To complete the OPT application process you must:
1. Print out, read and complete (including adviser’s signature) the “Optional
Practical Training for Students on an F-1 Visa” form.
2. Read the “Instructions Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization”
page, found as the last page of the OPT print out form.
3. Complete the I-765 form on-line, print it and bring it with the other OPT form to
meet with an ISSS adviser for processing.
Optional Practical Training
for Students on F-1 Visas
Summary: Optional Practical Training (OPT) is permission
for off-campus employment granted by the U.S. Citizenship
and Immigration Service (USCIS). OPT enables students to
gain work experience in their field of study. 12 months of OPT
is available per degree level for students of any major as long
as the subsequent degree is at a higher educational level. OPT
may be used before or after completion of a program. Students
with certain majors in science, technology, engineering or math
may be eligible for a 17 month extension of post-completion
OPT. International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) must
recommend OPT for a student. USCIS then provides final
approval and issues an Employment Authorization Document
(EAD). Individuals must have an EAD before they can begin
OPT employment. OPT authorization granted by USCIS cannot
be changed, voided, or canceled.
Eligibility Requirements:
• Completed one full academic year of full-time study
• Valid F-1 status
• Good academic standing
• Employment must be in the student's major field of study
• Have not regained legal status through reentry during the
previous academic year
OPT Categories:
1. Pre-completion
a. Academic Year
During fall and /or spring semesters and student has
not completed required coursework. On and off
campus work combined may not exceed a total of 20
hours per week.
b. Vacation Period
Authorization may be part-time or full-time.
2. Post-completion
• For students who do not need to complete a master’s
degree Plan A or Plan