To apply for OPT after graduation, you need to file Form I-765. Start this process up to 90 days before your program ends and within the 60 days after. Verify you've maintained F-1 status and completed at least one academic year. Gather required documents, like your I-94 and Form I-20 with your Designated School Official's (DSO) recommendation. You'll also need to pay the $330 fee. After submitting, check your application status online. Remember, your employment must relate to your major, and there are specific guidelines to follow. You'll find even more useful details as you proceed further.
Key Takeaways
- Submit Form I-765 for OPT authorization within 90 days before or 60 days after your program end date.
- Ensure you maintain active F-1 status and have completed one full academic year before applying.
- Required documents include Form I-20 with DSO recommendation, I-94 record, and application fee of $330.
- Employment must directly relate to your major, and you have a limit of 90 days of unemployment during the 12-month OPT period.
- For STEM graduates, apply for a 24-month extension with an E-Verify employer within 60 days of DSO recommendation.
Understanding Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a valuable opportunity for F-1 students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study after graduation. With a maximum duration of 12 months per degree level, OPT allows you to apply your skills in a practical work environment. To take advantage of Post-Completion OPT, you need to submit your application within 60 days after your program end date, though you can start the application process up to 90 days before graduation.
To be eligible for OPT, you must have maintained valid F-1 status for at least one academic year and not have used the full 12 months of OPT at the same degree level. Your application to USCIS involves completing Form I-765 and including the application fee and supporting documents, such as a recommendation from your designated school official (DSO).
Remember that any employment under OPT must be directly related to your major area of study. Also, you're allowed a total of 90 days of unemployment during the 12-month OPT period, so it's essential to stay proactive in your job search to maximize this valuable opportunity.
Types of OPT Programs
When considering your options after graduation, it is essential to understand the various types of OPT programs available to you as an F-1 student. Here are three key types:
- Pre-completion OPT: This allows you to work part-time or full-time in a job related to your degree before you graduate, but only after completing one full academic year.
- Post-completion OPT: After graduation, you can apply for this program, which permits full-time work (20+ hours/week). Your application must be received up to 90 days before and 60 days after your program completion.
- STEM OPT Extension: If you've graduated with a degree from a STEM-designated program, you can apply for a 24-month extension, giving you more time for work authorization in a STEM-related field.
Each of these options provides valuable employment authorization opportunities that can enhance your employment information and experience. Remember, understanding these types will help you make the best choice for your career goals following your F-1 Optional Practical Training.
Eligibility Requirements
Understanding the eligibility requirements for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is vital to ensuring you can take advantage of this opportunity. To apply for OPT, you must be in active F-1 status and have completed one full academic year of full-time enrollment at an SEVP-certified institution. It's important to remember that you need to apply for OPT within 60 days following your program end date, although you can file your application up to 90 days before your graduation date.
You cannot have previously used all 12 months of OPT at the same degree level, as doing so disqualifies you from further eligibility. If you're a graduate student, you may qualify for OPT if you've completed all course requirements except your final projects, provided you maintain valid F-1 status. In addition, your employment must be directly related to your major area of study, which is a critical eligibility requirement. By ensuring you meet these criteria, you'll be well-prepared to take the next steps in your OPT journey.
Application Process Overview
The application process for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. To guarantee a smooth experience, keep these key points in mind:
- Timing: Submit your Form I-765 within 60 days after your program end date and no later than 90 days before your degree completion date.
- Documentation: Gather all required documentation, including a recent I-94 record, copies of any previous Employment Authorization Document (EAD) cards, and a completed OPT Academic Adviser Form.
- Fees and Approval: Be ready to pay the $330 application fee and confirm your F-1 status is valid while applying.
Before you submit your OPT application, get a recommendation from your Designated School Official (DSO) on your Form I-20, which must be printed and signed after the OPT recommendation is entered in SEVIS. Once you submit the Form I-765, remember that you can't start working until you receive your EAD and the start date indicated on it. Following these steps will help you navigate the OPT application process effectively.
Important Application Deadlines
Maneuvering the timeline for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is vital for your success after graduation. To maintain your eligibility, you can apply for your OPT application up to 90 days before your program end date, but you must submit it within 60 days after graduation. This means the latest application deadline is 60 days after your program end date, which usually coincides with your Commencement date.
It's important to check your I-20 for the accurate program end date to guarantee timely submission of your OPT application. Applying early is highly recommended since the average processing time for OPT applications is 3-5 months. This timeframe is significant to keep in mind as it affects your ability to start working on OPT as soon as possible.
Don't overlook the significance of the 60-day grace period post-completion. If you fail to apply within this window, you risk losing your eligibility for OPT altogether. Keep track of these deadlines, so you can navigate the application process smoothly and secure your opportunity to gain valuable work experience in your field after graduation.
