The OPT Process
As an F-1 student, Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows you to work in your major field of study for up to 12 months per educational level (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree), either on or off campus.
Start with the required tutorial
The tutorial helps you:
- Understand the application process
- Submit your request via myPassport
Read the tutorial carefully to understand the rules and regulations of OPT. This tutorial is mandatory before you can complete the OPT I-20 Application Form. If you have questions, meet with an advisor in International Student and Scholar Services.
Considerations
Unable to graduate on time?
If you have applied for OPT and will not finish your program as planned, contact International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) right away. ISSS will need to extend your program to match your new expected enrollment. This applies to undergraduate students or graduate students who will not finish coursework on the original schedule.
Withdrawing your OPT application
If you decide not to pursue OPT, inform your ISSS advisor immediately. You can withdraw your OPT application as long as the approved start date has not passed. Please note USCIS does not refund the OPT application fee.
After applying
After USCIS receives your OPT application, check the status of your application
USCIS will send a Form I-797 “Notice of Action” about two weeks after you submit your application. The receipt number is printed in the upper left corner of Form I-797. Once you have your receipt number, you can check the status of your application on the USCIS Case Status web page.
Notify International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) when you begin employment
Once approved for OPT, you must report any change of employment (new job, change of job, end of job) to our office within ten days. To maintain your F-1 status, you cannot be unemployed for more than 90 days during your 12-month OPT. Notify ISSS if you change employers or lose a job. You can report all employment changes in myPassport.
If you are planning on traveling internationally while your OPT is pending, please visit with one of our advisors to understand restrictions that may apply to your case.
Keep ISSS informed of your home address
You are required to keep us informed of your home address. Please report any changes within ten days. You can report any home address changes in myPassport.
Apply for 24-month STEM OPT extension
Eligibility requirements
If your post-completion OPT is based on a STEM degree (pdf) and your employer participates in E-Verify, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension. You must apply for the STEM OPT extension with USCIS before your initial OPT expires. The STEM OPT tutorial contains application requirements and deadlines. The STEM OPT extension begins the day after your initial OPT ends and lasts for 24 months, regardless of when the extension is approved.
You must meet all of the following requirements:
- Your major or area(s) of study are in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). Check eligible study areas.
- You are currently on post-completion OPT and have not exceeded 90 days of unemployment.
- Your employer is registered in the E-Verify system.
- You and your employer complete Form I-983 (pdf).
- Your employer agrees to complete ongoing evaluation and reporting during the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
- You have not already used two STEM extensions.