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This document outlines the application process and requirements for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 international students, detailing eligibility criteria, forms to be submitted, and guidelines

How to fill out optional practical training application

How to fill out Optional Practical Training Application

1. Obtain the Form I-765 from the USCIS website.
2. Fill out your personal information, including your name, address, and phone number.
3. Indicate the eligibility category by checking the box for 'F-1 student seeking post-completion OPT.'
4. Provide your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) number.
5. Enter the date you received your most recent Form I-20.
6. Include the name and address of your school.
7. Attach a recent passport-sized photograph that meets USCIS specifications.
8. Include the filing fee as a check or money order made out to 'U.S. Department of Homeland Security.'
9. Review your application for accuracy and completeness.
10. Mail the application to the correct USCIS service center based on your geographical location.

Who needs Optional Practical Training Application?

1. International students on F-1 visas who wish to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation.

People Also Ask about

Can I apply for OPT again if I was denied?

If you receive notice of the denial before your 60 day grace period expires, you may reapply for OPT but will need to resubmit all application materials again, including a new OPT Recommendation from OIA and the filing fee. The 2nd application will also be subject to the same standard processing times.

Why is OPT rejected?

A top reason for OPT rejections is failing to apply within the 30-day window after the Designated School Official (DSO) issues your OPT-recommended I-20. Students often overlook this deadline, thinking it aligns with their degree end date.

What makes you ineligible for OPT?

You can work on CPT either full-time or part-time. CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer. If you have 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are ineligible for OPT, but part-time CPT is fine and will not stop you from doing OPT.

Who is eligible for STEM OPT?

You must have received both degrees from currently accredited and SEVP-certified institutions, and cannot have already received a STEM OPT extension based on this previous degree. The practical training opportunity also must be directly related to the previously obtained STEM degree.

How do I apply for optional practical training?

Applying for OPT Request that your designated school official (DSO) at your academic institution recommend the OPT. Properly file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization with USCIS, accompanied by the required fee and the supporting documentation as described in the form instructions.

How long can I stay after OPT denial?

If post-completion OPT is denied, the student's F-1 status expires 60 days from the date the degree program ends or the date of the denial, whichever is later. However, if the application is denied because the student failed to maintain F-1 status, they must immediately depart the United States.

What makes you ineligible for OPT?

You can work on CPT either full-time or part-time. CPT requires a signed cooperative agreement or a letter from your employer. If you have 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you are ineligible for OPT, but part-time CPT is fine and will not stop you from doing OPT.

Why would my OPT be denied?

Degree Mismatch: Submitting an OPT application for a degree level already used for OPT. Insufficient F-1 Status: Not meeting the one-year F-1 requirement due to SEVIS ID changes or breaks in status. Incomplete or Incorrect Materials: Missing or outdated forms, improperly filled-out I-765, or invalid payment methods.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is Optional Practical Training Application?

Optional Practical Training Application (OPT) is a form that international students in the United States must submit to apply for temporary employment authorization in their field of study after completing their academic program.

Who is required to file Optional Practical Training Application?

F-1 visa international students who wish to engage in practical training related to their major field of study in the United States after completing their academic program are required to file the Optional Practical Training Application.

How to fill out Optional Practical Training Application?

To fill out the Optional Practical Training Application, students must complete Form I-765, provide the required documentation, such as copies of their I-20 and passport, and submit the application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the applicable fee.

What is the purpose of Optional Practical Training Application?

The purpose of the Optional Practical Training Application is to authorize F-1 international students to work in the United States legally in jobs directly related to their field of study for a limited period, typically up to 12 months, with potential extensions for STEM graduates.

What information must be reported on Optional Practical Training Application?

The information that must be reported on the Optional Practical Training Application includes personal details such as name, address, date of birth, immigration status, current school information, details about the OPT request, as well as the employment start and end dates.