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 within 60 days after your program end date.
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 OPT |
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Review Information/ OPT Quiz
Confirm Graduation Semester
Submit OPT Start Date Request
Create a USICIS 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: Forms Available to File Online
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:
Use the code for standard Post-completion OPT (c)(3)(B).
Incomplete applications or applications with errors may lead to delays or a denial of your OPT application.
Do not pay the application fee until you have reviewed your application with your international student advisor.
We strongly recommend you complete a final document check to ensure that your application is complete prior to making payment.
You are responsible for submitting the OPT application within the filing deadlines.
OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation
The checklist has notes on each required item.
Be sure to read these carefully.
Keep a copy of your application and all documents for your records.
For more information, please refer to the USCIS website https://www.uscis.gov/i-765.
Important: USCIS will send the EAD card and all notifications to the address on the I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). International Affairs advises that the address should be valid for at least 4 months. |
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Required Documentation | |
Filing Fee | Important Notes for Online Filing: USCIS considers your OPT application filed when you pay the fee in the online application.
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Completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization | You must file your Form I-765 within 30 days of the date that your DSO enters the recommendation for OPT in SEVIS. Read and follow the instructions carefully: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765 Important Notes: Use the code for standard Post-completion OPT (c)(3)(B). You must provide the details below to apply for OPT. Additional Information:
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Most recent I-94 arrival record. | Printout of electronic Form I-94.
Or copy of both sides of card stock I-94. |
Copy of all previous Employment Authorization Documents (EAD cards). | Include a copy of front and back of each EAD card. |
Proof of identity if you do not have a previous EAD card. | Copy of biographical ID page of your passport (valid for at least six months). |
US passport-style photograph/s. | Use the Photo Tool link in the online application.
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I-20 with OPT recommendation | A copy of the OPT I-20 must be included in your OPT application. Look for the OPT start and end date on page two. IMPORTANT:
Check that the I-20 has your signature and date in ink before you upload. |
Additional Information | Include
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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 or www.ICE.gov/tips immediately and make a report.
Maintaining Status while on OPT |
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Reporting Requirements
Travelling and OPT Unemployment and Unpaid WorkWhat to Expect After You Submit your Application to USCIS |
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FAQs |
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