re-entry to the US.
For travel, you must have the following to re-enter the US:
- a valid passport and visa
- Form I-20 with travel signature
- EAD card
- job offer letter/letter from your employer that you are on approved leave
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Travel outside of the US while your OPT request is pending is not recommended.
If you travel outside the US after your OPT is approved and you do not have a job or a job offer, you may not reenter the US as an F-1 student and your OPT will end.
Unemployment and Unpaid Work
You can accrue up to 90 days of unemployment while on approved OPT.
- Days of unemployment are counted from the start date on the EAD card.
- If you accrue over 90 days of unemployment, you will violate your F-1 status if you do not take action to maintain legal status.
You can volunteer or intern without pay and this time does not count against the 90 days of unemployment.
- You must volunteer or intern (where this does not violate any labor laws) full time, more than 20 hours per week, in your major area of study.
- You must report employment information for volunteer or unpaid intern positions.
- You should be able to provide evidence from your employer to document that you have maintained legal status.
OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation
A complete application for OPT includes all items on the checklist, including a copy of your I-20 with OPT recommendation.
It is important to review the complete OPT page before you submit your application.
Keep a copy of all documents for your records.
You are responsible for submitting the OPT application within the filing deadlines.
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For notification of delivery, use this form. Put this form on top of your application.
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Check or money order for the Form I-765 filing fee of $410.00, made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security."
International Programs recommends payment by money order.
If you do not have a check with your printed name and address, you should use a money order.
You may pay by credit card using G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. See Pay With a Credit Card for details.
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Completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
Include original of Form I-765 in your application.
Download the form to access the latest version.
- Complete the form before you print.
- Refer to Instructions for Form I-765 for details on how to complete the Form I-765.
- Answer all questions fully and accurately.
- State that an item is not applicable with “N/A.” If the answer is none, write “None.”
- Print completed form and sign in blue ink in Applicant Signature field.
- Students must write their signatures so that they fit within the lines of the signature section on Form I-765 so that signatures can be scanned cleanly and applied to the EAD.
Use the code for standard Post-completion OPT for item 27: (c)(3)(B).
Use Part 6. Additional Information to provide:
- all previously used SEVIS numbers and
- evidence of any previously authorized CPT and the academic level at which it was authorized
- evidence of any previously authorized OPT and the academic level at which it was authorized
Important: You must file your Form I-765 within 30 days of the date that your DSO enters the recommendation for OPT in SEVIS.
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Printout of electronic Form I-94.
Or copy of both sides of card stock I-94.
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Copy of biographical ID page of your passport (valid for at least six months).
Copy of most recent F-1 visa.
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Two identical US passport-style color photos, taken within 30 days of filing Form I-765.
Write your name in pencil on the back of each photo.
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Copies of all I-20s.
Put a copy of your signed and dated new I-20 with OPT recommendation on top.
Include a copy of all prior I-20s.
Check that all I-20s have your signature and date before you copy.
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Graduation Verification Form
See Submitting the Graduation Verification Form to complete the form.
What to Expect After You Submit your Application to USCIS
Updates from USCIS
USCIS will contact you by mail at the address on your I-765 form.
- Check your mail regularly.
You will receive an I-797C Notice of Action acknowledging receipt of your application.
- You can use the case number to track your OPT application on the USCIS website.
Contact International Programs if there is an error on your receipt notice or if you receive a Request for Further Evidence.
A tracking number is assigned upon shipment of the EAD card.
- You can use the case number on the USCIS website to identify your tracking number.
- You can use your tracking number at www.USPS.com in the Quick Tools Tracking section.
- Contact your local post office for more information in tracking EAD card delivery.
Receive your Employment Authorization Card
You must not begin work until your OPT is approved and you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card).
Employment is permitted only during the time period specified on the EAD card.
Below is an example of an Employment Authorization Document.
FAQs
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