Step 1
Request a recommendation for OPT from the Office of International Programs. Schedule an appointment with your DSO at the International Programs office to obtain this recommendation on your I-20.
Complete the Optional Practical Training Request and submit to your school's OIP.
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Step 2
Prepare and send the following documents to United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS):
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A Cover Letter detailing the enclosed documents.
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A completed Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization.
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The most recent version of the form and instructions can be downloaded from the USCIS website
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Please note, the eligibility code for an F-1 student applying for post-completion OPT is (c)(3)(B).
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A photocopy of Form I-20 with OPT recommendation
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Photocopy of F-1 Visa page of passport (does not apply to Canadian citizens).
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Photocopy of the biographical page of the passport.
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Photocopies of all previously issued Form I-20s.
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Photocopy of Form I-94 (Admission Number) or printout of electronic I-94.
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Photocopy of previously issued Employment Authorization Document (if applicable).
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Check or money order for $410 made out to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security."
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The processing fee for Form I-765 is subject to change. Please verify the correct amount before sending.
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Completed form G-1145.
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Form G-1145 is a way to sign up to receive a text messages and email notifications of the status of your OPT application. It is optional but highly recommended. The form can be found on the USCIS website
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Two identical color 2x2 inches photographs with your name and I-94 number written lightly on the backs.
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Photos must meet frontal passport specifications and should be on a white background taken no earlier than 30 days prior to submitting your OPT application.
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Please note that the photos must meet the following criteria:
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In color, printed on photo quality paper
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2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size
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Must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance
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Framed with full face, front view, eyes open
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Make sure photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin; the height of head shoulder measure 1 inch to 13/8 inch (25 mm to 35mm)
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Center head within frame
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Make sure eye level is between 11/8 inch and 13/8 inch (28 mm and 35mm) from the bottom of the photo
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Photographed against a plain white or off-white background
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Ensure positioning and lighting does not create distracting shadows on the face or background
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Have a natural expression
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Wear clothing you would normally wear on a daily basis (no uniforms, etc)
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Mailing in your OPT application
It is your responsibility to mail your application to USCIS. It is highly recommended that you use an express courier service (FedEx, UPS) or certified mail through the United States Postal Service.
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Visit the USCIS website for the mailing address.
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Your OPT application must be received by USCIS no later than 30 days from the date your OPT-endorsed Form I-20 was issued. Failure to do so will result in the denial of your OPT application.