What is OPT? What is the difference between STEM OPT and OPT? How can I apply for the OPT, STEM OPT, and EAD?
In the following, we will share the complete process, required documents, and essential tips with you in detail.
What is an OPT?
OPT/STEM OPT Application
EAD Application (i765 Guide)
OPT Jobs
OPT Rejections and Solutions
All about your EAD Card
What is an OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization granted to international students holding an F-1 visa in the United States, either before or after completing their studies. Its purpose is to provide students with the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study.
The application process for OPT begins with a preliminary review by the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO updates the student's information in the SEVIS system and issues a new I-20 form, after which the student can apply for the OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
If the OPT application is approved, USCIS may authorize up to 12 months of OPT at each educational level and issue an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to the student. Once the EAD becomes effective, international students may engage in employment directly related to their field of study in the United States. For post-completion OPT, qualifying employment must generally be at least 20 hours per week. Eligible students with degrees in qualifying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields may apply for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension before their initial post-completion OPT period expires.
Pre-Completion OPT v.s. Post-Completion OPT
F-1 students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for at least one full academic year at an SEVP-certified school may be eligible for pre-completion OPT to engage in employment directly related to their major area of study before completing their program. Students may file for pre-completion OPT up to 90 days before completing the one-full-academic-year requirement, as long as the employment does not begin before that requirement has been met.
Pre-completion OPT may be part-time or full-time depending on when the employment takes place. While school is in session, students may work no more than 20 hours per week. Full-time pre-completion OPT may generally be authorized during annual vacations and other periods when school is not in session, provided the student is eligible and intends to register for the next term.
However, please note:
- To apply for pre-completion OPT, the student must first obtain an OPT recommendation from the school’s Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO enters the recommendation in SEVIS and issues an updated Form I-20. The student must then apply to USCIS for employment authorization by filing Form I-765. USCIS, not the DSO, approves the OPT employment authorization.
- Using pre-completion OPT reduces the amount of post-completion OPT available at the same educational level. Therefore, students should carefully consider whether pre-completion OPT is the best option for their circumstances.
⚠️ After using pre-completion OPT, the remaining period available for post-completion OPT is generally calculated as follows:
- Full-time pre-completion OPT is deducted from the 12-month OPT allowance on a one-for-one basis; or
- Part-time pre-completion OPT is deducted at half the rate of full-time OPT.
⚠️ Under what circumstances might a student consider pre-completion OPT instead of CPT?
- When the employment opportunity is directly related to the student’s major but does not qualify as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) because it is not an integral part of the school’s established curriculum, pre-completion OPT may be an alternative if the student otherwise meets OPT eligibility requirements.
- Students who completed the one-full-academic-year enrollment requirement while in another valid nonimmigrant status may count that period toward OPT eligibility. However, the student must be in valid F-1 status when applying for OPT. USCIS requires evidence that the student was lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year at an SEVP-certified school.
Post-Completion OPT
This option is more common. Eligible F-1 students who complete their academic programs in the United States may apply for up to 12 months of post-completion OPT. Students with qualifying STEM degrees may apply for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension before their initial post-completion OPT expires, allowing eligible students to receive up to 36 months of OPT in total.
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OPT Application Timeline
When applying for the OPT EAD (Employment Authorization Document) with USCIS, applicants must adhere to the "90-60-30 Day Rule":
90
The OPT application can be submitted as early as 90 days before the program's completion date.
30
Beginning September 15, 2026, the filing window will generally be reduced from 60 to 30 days after the program end date.
30
The application must be filed within 30 days after the school's DSO has updated the OPT information in the SEVIS system.
For post-completion OPT, eligible F-1 students may file Form I-765 with USCIS up to 90 days before the program end date listed on their Form I-20. The application must also be filed within 30 days after the school’s Designated School Official (DSO) enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS.
For applications subject to the rules effective September 15, 2026, the Form I-765 generally must be filed no later than 30 days after the program end date. Certain F-1 students covered by the transition rules may still have a different filing window, so students should confirm their deadline with their DSO.
The “program end date” is the date listed on the student’s Form I-20. It is not necessarily the graduation ceremony date, the date the diploma is issued, or the last day the student attends class. Students should confirm their official program end date with their DSO.
For example, if the program end date listed on the Form I-20 is December 17, 2026, the earliest date to file for post-completion OPT would be September 18, 2026. Under the rules generally applicable after September 15, 2026, the latest filing date would be January 16, 2027, unless the student qualifies for a transition provision.
