OPT Application Step-by-Step

Step 1: Request an OPT I-20 from Your DSO

The process begins at your school. Before you can file anything with USCIS, your Designated School Official (DSO) must recommend you for OPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and issue you an updated I-20 with the OPT recommendation noted on page 2.

1. Contact your international student office to request an OPT application.
2. Complete any school-specific OPT request forms or workshops required by your institution.
3. Choose your requested OPT start date (must be within 60 days after your program end date for post-completion OPT).
4. Your DSO reviews your eligibility, makes the recommendation in SEVIS, and issues the I-20.

Step 2: File Form I-765 with USCIS

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is the official USCIS form you must file to obtain your EAD card. You can file online through your USCIS online account or by mailing a paper application.

• Eligibility category code for initial post-completion OPT is (c)(3)(B).
• Online filing is generally faster and allows you to track your case status more easily.
• You must sign and date the form. For online filing, an electronic signature is accepted.
• USCIS will issue a receipt notice (Form I-797C) confirming they received your application.

Source: 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3)(B) — Employment authorization eligibility category for post-completion OPT

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Your I-765 filing must include several supporting documents. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons for application delays or denials.

• Form I-20 with OPT recommendation from your DSO (the most recently issued I-20).
• Two U.S. passport-style photographs (if filing by mail).
• Copy of your passport biographical page showing photo and expiration date.
• Copy of your F-1 visa stamp (unless you are visa-exempt).
• Copy of your most recent I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (available online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov).
• Copy of any previous EAD cards, if applicable.
• Copy of all previously issued I-20 forms (recommended but not always required).

Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee

The I-765 filing fee is set by USCIS and is subject to change. Check the USCIS website for the current fee at the time of your filing. Payment can be made by personal check, cashier's check, money order, or credit card (for online filing).

Step 5: Understand the Filing Window

The filing window for post-completion OPT is strictly defined. Filing too early or too late will result in a denial.

• Earliest filing date: 90 days before your program end date.
• Latest filing date: 60 days after your program end date.
• Your I-20 OPT recommendation must be made before you file the I-765.
• Your requested OPT start date must fall within 60 days after your program end date.

Steps 6 and 7: Processing Times and Receiving Your EAD

After USCIS receives your application, processing times vary. Historically, processing has ranged from a few weeks to several months. You can check current processing times on the USCIS website.

1. USCIS issues a receipt notice (I-797C) confirming your application was accepted.
2. Your case may be approved without additional action, or USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if something is missing.
3. Upon approval, USCIS mails your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) to the address on your application.
4. You may not begin working until you have the physical EAD card in hand and your OPT start date has arrived.

Once you receive your EAD card, verify that all information is correct, including your name, date of birth, and the validity dates. Report any errors to USCIS immediately.