Current International Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

To view a specific topic, click on the appropriate link:

• Definition of Optional Practical Training
• Types of OPT
• Eligibility for 12-month OPT
• Eligibility requirements for the 17-month OPT extension after earning a STEM degree
• Eligibility requirements for “Cap-Gap” employment authorization
• Completion Date
• Visa Status
• Periods of unemployment while on OPT
• Travel on OPT
• Social Security Number
• Application Procedure for the 12-month OPT
• OPT Frequently Asked Questions
• H-1B Process

Definition of Optional Practical Training

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a benefit from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allowing international students in F-1 status to gain off-campus work experience in their field of study before or after completion of studies for a maximum of 12 months. F-1 students who received a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) field may apply for a single 17-month extension of their 12-month OPT period. The purpose of OPT is to complement student’s academic work. 

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Types of OPT situation

1. Pre- OPT - Before completion of a degree program, 20 hours during the semester, 40 hours during summer break. A separate application must be submitted for each session, Fall, Spring and Summer.
   Exception:   Students whose program of study includes a thesis/dissertation and who have completed all degree requirements (including required thesis/dissertation hours as indicated in POS) may engage in full-time practical training while completing their thesis/dissertation.
   Note: Students must be registered at ASU for the semester they wish to pursue Pre-OPT.
2. Post- OPT- After completion of a degree program.
3. 17-month OPT extension – Additional OPT time for students who have successfully completed a bachelor's, master's, or  doctoral degree in a field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics listed in the DHS-STEM designated degree program list. 
4. “Cap-Gap” employment authorization - Cap-gap is the time between the end of a student’s OPT period and the beginning of H-1B status.  It is an automatic extension of OPT work authorization and duration of status for ALL F-1 students who are on authorized OPT.

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Eligibility for 12-month OPT

1. Maintenance of F-1 status for a minimum of one academic year in current degree program.
2. Authorization by USCIS to attend ASU as reflected in current, validated I-20.
3. Continuous full-time attendance for duration of studies.
4. Proposed employment must be in student's field of study and commensurate with educational level.
5. Optional practical training may be permitted:  a) during annual vacation, if studies are continued in the next semester; b) while school is in session (part-time only); c) while writing a thesis/dissertation after coursework has been completed and comprehensive examinations passed (full-time possible); d) after  fulfilling all degree requirements (full-time only).

 

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Eligibility requirements for the 17-month OPT extension after earning a STEM degree

1. Student must be currently participating in a 12-month period of OPT, working for a U.S. employer in a job directly related to the student’s major area of study.
2. Student must have successfully completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in a field on the Department of Homeland Security - STEM Designated Degree Program list.
3. Student’s employer must be registered with the E-Verify employment verification system.
4. Student may apply for the 17-month OPT extension no earlier than 4 months before the 12-month OPT expires.

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Eligibility requirements for “Cap-Gap” employment authorization

1. Student must be currently participating in a 12-month period of OPT, working for a U.S. employer in a job directly related to the student’s major area of study.
2. Student must have an employer who has filed a timely H-1B application with a requested October 1 employment start date.
Note: The extended OPT authorization is automatically ended if the H-1B petition is rejected, denied or revoked. 

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Completion date

Immigration regulations require an exact determination of the date when student completes studies.  The completion date determines the type of OPT a student can apply for (pre-OPT or post-OPT).
Completion date used for:

• Undergraduates- last day of class and in most cases, graduation date.
• Graduate students- defense date or date of dissertation approval after defense, comprehensive exam date or result date, project defense, etc. whichever option the student has for the degree program to be completed. Completion date must be in the following format: MM/DD/YYYY.  Important! Students must choose the closest approximated completion date based on a realistic time frame. A change in completion date when the post-OPT application is already in process with USCIS will affect your OPT situation.

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Visa Status

While on OPT you still hold F-1 visa status. Therefore, you must continue to maintain your status by (including, but not limited to):

• Submitting a copy of your EAD card to the ISO upon receipt.
• Reporting employer name and address, breaks in employment, employer change by emailing ISOeadvisor@asu.edu.
• Reporting changes in your student information records, including residential address changes, through My ASU website.
• Keeping up with periodic immigration updates from the ISO through your ASU email account.

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Periods of unemployment while on OPT

During post-completion OPT F-1 status is dependent upon employment. Periods of unemployment are limited to the following:

• 90 days, for all students while on the 12 month period of OPT
• 120 days, applied to the whole 29 month period, if approved for the 17-month STEM extension. 

