Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Work authorization for F-1 students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study
Duration
12 mo
Extension
+24 mo
Form
I-765
Overview
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 international students to work in the United States for up to 12 months in a job directly related to their major field of study. OPT can be used before graduation (pre-completion OPT) or after graduation (post-completion OPT). STEM degree holders may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension, for a total of 36 months.
Eligibility Requirements
Valid F-1 student status
You must be currently enrolled or have just completed a full course of study at a SEVP-certified school.
Full-time enrollment for at least one academic year
You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year before applying for post-completion OPT.
Job directly related to your major
Employment must be in a position that directly relates to your major field of study as listed on your I-20.
No more than 12 months of full-time CPT
Students who have used 12 or more months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are ineligible for OPT.
DSO recommendation
Your Designated School Official (DSO) must recommend OPT in the SEVIS system and issue a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation.
Application submitted on time
You may apply up to 90 days before your program end date and must begin OPT no later than 60 days after program completion.
Application Process
Request DSO recommendation
1β2 weeksMeet with your international student advisor (DSO) at your school to request an OPT recommendation. Provide your requested start date and ensure it fits within the allowed window.
Receive updated I-20
1β5 business daysYour DSO will update your SEVIS record and issue a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation. Review it carefully for accuracy.
Prepare Form I-765 and supporting documents
1β3 daysComplete USCIS Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Gather required documents: new I-20, previous I-20s, passport, visa, I-94, and two passport-style photos.
Submit application to USCIS
1 dayMail your complete application package to the appropriate USCIS service center or file online if eligible. Pay the filing fee (currently $410).
Wait for EAD card
3β5 monthsUSCIS will mail you a receipt notice (Form I-797). Processing typically takes 3β5 months. You can check status online with your receipt number.
Begin employment
After EAD receivedYou may only start working on or after the OPT start date shown on your EAD card. Keep USCIS and your DSO informed of your employer details within 10 days of starting work.
Timeline
Plan for 3β5 months from DSO recommendation to EAD receipt. Apply as early as 90 days before your program end date to allow processing time.