You are strongly advised to submit your OPT application to USCIS as early as possible given lengthy USCIS processing times. Post-completion OPT applications must be received by USCIS within 60 days of your program completion date. You must be in the U.S. in F-1 status at the time you submit your application to USCIS.
Office of Global Engagement
International Student and Scholar Services
OPT Application Instructions
Learn about the application procedure for Optional Practical Training.
Application Procedure
After Applying
When Can a Student Start Working?
A student may not begin employment until all three of the following requirements are satisfied:
- Student obtained an EAD from the USCIS;
- The date of authorized employment period has begun (see dates on your EAD card); and
- Student has completed all course requirements for your program of study (Post-Completion OPT only)
Please note that all on-campus employment (including fellowships and teaching/research assistantships) must stop by the program end date listed on page 1 of the student's I-20. Any OPT-eligible employment on-campus may resume after the start date of the EAD and should be reported by the student through the SEVP portal as OPT employment.