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OPT (Optional Practical Training)
- Purpose: Allows current F-1 students to extend their student status without leaving the U.S.
- Process: Typically involves updating the I-20 form with your Designated School Official (DSO) and filing with USCIS if necessary.
- Purpose: Converts a visitor status (B-1 for business or B-2 for tourism) to student status to begin or continue education in the U.S.
- Process: Requires filing Form I-539, an explanation letter, acceptance to a U.S. school, an I-20 form, and paying the SEVIS fee ($350).
- Purpose: Changes status from a student to a temporary worker, allowing full-time employment in the U.S.
- Process: Typically requires an employer to file a petition for the H-1B visa on your behalf. Once approved, the change of status can be activated within the U.S.
- Purpose: Converts J-1 status (used for exchange visitors) to F-1 status for students who wish to continue their education in the U.S.
- Process: Requires filing Form I-539, providing a valid reason for the change, and demonstrating continued eligibility for F-1 status.
- Purpose: Allows those on an H-1B work visa to change to visitor status if they no longer wish to work but want to remain in the U.S. temporarily.
- Process: Involves filing Form I-539, along with an explanation letter detailing the reason for the change, and paying the required fees.
- Purpose: Converts L-1 status (used for employees transferred within a company to the U.S.) to F-1 status to pursue education.
- Process: Similar to other student visa conversions, it requires filing Form I-539, an explanation letter, a school’s I-20 form, and payment of the SEVIS fee.
The OPT program grants international students the privilege to engage in off-campus employment in their field of study for a period of up to 12 months, which extends to 36 months for those in STEM fields. This opportunity opens the gateway to the US job market, presenting an invaluable stepping stone for career advancement. Internships secured through OPT not only boost your employability but also offer financial relief amidst the towering tuition costs of studying in the US.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a valuable benefit for international students holding F1 visas in the United States. This program allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their academic program. For those in specific STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields, this period can extend up to 36 months. OPT provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your professional skills and establish connections with industry professionals in the U.S.
Post-Completion vs. Pre-Completion OPT
There are two main types of OPT: post-completion OPT and pre-completion OPT. Post-completion OPT is the more commonly used option, allowing students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after completing their degree. On the other hand, pre-completion OPT permits students to work part-time in their field of study before graduation. However, any time used for pre-completion OPT is deducted from the total time available for post-completion OPT. Because of this, many F1 students choose to delay their OPT until after graduation to maximize their work authorization period.
STEM OPT Extension
For students with degrees in STEM fields, the OPT program offers an additional benefit: the STEM OPT extension. This extension allows eligible students to extend their post-completion OPT by an additional 24 months, giving them a total of 36 months of work authorization. To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, students must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an F-1 visa and have earned a STEM degree that is listed on the Department of Homeland Security's ICE STEM Designated Degree Program List.
- Be employed by an employer who is enrolled in the E-Verify program.
- Have previously been granted an initial post-completion OPT authorization based on the same STEM degree, and the employment must be related to that degree.
Understanding and utilizing OPT and the STEM OPT extension can significantly enhance your career prospects in the United States, providing valuable work experience and networking opportunities in your chosen field.
Who Can Use OPT?
Status and Academic Requirements
To be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must maintain your F1 visa status and complete at least one academic year of full-time study at a U.S. university. This requirement ensures that you are fully engaged in your academic program before seeking practical work experience. Additionally, it is crucial to be physically present in the United States when applying for OPT, as required by USCIS. This condition underscores the importance of being actively involved in your studies while planning for your career development through OPT.
Relevance to Your Field of Study
Another critical eligibility criterion is that your OPT employment or volunteer work must be directly related to your major field of study. This means that your work experience should align with the knowledge and skills you acquired during your academic program. For example, if you have a master’s degree in chemical engineering, you cannot use OPT to work in a completely unrelated field, such as real estate. This ensures that your practical training under OPT enhances your expertise and professional development in the area you have studied.
