Post-completion OPT
General information
Post-Completion Optional Practical Training may be authorized for an F-1 student who has lawfully enrolled in an academic program on a full-time basis for one full academic year, after the completion of the degree or after completion of all course requirements for the degree (excluding thesis or equivalent). Post-Completion OPT is OPT authorized for employment after a student’s program end date on their Form I-20.
OPT application procedure
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.
Please verify the information on your I-20 is accurate, and it is signed by the DSO on page 1.
As a reminder, your OPT I-765 application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of the OPT Recommendation I-20 issuance. 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.
Once an application has been received by USCIS, it may take 90 or more days to complete processing. Premium processing is available for OPT applications and can be filed at any time for an additional fee. Students are not allowed to begin employment until they receive the EAD in the mail and the start date has been reached. Please allow sufficient time for processing.