Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization for practical training directly related to a student’s major field of study. Eligible students may be authorized for up to 12 months of total OPT per degree level.
PRE-COMPLETION: Work authorization for a period that will begin and end before the completion of the degree program. For more information about pre-completion OPT, visit the OIP.
POST-COMPLETION: Work authorization after completion of all degree requirements. OPT start date must be within 60 days of the completion of program date.
You do not need a job offer to apply for OPT.
Post-Completion OPT Eligibility Requirements are as follows:
- Currently be in the U.S. in valid F-1 status;
- Have a valid passport and I-94 record indicating F-1 and duration of status;
- Must have been enrolled in a full-time degree seeking program for one academic year (Fall and Spring);
- Be enrolled full-time at HT (or authorized for a Reduced Course Load) in the semester in which you apply for OPT;
- Have not completed a year of full-time CPT at the current degree level;
- Have not previously been approved for 12 months of OPT at the current degree level or a higher degree level;
- One 12-month OPT is allowed per degree level listed below:
a. Associates (AA)
b. Bachelors (BA/BS)
c. Masters (MA, MS, MBA)
d. Doctoral (PhD, JD) - Only pursue a job, internship, or volunteer position directly related to your major field of study.
When to Apply for Post-Completion OPT
Usually, USCIS application processing takes about 3.5 – 5.5 months from the receipt notice date and additional time if information is requested from you.
You may apply as early as 90 days prior to your program completion date. USCIS must receive your application no later than 60 days after your program end date and within 30 days of the date OIP issues your new I-20 with the recommendation for OPT.
Post-Completion OPT Application Process.
- Attend an OPT Session sponsored by OIP to learn about:
a. The documents and forms required for the OPT application and how to complete them.
b. The deadlines and processing time of OPT applications
c. Travel restrictions while on OPT
.2. Submit to OIP, a Completed Application packet which includes the following:
a. Check/money order in the amount of $410 payable to “US Department of Homeland Security.
b. Two identical U.S.-style passport photos (see attached photo specifications). In pencil, print your name and write your
I-94 number on the back of each photo. You may put the photos and check/money order in an envelope and
attach to the front of the I-765 (do not staple the photos).
c. Completed form I-765 (PDF).
d. Verification of Completion of Academic Program Form completed by you and your academic advisor.
Please note that post-completion OPT dates must start within 60 days of the completion of program date.
e. Copies of all previous I-20s dating back to beginning of F-1 status (pages 1 and 2 only).
f. Valid passport (valid at least 6 months in the future).
g. I-94 (print-out from Customs and Border Protection ).
h. Previous Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, if applicable.
i. Form G-1145. Use this form If you wish to receive an email or text confirmation of your receipt number for
the lockbox facility. Clip the form to the front of the OPT application.3. OIP will review your entire OPT application packet and issue you a new I-20 with OPT recommendation noted.
This process can take 3-5 business days.4. When your new I-20 is ready, OIP will schedule an appointment for you to pick it up to add to your OPT application.
5. Once your application package is complete, you are ready to mail it to USCIS. USCIS needs to receive your OPT application
within 30 days of your new OPT I-20 issuance date. If not received within 30 days, the OPT will be denied and appeal if not possible.