OPT Application
- When to Apply
- Checklist
- STEP 1: Request OPT
- STEP 2: OPT I-20
- STEP 3: USCIS Application
- *I-765 Form
- STEP 4: EAD Card
When to Apply
The OPT application process involves two essential steps. First, you need to request an OPT recommendation for your I-20 from your Designated School Official (DSO). Afterward, you must submit your OPT application packet to USCIS, which includes the OPT-endorsed I-20 signed by your DSO.
Processing Times
- University OPT I-20 Processing: Typically 5 business days.
- USCIS Processing: Can range from 1 to 5 months. It’s advisable to check the current USCIS processing times for Form I-765, specifically for "Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student [(c)(3)]" at the Potomac Service Center.
Application Timing: 90-60-30 Day Rule
- 90 Days: You can submit your OPT application up to 90 days before your program’s completion date.
- 60 Days: You must submit your OPT application within 60 days after graduation.
- 30 Days: Your application must be filed within 30 days of your DSO updating the OPT information in the SEVIS system.
You are eligible to apply for OPT from 90 days before to 60 days after your program's expected completion date. It is vital that USCIS receives your complete OPT application within 60 days after your program's completion date and within 30 days of your DSO’s OPT recommendation on your I-20. Additionally, you must be physically present in the U.S. when USCIS receives your application.
To avoid delays and ensure you can utilize the full 12-month OPT period, it’s recommended to start your application early. This also provides a buffer in case you need to reapply due to a rejection or denial.
Expected Completion Date
- Undergraduates: The last day of classes in the semester you complete your program requirements.
- Graduates: Either the last day of classes in the semester you meet your program requirements or the date your thesis/dissertation is submitted. If you have a job offer that begins before the semester's end, or if you are a graduate student with only a thesis/dissertation pending, consult your DSO. In some cases, you may begin post-completion OPT before submitting your thesis/dissertation.
Important: If you plan to apply for OPT after completing your program, ensure that USCIS receives your application before any travel outside the U.S. Exiting the U.S. post-completion without applying for OPT may prevent you from re-entering in F-1 status to submit your OPT application.
Applying early is crucial, as OPT applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Obtaining your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before you can legally work in the U.S. is essential. By minimizing the waiting time for the EAD card, you can ensure you’re ready to start working immediately after graduation.
Application Docs
- OPT application form
- I-765 form
- OPT I-20
- Copy of your passport
- Copy of your visa
- Application fee ($410 in the form of a check or money order)
- 2 U.S. visa photos (taken within the last 30 days)
Request an OPT I-20 from the DSO
Complete the specific OPT Request Form provided by your school and ensure it is endorsed by an Advisor. Given that each institution tailors this document for its unique processes, the form varies. However, you'll generally be asked to do the following:
- Confirm the expected date you will complete your program.
Note: your permission to work on campus ends on your Program Completion Date. You can only start working in your field of study again once the start date on your OPT EAD is officially approved.
- Gain the green light from your academic advisor.
- Choose the date you wish to begin your OPT.
- Remit the Post-Completion Services Fee to your institution, which is typically $100-250.
How to get your OPT I-20?
Your DSO will process your OPT request in about five business days, after which you'll receive a new I-20 with the OPT designation. Once you submit the OPT I-20 Request e-form, your academic advisor will get an email to verify your eligibility. After their approval, the International Office reviews your application and, if you qualify, issues a new I-20 with the OPT Recommendation within five business days.
Carefully check your OPT I-20 for any errors to avoid complications with USCIS. It's your responsibility to submit your OPT application to USCIS within 30 days of the Issue Date on your I-20 and no later than 60 days after your program ends. File your I-765 while in the U.S. and double-check the USCIS I-765 webpage for form accuracy and the correct fee when mailing your application.
Apply Online or Mail the Application
Be aware that the mailing address varies depending on whether you use USPS or courier services like FedEx, UPS, or DHL.
Online Submission (Preferred Method)
- Create an Account: Visit the USCIS MyAccount website and set up a new account.
- Start Your Application: Navigate to "My USCIS," then select "File a form online."
- Complete Form I-765: Choose the Application for Employment Authorization (I-765) and click "Start form" to begin.
- Need Help?: Refer to the "OPT Application Form Filling Guide I-765" in the appendix for assistance.
Postal Mail Submission
- Send From Within the U.S.: All mail submissions must originate within the United States.