Submitting Form I-765
After you've marked your calendar with important application deadlines, the next step is submitting Form I-765, which is vital for securing your job through OPT. This application for employment authorization must be filed with USCIS within 60 days after your program end date, so timing is essential.
Here's what you need to keep in mind:
- DSO Recommendation: Confirm you have a valid DSO recommendation on your Form I-20 before you submit Form I-765. This recommendation must be within 30 days of your application.
- Filing Window: You can file Form I-765 up to 90 days before your program completion date, but remember, your OPT start date must fall within 60 days post-graduation.
- Fees and Documentation: The application requires a fee of $330 and supporting documentation, including a copy of your I-94, a recent passport-sized photo, and the recommended Form I-20.
Once you submit Form I-765, check your application status online regularly, as it usually takes 3-5 months to receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Tracking Your OPT Application
Once you've submitted your OPT application, keeping track of its status is essential. You can easily check your application status online on the USCIS website. Here, you might see statuses like "Requested," "Pending," "Approved," or "Denied." If your OPT application remains in "Pending" status for more than 90 days without any updates, it's wise to contact USCIS to inquire about potential issues.
Once your application is approved, you'll receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, which allows you to work legally in the U.S. During this waiting period, it's important to maintain communication with your university's Office of Global Services (OGS). They can provide you with critical updates related to your OPT status and any changes that may arise.
If you ever find the need to withdraw your OPT application before approval, reach out to an International Student Advisor immediately. They'll guide you through the process and guarantee your application is withdrawn correctly. Staying proactive and informed will help you navigate this critical phase of your post-graduation journey smoothly.
Employment Guidelines During OPT
Employment during your Post-Completion OPT is an essential aspect of your post-graduation experience, and it comes with specific guidelines you need to follow. Understanding these guidelines will help you make the most of your OPT employment authorization. Here are key points to keep in mind:
- Your employment must relate directly to your major field of study.
- You must work a minimum of 20 hours per week, even if the position is unpaid.
- You can have a total of 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month OPT period.
To maintain your status, you must report employment changes to the SEVP Portal within 10 days. This includes job status, employer information, and any personal address updates. If you're considering self-employment, it's allowed as long as you can show a valid business license and that your business relates to your degree program. Remember, exceeding the 90 days of unemployment could lead to potential termination of your SEVIS record, so stay proactive in securing relevant employment throughout your OPT period.
STEM OPT Extension Details
The STEM OPT Extension is a valuable opportunity for eligible students to prolong their work authorization in the U.S. for an additional 24 months after completing their degree. To qualify, you need to be employed by an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program and follow a training plan that meets specific requirements.
You must apply for the STEM OPT Extension within 60 days of receiving a DSO recommendation, and you can submit your application up to 90 days before your current OPT expires. Remember, the STEM OPT Extension begins right after your post-completion OPT EAD expires.
During this extension, you're allowed a total of 60 unemployment days, plus any unused days from your initial post-completion OPT. However, be mindful that the combined maximum of unemployment days cannot exceed 150 days.
To guarantee a smooth shift, make sure your application is complete and submitted on time. By taking these steps, you can maximize your work authorization and gain valuable experience in your field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Too Late to Apply for OPT After Graduation?
If you're asking whether it's too late to apply for OPT after graduation, it depends on your timeline. You have a 60-day window post-graduation to submit your application. If you miss this deadline, you won't be eligible for OPT for that degree level. Make certain to act quickly and consult your Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance to guarantee you stay within the necessary timeframes and maintain your F-1 status.
Can I Apply for OPT After Graduate Certificate?
Yes, you can apply for OPT after completing a graduate certificate program, provided you've maintained your F-1 status and enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at an SEVP-certified institution. Remember, you need to submit your OPT application within 60 days after your program ends, and you can apply up to 90 days before completion. Just make sure your DSO recommends OPT on your Form I-20 before filing your application.
Can I Apply for OPT One Year After Graduation?
You can't apply for OPT one year after graduation. The application needs to be submitted within a strict 60-day window following your program end date. If you miss this timeframe, you'll lose your eligibility for OPT and can't regain it for that degree level. To stay on track, it's crucial to monitor your dates closely and file your application promptly, ideally within 90 days before your program completion date.
Does OPT Start Immediately After Graduation?
No, OPT doesn't start immediately after graduation. You must select a start date that falls within the 60-day grace period following your program's end date. You can apply for OPT up to 90 days before your program ends, but your employment can only begin after you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which takes about 3-5 months to process. So, plan accordingly to avoid any gaps in your employment.