Optional Practical Training F-1 OPT for Doctoral Students

Doctoral students have additional options to consider when planning to apply for Optional Practical Training. Students in doctoral programs may choose to follow the standard post-completion OPT guidelines to apply for OPT to start work after graduation. Additionally, doctoral candidates may apply for pre-completion OPT to work off-campus during their academic program, or post-completion OPT to work off-campus after the completion of all course requirements excluding thesis or dissertation. 

The chart below compares pre-completion and post-completion OPT options. Please review the chart carefully to ascertain the pros and cons of each option.

SEVP's comparison of OPT types for thesis/dissertation students

Pre-completion OPT

Post-completion OPT

May request either part-time or full-time work

May work full-time

Not eligible for the cap-gap extension of OPT

Eligible for the cap-gap extension of OPT

May not apply for the STEM extension from a period of pre-completion OPT

May apply for the STEM extension if otherwise eligibile

Not subject to the 90-day unemployment provisions

Subject to the 90-day unemployment provisions

May receive an I-20 program extension

Not eligible for an I-20 program extension

Must continue to enroll in courses

May need to find alternate visa status if unable to graduate before the end of OPT

Additional considerations for post-completion OPT based on completion of all coursework excluding thesis or dissertation

  • Your I-20 program end date will be shortened and you will not be able to extend it once you apply for post-completion OPT.

  • Your new I-20 program end date will become the last day you are eligible to work on-campus and/or receive a stipend from Penn.

  • While you are permitted to defend your dissertation and graduate while on OPT, failure to do so can lead to challenging circumstances.

To apply for post-completion OPT based on completion of all coursework excluding thesis or dissertation, you will need to complete the Affidavit of Understanding form along with your faculty advisor. You will be prompted to upload the completed form into the OPT I-20 Request e-form in iPenn.

Carefully discuss your plans and anticipated timeline for your dissertation defense and graduation with your faculty advisor and ISSS before initiating this option.