How do I apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

 

How to Apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) – Step-by-Step Guide

✅ OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (or 36 months for STEM majors).

📌 You MUST apply before your 60-day grace period ends after graduation!

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🔹 1️⃣ Check OPT Eligibility

✔ You are in F-1 status and enrolled for at least one academic year.
✔ You have not used 12+ months of full-time CPT (which cancels OPT eligibility).
✔ You will work in a job related to your major.

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🔹 2️⃣ Choose Your OPT Type

OPT Type	When You Can Apply	Work Hours
Pre-Completion OPT (Before Graduation)	90 days before completing one academic year	Part-time (≤20 hrs/week) during school OR full-time during breaks
Post-Completion OPT (After Graduation)	90 days before program end date & up to 60 days after	Full-time (>20 hrs/week)
STEM OPT Extension (For STEM Majors)	Up to 90 days before Post-OPT ends	Full-time (for 24 more months)

📌 Most students apply for Post-Completion OPT to work after graduation.

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🔹 3️⃣ Request OPT Recommendation from Your DSO (Designated School Official)

✅ Contact your school’s International Student Office.
✅ Submit an OPT request form (varies by school).
✅ Your DSO will update SEVIS and issue a new I-20 with OPT recommendation.

📌 Do NOT apply for OPT without your updated I-20!

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🔹 4️⃣ Prepare Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)

✅ Download Form I-765 from USCIS Website.
✅ Fill in "Eligibility Category" as (c)(3)(B) for Post-OPT.
✅ Gather the required documents:

• New I-20 with OPT recommendation (signed by DSO).

• Copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months).

• Copy of F-1 visa page.

• Copy of I-94 record (Get it from CBP Website).

• 2 passport-size photos (Taken within last 30 days).

• Previous EAD card (if applicable).

• $410 fee (Paid via check, money order, or credit card Form G-1450).

📌 Double-check your documents to avoid delays!

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🔹 5️⃣ Submit Your OPT Application to USCIS

✅ You can file online through USCIS Online Filing OR mail your application.

📌 If mailing, send your application to the correct USCIS Lockbox based on your address.

🚨 Deadline: You must submit Form I-765 within 30 days of getting your new I-20!

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🔹 6️⃣ Wait for USCIS to Process Your OPT Application

✅ OPT approval takes ~90 days (3 months), but delays are common.
✅ You will receive:

• Receipt Notice (I-797C) → Confirms USCIS received your application.

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → Required to start working.

📌 You CANNOT start working until you receive your EAD card!

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🔹 7️⃣ Start Working & Report Your Employment to SEVP

✅ Once you receive your EAD card, you can start working.
✅ Report your employer’s details within 10 days through:

• Your school’s SEVP portal OR

• Contacting your DSO.

🚨 You cannot be unemployed for more than 90 days while on Post-OPT!

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🔹 Key OPT Application Timelines

📅 Apply: 90 days before graduation to 60 days after.
📅 Approval Time: ~90 days (sometimes longer).
📅 Start Working: Once you receive your EAD card.

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🟢 Summary: How to Apply for OPT?

✔ Step 1: Check if you're eligible.
✔ Step 2: Request an OPT recommendation from your DSO.
✔ Step 3: Prepare Form I-765 and required documents.
✔ Step 4: Submit the application to USCIS (online or by mail).
✔ Step 5: Wait for OPT approval (~90 days) and receive your EAD card.
✔ Step 6: Start working & report employment to SEVP.

Would you like help with filling out Form I-765, job search tips, or avoiding OPT delays? 😊