1. Home ›
  2. Students ›
  3. Employment ›
  4. F-1 Optional Practical Training ›
  5. Applying for Post-Completion OPT

Applying for Post-Completion OPT

After reviewing the Post-Completion OPT information and confirming their eligibility to apply for this employment authorization, students will complete the following steps to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training - category (c)(3)(B). 

Application Process for Post-Completion OPT
1.

In ISSAlink, under F-1 Practical Training, submit the Optional Practical Training (OPT) I-20 Request form.

  • The student's academic advisor will receive an email from ISSA with a link to the OPT Advisor Recommendation form. It is the student's responsibility to ensure their advisor submits this form.
2.

ISSA will issue an updated Form I-20 with OPT Recommendation and email the student an electronic copy.

  • The student is responsible to review the program and OPT Recommendation information; if accurate, they will print and sign it.
3.

The student will prepare electronic copies of the following documents to upload to the online I-765 application:

  • updated I-20 with OPT Recommendation
  • passport biographical page (color or black and white)
  • 2X2 color passport style photo that meet US guidelines
  • most recent I-94 record
  • Any I-20s with CPT Authorization (if applicable)
  • Any previously issued EAD cards (if applicable)
  • Credit card information for online payment of $410.00 filing fee
4.

Create a free online USCIS account and file the I-765 application online at the USCIS I-765 Online Application

  • Review notes below for filing the I-765 application.

Special note: Premium Processing is available for the Post-CompletionOPT application; this guarantees that USCIS will respond to the petition within 30 calendar days, but it does not guarantee approval. The applicant will confirm within the online application they want to apply for Premium Processing and pay for it. Students can pay for Premium Processing any time after submitting the I-765.
5.

After submitting the OPT online application, the student monitors the site for notices from USCIS, including a receipt notice, any Requests for Evidence, and the approval or denial notice.

  • Generally, USCIS will issue a receipt notice within 48 hours when filing online.
6.

Student receives Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card issued by USCIS.

  • The student is not authorized to begin working until they receive the EAD and the start date has been reached.

Students can schedule a virtual advising appointment or stop by 105 Main Building during walk-in hours, Tuesday-Wednesday, 2-4:00pm, with OPT questions.