Students may begin preparing their OPT application with their DSO before the 90-day filing window opens. However, Form I-765 cannot be submitted to USCIS before the applicable filing window begins.
OPT Application Process
The OPT application process is simplified into these key steps:
- The student informs the school’s Designated School Official (DSO) that they intend to apply for OPT.
- The DSO recommends OPT in the student’s SEVIS record.
- The DSO issues the student an updated Form I-20 showing the OPT recommendation.
- The student files Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS.
- If USCIS approves the application, the student receives an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The student may begin working on or after the authorized start date listed on the EAD and must ensure that the employment is directly related to their field of study.
- Students on post-completion OPT must report their employment information and required changes to their DSO or through the SEVP Portal, as applicable.
Detailed Steps for OPT Application:
Step 1: Consult with the DSO or your program advisor
Consult with the DSO or your program advisor to determine your Completion Date.
Step 2: Submit a request to the DSO for an OPT recommendation I-20
providing the required materials (which may vary by school) including:
- Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization
- I-94
- Passport
- Previous EAD card (if applicable)
- A possible application fee charged by the school (Fee might vary by each school's DSO, normally $100 - $500)
Step 3: Prepare and submit your OPT EAD application materials to USCIS
You can file Form I-765 online or by mail. Application materials generally include:
- Your new Form I-20 with the DSO’s OPT recommendation
- Passport-style photo(s), as required
- A copy of your most recent Form I-94
- Form I-765 under category (c)(3)(B) for post-completion OPT
- A copy of your passport identification page and F-1 visa, if applicable
- Copies of any previous EADs and evidence of previously authorized CPT or OPT, if applicable
- $470 filing fee for online filing or $520 for paper filing
- Form G-1145 for electronic receipt notification if filing by mail
Step 4: Submitting the OPT EAD
Application Materials to USCIS. Note the different mailing addresses for USPS and other couriers like FedEx, UPS, DHL.
Online Submission (Recommended)
To submit your application online, visit the USCIS website at USCIS MyAccount and create an account. After logging in, select "My USCIS" followed by "File a form online." Choose the Application for Employment Authorization (I-765) and click "Start form" to complete the online form. For guidance on filling out the form, refer to the appendix below titled "OPT Application Form Filling Guide I-765."
Traditional Mailing
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The mailing must originate from within the United States.
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It is advisable to use courier services such as FedEx or UPS. If you must use USPS, find a specific lockbox on the USPS official website rather than using regular mail.
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The mailing address varies by region (see the table below for details).
Step5: Receive your OPT EAD Card and Report Employment to Your School’s DSO
- Expect a receipt from USCIS within a few weeks, allowing you to track your application online.
- The current processing time for F-1 OPT EAD cards is approximately 3-5 months. USCIS plans to offer Premium Processing for new F-1 OPT applications starting April, with an expedited fee of $1,500 and a processing time of 30 days.
- Once you receive your EAD card, you can officially start working. Remember to report your employment within 90 days of your OPT start date to avoid termination of your F-1 OPT status and SEVIS record.
Additional Important Notes on OPT:
- The job must be related to your field of study.
- If you don't have an SSN yet, you can request one on Form I-765 and expect it within a month after OPT approval.
- You can only apply for OPT once per educational level.
- A maximum of 90 days of unemployment is allowed during the 12-month OPT period.
- An employer offer is not required to apply for OPT, allowing for job changes as long as the work remains related to your field of study.
STEM OPT Application Process
If you are planning to apply for your STEM extension, aside from what we discussed previously, there are more things you need to take care of, including documents, eligibility, and so on.
When to Apply
You are eligible to request your STEM OPT Extension I-20 from the International Student & Scholarships Services (ISSS) as early as 90 days prior to the expiration date of your current 12-month OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Card. It's crucial to ensure that USCIS receives your STEM OPT extension application before the expiration of your current 12-month OPT EAD Card to maintain continuous employment authorization.
Eligibility
- F-1 Visa Status: You must currently hold F-1 visa status.
- Post-Completion OPT: You should be currently employed under a period of post-completion OPT.
- STEM Degree: Possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in an eligible STEM field.
- Job Requirements:
- Employer Participation: Your employer must be enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify program.
- Work Hours: The job offer must include at least 20 hours of work per week.
- Compensation: The position must be paid.