- Choose a Reliable Courier: We recommend using services like FedEx or UPS for faster, more secure delivery. If you choose USPS, ensure your documents are sent to a designated lockbox, not through standard mail.
- Address Accuracy: The postal address you need to use depends on your location. Refer to the detailed address table provided below.
I-765 Form Step-by-step Guide
Basis of Eligibility
-
What is your eligibility category?
- Select: (c)(3)(B) Student Post-Completion OPT.
-
What is your reason for applying?
- Select: Initial permission to accept employment.
-
Have you previously filed Form I-765?
- If you have applied for OPT or an EAD card before, select Yes. If this is your first time applying for OPT or filing Form I-765, and you've only worked on-campus or applied for CPT, select No. Select Yes only if you've previously submitted an I-765, even if it was rejected, denied, or withdrawn.
Preparer and Interpreter Information
- Is someone assisting you with completing this application?
- If an attorney or translator is not assisting you, select No, and then click Next.
"About You" Section
-
What is your current legal name?
- Enter your name exactly as it appears in the Surname/Family Name and Given Name fields on your I-20. Leave the Middle Name field blank if it is not used on your I-20.
-
Have you used any other names since birth?
- If Yes, enter your previous names, including any nicknames used in official records or documentation. If your I-20 Preferred Name is different from your current name, include that here.
Your Contact Information
-
How may we contact you?
- Provide your Daytime telephone number, Mobile telephone number (if different), and Email address.
-
What is your current U.S. mailing address?
- Enter your mailing address. If it’s someone else’s address, include their full name (First Name Last Name). Ensure this person is listed as a resident at this address with the U.S. Postal Service.
-
Is your current mailing address the same as your physical address?
- If No, enter your physical address.
-
Other Personal Information
- Complete straightforward details such as gender and city of birth truthfully.
Your Immigration Information
-
What is your country of citizenship or nationality?
- List all countries where you are currently a citizen or national.
-
What is your Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number (if any)?
- Enter your current I-94 number, which can be found on your electronic I-94 record or the top left corner of your paper Form I-94 card.
-
When did you last arrive in the United States?
- Provide the date of your most recent entry, the place of arrival, and your status at arrival.
-
What is the passport number of your most recently issued passport?
- Ensure that the passport information matches the country on your I-20.
-
What is your travel document number (if any)?
- Leave this blank, as you have a passport, not a travel document.
-
What is the expiration date of your passport or travel document?
- Provide the expiration date of your passport.
-
What country issued your passport or travel document?
- Indicate the country that issued your passport.
-
What is your current immigration status or category?
- Your current status should be F-1 student. If it’s different, consult your advisor. This status should align with your current I-94.
-
What is your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Number (if any)?
- Use the "Additional Information" section to include any previously used SEVIS numbers if you’ve had previous F-1 or J-1 records.
Wait for your EAD card
Typically, the timeline for USCIS to process your case and manufacture your card spans 3-6 months. Thus, initiating your application preparation promptly is advisable for a smoother journey.
OPT Application and EAD card-producing progress checker:
opttimeline.com
Monitor the status of your application by entering your receipt date, and stay updated on the shipping progress after your card has been produced.
Lawfully APP
Experience seamless integration with the USCIS system through our app, which offers an exclusive, complimentary premium analysis. This unique feature forecasts the remaining days until you are authorized to begin employment in the U.S.
STEM OPT Application
Pre-Completion OPT Applications
- Eligibility: Students can apply for Pre-Completion OPT after their Designated School Official (DSO) has updated their SEVIS record with an OPT recommendation.
- Timing: Applications can be submitted no earlier than 90 days before the student completes a full academic year, ensuring that OPT employment does not start until after this period.
Initial Post-Completion OPT Applications
- Application Window: Must be filed within 30 days after the OPT recommendation is made by a DSO in the student’s SEVIS record.
- Eligibility: Students are eligible to apply for Post-Completion OPT up to 90 days before they complete their degree but no later than 60 days after graduation.
STEM OPT Extensions After Post-Completion
- Application Timing: For the STEM OPT extension, the application must be submitted within 60 days of the DSO's recommendation in the student's SEVIS record.