 

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Travel on OPT

If you choose to travel on OPT, you will need: a valid EAD card, OPT SEVIS I-20 endorsed by the ISO Designated School Official within the last 6 months, a valid passport, a valid visa and proof of employment to re-enter the U.S.
Exception: If you will only do Summer Pre-OPT, you may follow the student travel information. To view this information please visit Travel Reminders link on the ISO website http://asu.edu/international/travel.html.

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Social Security Number

If you are not currently holding a Social Security Number please contact the ISO at ISOeadvisor@asu.edu for details on requesting for an SSN while on OPT.

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Application Procedure for the 12-month OPT

1. 12-month OPT application for ISO processing can be submitted no sooner than 100 days prior to the employment start date. Deadline for OPT application is 3 weeks before the 60th day after the reported completion date.


2. Submit the following documents to the ISO in a sealed envelope marked “OPT APPLICATION,” including your name and ASU Affiliate ID. Incomplete application packet will not be processed!
   • Completed Academic Advisor’s Letter
   • Completed applicable form
     • Optional Practical Training Memo for Post-OPT applicants only
     • OPT/CPT Student Information Form for Pre-OPT and CPT applicants only
   • Print out of Unofficial Transcript from My ASU website showing continuous full-time attendance at ASU
   • Print-out of updated Address information page from My ASU website showing Local and SEVIS addresses
   • Photocopy of Passport valid at least 6 months into the future
   • Photocopy of I-94 (front and back)
   • Photocopy of prior Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable

 Notes:

1. It is highly recommended to apply for OPT 90-100 days prior to the employment start date and/or before the 60th day after the reported completion date to get the maximum benefit of 12 months. Please note: If you plan to delay the OPT start date beyond your completion date, you may not be granted the full 12 months of OPT.
2. You will receive notification from ISO for additional requirements and/or if you need to be called in for immigration advisement.
3. Complete documents will be adjudicated within 10 to 14 working days.

3. You will receive an email notification from ISO to pick up the processed OPT SEVIS I-20 and OPT application and mailing instructions. If you are unable to pick up the documents yourself, you may give an authorization letter with your signature to the ISO naming a person to act as your proxy in picking up the document.


4. Submit application to USCIS.  Note: USCIS must receive your application within 30 days after issuance of OPT SEVIS I-20. Additionally, your application must be received by the 60th day after your reported completion date if you are applying for Post- OPT. Failure to meet BOTH of these requirements will result in USCIS denial of your OPT application. 

(Application procedure for 17-month extension or Cap-gap extension for eligible students currently on 12-month OPT can be obtained by emailing ISOeadvisor@asu.edu)

Important!

• Follow instructions carefully when mailing your application materials to the USCIS and always keep a copy of your completed application for your records! Application packet must include: I-765 (two copies), Fee of $340, 2 passport style photos , Photocopy of I-94 (both sides), Photocopy of prior EAD, if any, Photocopy of OPT SEVIS I-20 endorsed by DSO and signed by the student, Photocopy of all former I-20s, Photocopy of passport page with name, photo and expiration date.  I-765 form can be downloaded at the USCIS website.  http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-765.pdf
• You should receive a Notice of Action from USCIS within four weeks.  If you do not receive your Notice of Action from USCIS within four weeks, please email ISOeadvisor@asu.edu so we may follow-up on this matter on your behalf.
• The information on the Notice of Action will allow you to track your application on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. Submit a copy of your EAD card to the ISO upon receipt by sending an email to ISOeadvisor@asu.edu along with your employment details (company name and address).

 

OPT Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have a job when I apply?

• USCIS does not require proof of employment when you apply for the 12-month OPT.
• Both the 17-month OPT extension and Cap-gap extension require current employment.

 

When should I apply for the 12-month OPT?

• Application for ISO processing can be submitted no sooner than 100 days prior to employment start date and no later than 3 weeks before the 60th day after the reported completion date.
• The ISO will not accept applications earlier than 100 days prior to employment start date and no later than 3 weeks before the 60th day after the reported completion date.
• OPT application must be received by the appropriate USCIS Service Center within 30 days after issuance of OPT SEVIS I-20. Additionally, your application must be received by the 60th day after your reported completion date if you are applying for Post- OPT. Failure to meet BOTH of these requirements will result in USCIS denial of your OPT application. 
• You must apply 90 days before your employment start date and/or your completion date to get the maximum benefit of your OPT time.  USCIS processing may take more than 3 months.
• You may not be granted 12 full months of OPT if you delay your application beyond your completion date.

 

When should I apply for the 17-month STEM extension?

It is recommended to apply for the 17-month STEM extension at least 120 days prior to the validity date of the current EAD card. Students who timely file an application for the 17-month STEM extension will be able to continue employment while the extension application is pending, until the final decision on the I-765 or for 180 days, whichever comes first.

