Post-Completion Optional Practical Training

F-1 students wishing to apply for post-completion optional practical training (OPT) should read this information and follow the instructions carefully.  If any questions or concerns should arise after reviewing the information, please call the OIS at 210-567-6241 to schedule an appointment with your International Service Representative.

When should an F-1 student apply for post-completion OPT?

Students applying for post-completion OPT may apply for and submit their OPT applications to USCIS as early as 90 days before the program end date indicated on the I-20 form and NO LATER THAN 60 days after the program end date. OPT applications must be received by USCIS no later than 60 days from this I-20 end date. Late applications will be rejected by USCIS. Also, USCIS must receive your application for post-completion OPT within 30 days of the post-completion OPT recommendation issued by your OIS International Services Representative on your I-20 form. The USCIS may grant a later start date for OPT than you originally requested depending upon the timing of the processing of the application.

When is my program end date?

Your program end date can be:

  • Thesis/dissertation defense date
  • Official end date of the semester in which you will complete your degree requirements (whether it be course requirements or thesis/dissertation)

There is some flexibility in determining your program end date depending on the type of program in which you are completing. If you have additional questions about this, please contact your International Services Representative.

How long will it take for my OPT request to be approved?

OIS requires 5-7 business days to process your I-20 form recommending OPT. USCIS takes approximately 90+ days to approve your OPT and mail you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. If your Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, has been pending more than 75 days, you may contact the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that they create a service request. The NCSC will route the service request to the appropriate office for review. Please have your receipt number ready when contacting the NCSC.

You cannot begin working until your OPT is approved and you have your EAD in hand. In addition, you cannot continue any on-campus employment after the program end date indicated on your I-20 form. Therefore, applying for OPT requires careful planning on the student’s part.

Is there a workshop/advising session requirement?

All F-1 students must attend an OPT Workshop led by OIS International Services Representative before they may apply for OPT. These workshops are held each semester and detailed information, including dates, times and RSVP information, is sent out to all students’ university e-mail. If you are unable to attend an OPT Workshop, you must schedule an advising appointment with your International Services Representative. OPT applications will not be processed by OIS until this requirement has been met.

If any of these situations occur, please consult immediately with your International Services Representative.

Documents Needed in order for OIS to provide OPT Recommendation

  • OPT Recommendation Form completed and signed by your Academic Unit
  • Form I-765: completed and signed by student
  • Form G-1145: to receive E-notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, please submit this form
  • Photos: two identical passport-style photographs that meet USCIS specifications. You must write your I-94 in pencil or felt pen on the back of your photos. Photos must be taken within 30 days of filing the Form I-765 with USCIS.
  • Immigration documents (single sided and no staples):
    • F-1 visa stamp copy
    • Passport copy
    • Most recent I-94 arrival record copy
    • Form I-20: must provide copies of all issued I-20 forms, including previous schools attended and OPT and CPT I-20s
    • I-797C Approval Notice – only applicable to students who had a change of status in the United States
  • Application Fee: Check or money order in the amount of $410 made payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card copy: submit any previous work authorization cards you may have ever been issued by USCIS

Forms

Resources