F-1 OPT USCIS Application
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When preparing the OPT application, download the Application Checklist as a reference for assembling the required materials.
Please Note: USCIS new fee and form changes are on hold. Students should use the I-765 Form 10/31/22 edition and $410 fee until further notice.
REMINDER: The OPT application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of the date on which ISSS issues an OPT I-20. If filed with USCIS after 30 days of the OPT I-20 issuance date, your application will be denied.
Interested in filing online?
As of April 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers F-1 students seeking pre- or post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or the STEM OPT extension the option to file Form I-765 electronically via the USCIS online portal. Follow the link below to learn more about the online I-765 filing process. Please note: Online filing is optional; you may still file via the paper process described on this page.
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You must be physically present in the U.S. until after USCIS receives your application for processing. Keep delivery confirmation whenever possible. We strongly recommend you discuss travel plans with ISSS before filing OPT to avoid rejection or denial.
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If you decide NOT to file your OPT application (Form I-765 plus supporting documentation) to USCIS for any reason, you must notify an ISSS advisor immediately so we can timely cancel your OPT recommendation in SEVIS. Failure to inform us can cause problems in the future.
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While OPT is pending, we strongly advise against changing the address listed on Form I-765. USClS has not been able to process change of address notifications properly. Changing your address while OPT is pending may result in being required to file a new OPT application with a new fee if your documents are lost. We suggest you use the address of someone who can receive mail on your behalf – remember to put “c/o”, followed by the person’s name and address, on Line 3 of Form I-765. The US Postal Service will not forward USCIS mail.
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If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), please consult an ISSS advisor immediately.
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Your OPT will be automatically terminated when you begin study at another educational level or transfer to another school.
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If you find any errors by USCIS on your OPT EAD card, please inform ISSS immediately.
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Immediately inform ISSS of any immigration status change.
Once your application had been filed, you should review the OPT Reporting Requirements.
