Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is the opportunity for F-1 students to apply knowledge gained in their degree program to off-campus work. All work during OPT must be directly related to your level and field of study. OPT is recommended by IPO and authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Normal processing time for this authorization is 60 to 90 days.

The maximum amount of time granted to work on OPT is 12 months per degree level plus a 24-month STEM extension for those who qualify. You may use some or all of the available 12 months of practical training during your course of study or save the full 12 months to use after you complete your program. OPT used during your course of study is called Pre-completion OPT. OPT used during after graduation is called Post-completion OPT.

Eligibility for OPT:

  • You must have been in full-time student status for at least one academic year (two semesters) by the requested start date of the OPT period
  • You must be maintaining valid F-1 status at the time of the application
  • You do not need a job offer to apply for OPT

Application Timelines:

  • For post-completion OPT, USCIS must receive your OPT application within the following timelines or the application will be denied:
    • No more than 90 days before program completion date
    • No more than 60 days after program completion date
    • New OPT I-20 issued within 30 days

OPT Application Process:

You must submit a timely application to USCIS and must receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before you may begin working. Follow the steps below:

STEP 1: Be Informed. Read the OPT handout* thoroughly and carefully. With questions, consult the International Programs Office.

STEP 2: Register to attend an OPT session

Remaining Spring 2025 OPT Sessions will be held:

  • Friday, April 4 - 12:00pm - 1:15pm
    • Location - Jones Hall, 1st Floor, Lariccia Room
  • Tuesday, April 22 - 12:00pm - 1:15pm
    • Location: Virtual - See meeting link in OPT session registration

STEP 3: To submit your request, follow this link to the OPT Request Portal and upload your completed OPT Recommendation Form* and required documents. Allow 7 business days to receive your new I-20 with OPT recommendation by email.

STEP 4: Compile the required OPT application materials:

  • One “passport” photo.  No eyeglasses can be worn in passport photos.  Passport photos can be obtained at some U.S. Post Offices, FedEx offices, and many retailers such as CVS.
  • I-94 record (found here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/)
  • Photocopy of your valid passport ID page(s)
  • Photocopy of previous CPT or OPT I-20(s) – if applicable
  • Photocopy of OPT I-20 (be sure you have signed the OPT I-20 on page 1)
  • Photocopy of I-20 with previous SEVIS ID – if applicable
  • I-765 filing fee.  Check the USCIS website for the current filing fee.

STEP 5: E-file your OPT application.  Refer to the OPT power point for a step-by-step guide to file for OPT.

  • Create an account with USCIS: https://myaccount.uscis.gov/
    • Choose “my USCIS” to apply for an immigration benefit.
    • Choose “File a form online”
    • Complete the OPT application electronically.  
    • Upload your application materials (see “STEP 3”)
    • Pay and submit the application.

Tips for Filing the Online Application:

  • The form uses logic which allows you to skip the questions you don’t need to answer!
  • Your form will save in draft status for 30 days. If you start the application and realize you messed up your OPT dates or need to get new photos taken, you can take a break and complete the form later.
  • If you’re inactive for 15 minutes, you will be automatically logged out.
  • Make sure your files uploaded properly. Documents and photos can only be up to 6 MB and they only accept certain file types. If you are getting an error, check the error message and do what you need to do to correct it.
  • REVIEW! Always review your application before you pay the fee. If you pay the fee and submit, you cannot make corrections.

STEP 6: Wait for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD card, also called the OPT card)

Within one month of sending the application to the USCIS, you should get a standard receipt notice. The “Receipt Number” in the top left corner of this receipt notice can be used to check the status of your case on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov or by calling the phone number indicated on the receipt. Keep in mind that this information is updated infrequently. You CANNOT begin working until you have received your EAD and are within the start and end dates printed on the card.

Maintaining status during OPT

You may not begin working until you have received your EAD card and are within the start and end dates printed on the card. All work during the OPT period must be directly related to your level and field of study at YSU. During your 12-month OPT period, you are eligible for 90 days of unemployment. If you accrue more than 90 days of unemployment, you will be out of status. During the OPT period, you must report any change of address or employer with 10 days of the change.

During the 12-month OPT period, you must update your address and/or employer information within 10 days of a change. There are two ways in which to make these updates:

You do not need to update both portals. Choose one portal in which to make the update. 

It is important that you keep good records of all employment during the OPT period (job offer letters, job description, pay stubs, etc.). This way, should you ever be asked to show this information in the future, you will have it to refer back to.