- Early Application: Eligible students can apply for this extension up to 90 days before their current OPT authorization ends.
Reactivating a Previous Degree's STEM OPT Extension
- Eligibility: If you have a previously earned STEM degree but have not used the 24-month STEM OPT extension, you can still reactivate this OPT.
- Requirement: To do so, you must complete an additional degree. If the new degree is not in a STEM field, you can still use the STEM OPT extension after completing regular OPT for the non-STEM degree.
- Limitation: The STEM OPT extension can only be used twice in a lifetime.
- Condition: Each STEM OPT extension must follow a period of regular OPT.
Expedite Your OPT Application
As of March 2023, the U.S. government has rolled out the Premium Processing (PP) service for F-1 visa students seeking:
- Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Post-completion OPT
- The 24-month OPT extension for STEM students
How to Apply for Premium Processing
For those looking to fast-track their application, fill out and submit Form I-907, known as the "Request for Premium Processing Service."
What to do if OPT is rejected?
Common Reasons for OPT Rejections and How to Address Them
1. Violation of the 30-Day Rule
OPT applications must be submitted within a specific window: 90 days before to 60 days after your program's end date. Additionally, USCIS requires that you submit your application within 30 days of receiving your OPT I-20 form from your Designated School Official (DSO). Failing to meet this deadline is a frequent cause of rejection among students.
2. Exceeding Full-Time CPT Limits
If you have used 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) before graduation, you are ineligible for OPT. To maintain eligibility, it's recommended not to exceed 11 months of full-time CPT or to use part-time CPT instead.
3. Unmet Degree Requirements
Each educational level allows for one OPT application. If you’ve already used OPT at the master’s level, you’ll need to pursue a doctoral degree to qualify for another OPT period.
4. Insufficient Time in F1 Status
You must be in F1 status for at least one full academic year to qualify for OPT. Graduating before completing this period or changing your SEVIS number resets your F1 status duration, which can disqualify you from OPT. Consider delaying graduation or making alternative plans if you find yourself in this situation.
5. Errors in Form I-765 or Supporting Documents
Common mistakes in the OPT application include using outdated forms, incomplete fields, unsigned documents, incorrect information, and non-compliant photographs. Ensure your application is accurate and complete to avoid rejection.
6. DSO Errors on Your I-20
Your DSO must issue an OPT recommendation I-20 and update your SEVIS record. However, mistakes can occur due to the high volume of applications. If you spot any errors on your I-20, promptly request corrections from your school.
What to Do If Your OPT Application is Rejected
1. Reapply for OPT
If your application was rejected due to technical errors (such as incomplete forms or missing documents), you can reapply. Contact your school’s international office for a new I-20 and resubmit your OPT application within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. Remember, a rejection allows for straightforward reapplication, whereas a denial due to eligibility issues requires a more complex approach.
2. File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider
- Motion to Reopen: Submit new evidence or facts to USCIS to have your case reviewed again.
- Motion to Reconsider: Request a review based on legal errors in the initial decision.
Both motions require filing Form I-290B along with the application fee, supporting documents, and a detailed statement within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. Due to the complexity of these motions, it’s advisable to consult an immigration lawyer.
3. Reinstate Your F1 Status
If your F1 status has expired, you can apply to a new school for emergency admission and obtain a new I-20. This may involve a "Reinstatement" process if your I-20 has expired. Reinstatement requires the following:
-
Application Materials:
- Form I-539 and $370 fee
- New and all previous I-20 forms
- Financial proof
- $350 SEVIS fee receipt
- Admission letter
- Passport and F-1 visa copies
- I-94 form
- Form G-1145
- Transcript and enrollment verification
- Personal explanation letter
- Support letter from the DSO
- Additional evidence as needed
-
Costs:
- Legal consultation fees: $1,000 - $2,000
- USCIS application fee: $370
- SEVIS fee: $200
If your F1 status is still valid, reactivating a new I-20 through travel may be a faster and simpler option compared to the lengthy domestic reinstatement process, which can take up to a year and may limit access to certain F-1 benefits. Given the complexity, professional legal assistance is often necessary.
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