- Training and Learning Objectives: The job should provide formal training and learning objectives that are directly related to your qualifying STEM degree.
- I-983 Training Plan: You need to be able to complete the I-983 Training Plan with your employer.
Steps to Apply
Step 1:
- Submit Your I-20 Request: Initiate your request through your profile in your school's ISSS portal.
- Maintain F-1 Status:
- Ensure that you have been maintaining F-1 status.
- Confirm that your 12-month OPT information is up-to-date by checking the SEVP Portal.
- If any information is outdated, update it or submit a SEVP portal assistance request through your school's ISSS portal.
- Pay the STEM OPT Fee:
- Pay the STEM Post-Completion Training fee ($100-300).
- Save a copy of the receipt or payment confirmation for your records.
- Complete Form I-983:
- Complete the I-983 Training Plan with your employer.
- Review your graduated school's ISSS Tips for Form I-983 to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Follow your school’s instructions for completing the form and submit it to your DSO for review.
Step 2: Receive Your STEM OPT I-20 with OPT Recommendation
Before you submit your OPT application to USCIS, you MUST obtain a signed I-20 form that includes a STEM OPT recommendation from a Designated School Official (DSO). It is essential that you have this document in hand as proof of eligibility and endorsement for your OPT application. Ensure this step is completed to avoid any delays or issues with your application process.
Step 3: Submit Your I-765 Application to USCIS
Be aware of potential issues with EAD cards being sent to incorrect addresses when applying online through USCIS. Make sure to read any relevant posts or guidelines issued by your advising office to ensure that your EAD Card is sent to the correct address.
Note: Once you submit your I-765 application for the STEM OPT extension and receive a receipt from USCIS, you are automatically granted a 6-month extension. This extension allows you to continue working while your application is being processed, effective from the date USCIS receives your STEM OPT extension application. Ensure that your application is submitted before the expiration of your current OPT to maintain uninterrupted employment eligibility.
After Submitting the Application to USCIS
Here’s how you can manage your work authorization and potential employer changes during your STEM OPT extension period.
Your ISSS advisor will take necessary actions, such as providing a copy of an updated I-20 directly to USCIS, to support any changes or requirements related to your application. Always maintain open communication with ISSS to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
Continued Work Authorization and Travel
- Your work authorization is automatically extended for up to 180 days while your 24-month STEM OPT extension application is pending. The receipt notice from USCIS serves as documentation of this extended authorization.
- You are allowed to travel during your pending or approved STEM OPT extension period.
- If your employer requires information on what documents to collect as proof of extended work authorization, direct them to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' I-9 Central.
Changing Employers While Extension is Pending
- You are permitted to change employers while your STEM OPT extension application is still under review by USCIS.
- If you change employers, report this change to the ISSS through the 'Report New Employment' request on your school's ISSS portal. In the comments section, indicate that your STEM OPT extension application is pending with USCIS. It is mandatory to report employment changes within 10 days.
Handling RFEs, Returned, or Denied Applications
- If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), or if your application is returned or denied, notify ISSS immediately.
- It may be necessary for ISS to issue a new I-20 before you can respond to the USCIS inquiry or resubmit your STEM OPT application.
Step 0: Prepare for your account
If you plan to file electronically, you will need to register an account on the USCIS official website. If you are going to file by mailing, you need to fill in the i765 form and print it out.
- Select "my USCIS"
- Select 'File a Form Online' under 'Resources'
- Select "I-765, Application for Employment Authorization." Carefully read and review the information on the subsequent screens, then click "Next" to continue.
Step 1: Get Started Basis of eligibility
- Select (c)(3)(B) Student Post Completion OPT if you are going to graduate soon or have just graduated and applying for your first OPT.
- Select (c)(3)(C) STEM Extension if you are going to apply for a 24-month extension.
- If you are applying for Post-Completion OPT, choose 'Initial Permission to Accept Employment'. If you are applying for a STEM extension, select 'Renewal of Permission to Accept Employment' and mark 'Yes'.
Step 2: 'About You' Section
- Input your name precisely as it is listed in the Surname/Family Name and Given Name fields on your I-20 form. Please note that the I-20 form does not include a Middle Name field; therefore, leave the Middle Name field blank.
- If you have used any other names since birth, select 'Yes' and provide all previous names, including any nicknames used in official records or documentation. If the Preferred Name on your I-20 differs from the names you entered in the previous section, make sure to include it here as well.
