How to Apply for OPT (online)

Step 1

Request a recommendation for OPT from the Office of International Programs with your DSO at the International Programs office to obtain this recommendation on your I-20.

Complete the Optional Training Practical Request form and submit to your school's OIP

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Step 2

• Visit https://myaccount.uscis.gov/ 

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• Create a USCIS online account

  • After creating your account check your email for a code from MyAccount@uscis.dhs.gov that you will use to log in.

  • Log back in and create your password.

  • Choose your verify method: email is recommended.

  • Select to log into your "My USCIS"

  • For account type, select "I am an applicant, petitioner, or requester"

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• Select "File a Form Online"

  • Select "I-765, Application for Employment Authorization"

  • Select "Start Form"

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• Select your eligibility category

  • C3A for pre-completion OPT (OPT used during your academic program)

  • C3B for post-completion OPT (OPT used after graduation)

  • C3C for STEM OPT extension (used only for students on an active period of post-completion OPT and meeting all other STEM OPT extension requirements)​

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• Select you reason for applying as "Initial permission to accept employment"

  • Note: Your draft will auto save as you work your way through the application but you must complete and submit it within 30 days of the date you received your Form I-20 with OPT recommendation.

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• Complete the About you section. Some helpful reminders for this section:

  • Make sure that your name matches your I-20 and passport name

  • Make sure that your mailing address is an address where you will be able to receive your EAD card at a later date

  • Make sure that your date of birth uses the format Month/Day/Year

  • Make sure that your travel information that you enter matches your I-94 Travel history, your I-94 can be accessed here

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• Complete Evidence Section. Some helpful hints for this section:

  • Make sure that all documents are saved and uploaded as PDF, JPEG, PNG only

  • Under 2X2 photo section, make sure to upload a passport style photo

  • Under Form I-94 section make sure that you upload your most recent I-94. You can get your most recent I-94 form

  • Under Employment Authorization Document or Government ID section, you should upload your passport and any previously issued EAD cards if applicable

  • Under Employment Authorized CPT or OPT section, upload any Form I-20s that show previously issued CPT or OPT, and upload any previously issued EAD cards if you have been approved for OPT previously

  • Under I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status section, upload your Form I-20 that has your OPT recommendation endorsed by your DSO on page two. Upload all three pages of your Form I-20

  • IMPORTANT: This is not just your most recent Form I-20, this Form I-20 must have the OPT recommendation on it from your DSO at the International Programs office. You would have needed to apply to the International Programs office in order to receive this Form I-20. If you are unsure, do not proceed until talking to the International Programs office.

  • For STEM OPT applicants there will be additional documents requested such as proof of your STEM College degree and Institution accreditation

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• Complete Review and Submit section

  • Check that all of your information is correct before submitting. You can download the draft snapshot and send it to the International Programs office to review with you before you submit your application. Once you submit your application you cannot make corrections. 

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• After you submit your application and agree to the applicant statement you will be redirected to pay.gov to make your payment. You must finalize the payment in order for the application to be considered complete. Until payment is received by USCIS your application will not be considered. You may pay by bank transfer (ACH) or via a debit/credit card issued by a US bank. The US billing address provided must match the details on your bank/credit card account.

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• After you submit you will receive a confirmation, select "go to my cases" to see your receipt notice. Remember to check in your account periodically for Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and the final decision letter.

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• Let the International Programs office know once you have completed your application.