Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) Guide
What is Pre-Completion OPT?
Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to work off-campus in a job related to their field of study before they complete their academic program. It is part of the 12-month OPT benefit students are eligible for at each degree level (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral).
Eligibility Requirements for Pre-Completion OPT
To apply for Pre-Completion OPT, students must meet the following conditions:
- Complete one academic year of full-time study before the planned start date for OPT.
- Be in valid F-1 status at the time of application and maintain that status during the OPT period, including full-time enrollment if necessary.
- Not have engaged in 12 months or more of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the current degree level.
- Have remaining OPT time available at the current degree level.
Additional Points for Students Applying for Pre-Completion OPT
- Students may work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year (fall and spring semesters).
- Full-time work (over 20 hours per week) is allowed during the summer and winter break.
- Employment must be directly related to the student’s major field of study.
- Pre-Completion OPT cannot extend beyond the program end date listed on the Form I-20.
- A job offer is not required to apply. However, once USCIS approves the OPT, any approved period will be deducted from the 12-month total of available OPT time.
How Pre-Completion OPT Works
- Pre-Completion OPT can be used for either full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or fewer per week) employment, depending on the student’s academic schedule.
- For Master’s and PhD students, OPT may also be used for full- or part-time work after completing course requirements, except for thesis/dissertation work.
- Pre-Completion OPT is subtracted from the total 12-month OPT allowance for each degree level:
- Full-time Pre-Completion OPT: One month of full-time OPT reduces the total 12-month limit by one month.
- Part-time Pre-Completion OPT: One month of part-time OPT reduces the total limit by half a month.
How to Apply for Pre-Completion OPT
- Request OPT I-20: Complete the OPT request e-form through IPENN and select “Pre-Completion” as the option. Your academic advisor must fill out the advisor portion of the e-form.
- Submit the OPT Application: Ensure USCIS receives your application within 30 days of the I-20 issue date. This includes submitting Form I-765 along with the signed I-20 with the OPT recommendation, required documents, and payment.
Required Documents for OPT Application
When applying for Pre-Completion OPT, have the following ready:
- Processing fee for Form I-765.
- Passport-style photo.
- Signed I-20 with the Pre-Completion OPT recommendation.
- Copy of your passport photo page.
- Most recent I-94 arrival record.
- Any previous CPT or OPT I-20s (if applicable).
- Previous EAD card (if applicable).
Important notes:
- USCIS processing takes about 3-5 months, so plan accordingly. Premium processing is available for an additional fee to expedite the review process.
- The OPT application is reviewed by USCIS, not ISSS, and is hard to cancel once submitted.
- You must be in the U.S. when submitting Form I-765.
| Feature | Pre-Completion OPT | Post-Completion OPT |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Before program completion (while still enrolled) | After program completion (after graduation) |
| Purpose | Gain practical training before graduation | Gain practical training in your field of study after graduation |
| Duration | Up to 12 months total, including both pre and post completion | Up to 12 months, with potential for a 24-month extension for STEM majors |
| Impact on Post-Completion OPT | Any pre-completion OPT used will be deducted from the 12 months of post-completion OPT available | Pre-completion OPT used will be deducted from the total 12 months of OPT available |
| Work Hours | Up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, full-time during breaks | Must work at least 20 hours per week, or full-time |
| Eligibility | Must be enrolled in a degree program and have been registered for at least one year | Must have completed all degree requirements |
| STEM Extension | Not applicable for pre-completion OPT | Eligible for a 24-month extension for eligible STEM majors |