- Enter your mailing address in the provided field. If the address belongs to someone other than yourself, enter their full name (First Name Last Name). It is important to ensure that this person is officially listed as a resident of the address with the U.S. Postal Service.
- The remainder of this section will ask for straightforward details such as your gender, city of birth, and similar information. Make sure to provide accurate and truthful responses for each field.
- List all the countries where you currently hold citizenship or nationality.
- Enter your current I-94 number, which can be found on your electronic I-94 record or at the top left corner of the paper Form I-94 card.
- List the details regarding your most recent entry into the United States.
- Enter any additional information required in the form. Most students will not have an A-Number (Alien Registration Number), so if this applies to you, you can leave that field blank.
Step 3: 'Evidence' Section
- Photo Upload: Provide a 2 x 2 inch photo of yourself. You can skip this step if you are only creating a draft for review.
- I-94 Upload: Upload a copy of your I-94 document. This can be skipped if the current task is to create a draft for review.
- EAD Card Upload: If available, upload a copy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. If you do not have an EAD, include a copy of your passport biography page and visa instead. This step can be omitted if you are preparing a draft for review.
- STEM OPT I-20 Upload: Upload the STEM OPT I-20 form signed by your school's International Student Advisor. If you are still awaiting this document and are preparing a draft, you can skip this step.
- Unofficial Transcript Upload: This requirement is specifically for students applying for a STEM extension. If you are drafting for review purposes, this can also be skipped.
- Institution Accreditation Upload: For applications based on a previously earned STEM degree, upload your institution's accreditation. This is only applicable for STEM extension applicants and can be skipped if you are preparing a draft for review.
Step 4: 'Other' & 'Review & Submit' Section
- Enter any additional information you deem necessary. This section is optional.
- You can review your form under the "Review and Submit" tab before paying the I-765 fee ($470) and submitting your request.
Employment Regulations & Types for OPT & STEM OPT Students
For students holding their 1st-year OPT
For Students on 12-Month Post-Completion OPT
Below are key guidelines and restrictions regarding employment during post-completion OPT:
- EAD Requirement for Employment: You may begin working only after USCIS approves your OPT and on or after the start date listed on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You may only work during the validity period shown on your EAD.
- Job Relevance to Academic Study: All employment must be directly related to your major area of study. This requirement also applies to employment with your university after graduation.
- Employment Hours: To be considered employed during post-completion OPT, you must generally work at least 20 hours per week in qualifying employment. Employment may be paid or unpaid, but unpaid work must comply with applicable labor laws. You should keep documentation showing your employment, duties, dates, and hours worked.
- Unemployment Limit: You may accrue a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month post-completion OPT period. The 90 days are cumulative and do not reset when you find a new job. You must report changes in employment and required personal information to your DSO or through the SEVP Portal, as applicable.
- Travel and Unemployment: Time spent outside the United States during post-completion OPT generally counts toward the 90-day unemployment limit unless you are employed and the travel is authorized leave from your employer or is part of your employment.
- Unemployment Caution: Exceeding the 90-day unemployment limit may result in a violation of F-1 status and possible termination of your SEVIS record. Students approaching the unemployment limit should contact their DSO to discuss their options.
Employer Type
Here are the permissible types of employment while on Post-Completion OPT (1st-year OPT), all of which must be related to your degree program. Each of these employment types requires strict adherence to the conditions of your OPT to maintain lawful F-1 status.
- Multiple Employers: You are allowed to work for more than one employer. Ensure that each job directly relates to your field of study.
- Multiple Short-term Employers: Suitable for individuals like musicians or performing artists, you can engage in multiple short-term gigs. Maintain a record of all gigs, including the dates and durations.
- Work for Hire (1099 Employment): Often characterized by contractual rather than employment relationships. If you opt for work for hire, keep detailed documentation of contract durations and the names and addresses of contracting companies.
- Self-employed Business Owner: You may start and operate your own business. It's important to ensure that you possess the relevant business licenses and that your business activities are closely related to your degree program.
- Employment Through an Agency or Staffing Firm: You can find employment through an agency or staffing company. You must provide evidence that you worked at least 20 hours per week on average while employed through the agency.
- Unpaid Employment: You may engage in volunteer work or internships, provided that these roles do not violate any labor laws. Ensure to keep proof of your involvement and hours worked, even in unpaid positions.
