Post-completion OPT
Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to work in the U.S. after finishing their degree.
USCIS often takes over 90 days to process OPT applications, we suggest you plan accordingly. ISSS has no influence over how quickly your OPT application is processed by USCIS.
Navigate to a specific section using the links or scroll down the page.
- Post-completion OPT eligibility
- How to apply for post-completion OPT
- OPT for thesis and dissertation students
- STEM OPT extension
Post-completion OPT eligibility
You must be physically present inside the U.S. in F-1 status to apply for OPT. You can apply for post-completion OPT:
- After finishing all required coursework (excluding thesis or equivalent), or
- After completing your degree.
OPT employment must begin after the program end date listed on your Form I-20.
Important: Do not attempt to apply for OPT while outside the U.S.
How to apply for post-completion OPT
Step 1: Complete the OPT course in Blackboard
After completing the course you will also need to determine the dates you are requesting.
Step 2: Complete the OPT I-20 request
To complete the OPT I-20 request, log into the ISSS portal and complete OPT request.
Please note that processing time is 7-10 business (working) days after the information is completed by the academic advisor.
Step 3: Download OPT I-20 from the ISSS portal
You will receive an email when your I-20 with the OPT recommendation (on page 2) is ready in the international student portal.
- Check that the information on your I-20 is accurate.
- Check that it is signed by the Designated School Official (DSO) on page 1.
Looking ahead: Your OPT I-765 application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of when the OPT Recommendation I-20 is issued. The date of issuance can be found on page 1 of the I-20 next to the DSO signature.
Step 4: Complete the I-765 on USCIS's portal
To access the I-765 form, visit USCIS's portal.
Guidance for I-765 Online Filing for Post-Completion OPT
Please note that the OPT application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of the OPT I-20 being issued (on page 1 of the I-20, by the Designated School Official's signature.)
After USCIS receives your application, it may take 90 or more days to process. Premium processing is available for OPT applications and can be filed at any time for an additional fee.
You must wait to start work until you get your EAD card and your start date arrives. Please plan ahead to allow for processing time.
OPT for thesis and dissertation students
Students completing only a thesis or dissertation may choose between pre-completion or post-completion OPT.
If you use all 12 months of post-completion OPT and do not finish your thesis or dissertation, you must prepare to change status, start a new program or leave the U.S. before your grace period ends.
Post-completion OPT students:
- May work full-time.
- Subject to unemployment limits.
- Not eligible for program extension.
- Eligible for STEM OPT extension and cap-gap benefits.
Do you have a STEM degree and need an OPT extension for work?
F-1 students who completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a STEM field and are currently engaged in Post-Completion OPT may apply for a 24-month STEM Extension of their OPT if they have a job or job offer from an e-verify employer.