You can choose a start date as early as the day after graduation/your I-20 program end date, or as late as 60 days after graduation/your I-20 program end date.
- Example: My I-20 end date is on May 21. The latest start date you can enter is July 20 (May 21 + 60 days).
Once you choose a date and submit the I-765, you will not be able to change the requested start date date.
Choosing an earlier start date is better so that you have a better chance of being able to accept a job offer and starting work quickly. However, choosing a later start date would give you more time to find a job. It would delay when you would start accruing unemployment.
Keep in mind that whatever start date you request, you cannot start work until your OPT application has been approved, and the start date on your EAD work permit card has been reached.