For students holding their STEM OPT
Here's a breakdown of the eligibility criteria and requirements for the 24-Month STEM OPT Extension. Both you and your employer must fulfill these requirements to be eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, ensuring both compliance with the program's regulations and the opportunity for continued professional development in your STEM field.
Student Requirements:
- Maintain Valid F-1 Status: You must be in good standing with your F-1 visa status.
- Current OPT Participation: You should be actively participating in a standard Post-Completion OPT period.
- STEM Degree Holder: Possess a degree from the official STEM Designated Degree Program List, as indicated on your I-20 form.
- Job Offer from E-Verify Employer: Have a job offer from an employer who is registered with the E-Verify program.
- STEM-Related Employment: Demonstrate that your job is directly related to your STEM field of study.
- Paid Employment: Confirm that the job offered is a paid position.
- Training Plan (Form I-983): Prepare and sign a detailed training plan with your employer.
- Timely Application: Apply for the STEM OPT extension before your current Post-Completion OPT expires.
Employer Requirements:
- E-Verify Registration: The employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): The employer must have a valid EIN.
- Training Plan Agreement: The employer must agree to the terms of the STEM OPT by completing their sections of the Training Plan (Form I-983).
Eligibility for a Second Period of STEM OPT After Higher Degree:
- New Academic Program: If you enroll in a new academic program in the U.S. and earn another qualifying STEM degree at a higher educational level, you may be eligible for a second 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Example: If you initially received a 24-month STEM OPT extension with your Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and later earn a Master’s degree in Computer Science or another STEM-eligible field, you can apply for Post-Completion OPT and subsequently, a second 24-month STEM OPT extension based on your Master’s degree.
Eligibility Based on a Previously Obtained STEM Degree:
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Accreditation and Certification: Both your current and previous degrees must be from institutions that are currently accredited and SEVP-certified.
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Degree Recency: The previously earned STEM degree must have been conferred within the last 10 years at the time of your current STEM OPT application.
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STEM Designated Degree: The previous degree must have a STEM eligible code as found on the STEM Designated Degree Program List at the time of application.
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No Previous STEM OPT Based on the Same Degree: You have not already received a STEM OPT extension based on this previous degree.
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Related Training Opportunity: The practical training opportunity must be directly related to the previously obtained STEM degree.
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Employer Compliance: Your employer must meet all the criteria necessary for a STEM OPT extension (such as being enrolled in E-Verify).
Example: If you are on Post-Completion OPT from a Master’s degree in Business and Management, but you previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics (a STEM-eligible field), you may apply for a STEM OPT extension based on your Bachelor’s degree, provided all the above conditions are met.
Reapply for OPT
If the rejection was due to technical errors, as outlined in reasons 5 and 6 from your notice, consult your school's international office for a new I-20 and resubmit the OPT application. Make sure all your documents are complete and reapply within 30 days of receiving the rejection. Note that a "rejection" usually stems from technical errors and permits a simple reapplication, whereas a "denial" pertains to eligibility issues and necessitates a more involved appeal.
Reinstate Your F1 Status
To legally extend your stay in the U.S., consider applying to a new school for emergency admission to regain F1 status. Choose programs that admit students quickly to obtain a new I-20 as soon as possible. Targeting a higher degree level than your last can help avert future OPT issues. If your current I-20 is expired and you've received a new school offer, you must apply for a "Reinstatement" of your student status.
File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider
File a Motion to Reopen to present new evidence or facts for USCIS to reconsider your case, or a Motion to Reconsider to address legal errors in the initial decision. Both actions require you to file Form I-290B, pay the applicable fee, provide supporting documents, and submit a statement within 30 days of the rejection. These processes can be complex, and consulting with an immigration attorney is recommended.
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Protect your EAD card
EAD Card Errors
- Identifying Errors: If your EAD Card contains incorrect information, it's important to address this issue promptly.
- Procedure for Corrections:
- Wait until you receive a job offer before requesting a correction so you can show the correct card to your employer. Ideally, corrections should be made after your employer has copied your EAD for hiring purposes.
- To correct a typographic error on your EAD Card, submit a request through the USCIS website.
Lost EAD Card
- Immediate Action Required: Since your EAD Card is essential for legal employment under OPT or STEM OPT, you must take swift action if your card is lost, stolen, or destroyed.
- Replacement Process: File a new Form I-765 with USCIS, accompanied by the required filing fee, to obtain a replacement card.
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