 

What is the “Cap-Gap” employment authorization?

Cap-gap is the time between the end of a student’s OPT period and the beginning of H-1B status.

 

Do I need to apply for the Cap-gap extension?

• It is required to submit an application request to the ISO for an updated I-20 showing the Cap-gap extension. For instructions on the I-20 application procedure, please send an email to the ISO at ISOeadvisor@asu.edu.
• No application to USCIS is necessary. OPT work authorization and duration of status will automatically be extended until Oct 1 for those students who have been authorized for Post-OPT and have an employer who has filed a timely H-1B application with a requested Oct 1 employment start date.
• The extended OPT authorization is automatically ended if the H-1B petition is rejected, denied or revoked.  Please plan accordingly.

 

Can I apply for less than 12 months OPT and save the other months for later use?

• There is no problem with breaking months in a Pre-OPT situation.
• Breaking Post-OPT time into months is not recommended because it cannot be guaranteed that you will be able to obtain authorization to use the remaining months later.

 

What is the maximum period of OPT that I can apply for?

• The maximum period of Pre/Post OPT allowed before and after completion of studies is 12 months.
• The maximum period of Extension of OPT for STEM students is a one-time extension of 17 months.

 

Can I apply for 29 months of Post-OPT if I am a STEM student?

No. You have to apply for the 12-month Post-OPT first.  You can only apply for the additional 17 months to a previously approved Post-OPT. For eligibility requirements and details regarding the application of OPT extension for STEM students email ISOeadvisor@asu.edu.

 

What types of employment are allowed for students during an OPT STEM extension?

Students authorized for an OPT STEM extension must work at least 20 hours per week for an E-Verify employer in a position related to student’s STEM degree and the employment should be a “Paid employment.”

 

Can Students count volunteer experience as employment during an OPT STEM extension?

Students on a STEM extension are allowed to volunteer, incidental to their status. This means that volunteer work is allowed but does not count as employment for the purposes of maintaining F-1 status.

 

Can I do a second OPT after I finish a second degree?

• You are eligible for another 12 months of practical training only when you pursue a higher educational level.
• STEM students are only eligible for one lifetime extension of OPT for 17 months.

 

How do I know if my major/degree program is on the STEM Designated Degree Program list?

Send an email to the ISO at ISOeadvisor@asu.edu and we will respond accordingly.

 

What if I change my address while my OPT application is pending?

1)   You must update your local address through the MyASU website. 
2)   You must inform the ISO through email regarding the change. Include the new address and WAC number from your Notice of Action so we can send an address update to USCIS.
Note: Post office mail forwarding service will not automatically change your address in the USCIS system.

 

Can I send my application to other service centers while I am living in Arizona?

No. You must submit the OPT application to the appropriate center designated by USCIS, based on your current physical address as reported in SEVIS.  For Arizona residents, applications must be submitted to the California Service Center.

 

How can I avoid the delays and/or receiving a Request for Further Evidence (RFE) from the USCIS?

• Sign the OPT SEVIS I-20, on p.1, under item #11 Student Certification
• Sign the I-765 form in blue ink and in-between two lines only
• Follow the photo instruction in I-765
  • Two passport-style color photos with a white background
  • Taken no earlier than 30 days before submissions to USCIS
  • Lightly print your name and I-94 admission number on the back of each photo with a pencil 
  • Do not staple photos
• Fill out your personal check for fee payment properly
  • Correct date, Payable to Department of Homeland Security, amount in numbers $340 and in words three hundred and forty dollars and must be signed
• Follow the mailing instruction and checklist provided by the ISO when you pick up the OPT SEVIS I-20
• Mail your application via regular mail
• Report to the ISO if you change your address – however, it is HIGHLY recommended that you do not change address while your OPT application is pending to avoid mailing delays.

 

What if I don’t get the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) within 90 days as indicated in the Notice of Action?

Track status application online at the USCIS website www.uscis.gov and click on the link Case Status Online. You will need your WAC number found on the Notice of Action to do this transaction.

• If status is approved, you just need to wait for the card.
• If it is not approved, you must send an email to the ISO at ISOeadvisor@asu.edu with your WAC number, so we can send an email inquiry for your application.   

 

Can I start working before I get the EAD card?

No. The EAD card indicates the “actual” dates, which USCIS will allow you to work.

 

Can I request for an expedite of my OPT application?

As long as you have a current job offer, you can request for an expedite of your OPT application. You will just need to send the following documents to USCIS by fax (check with ISO for current fax number):

• Letter request for expedite. Make sure your letter is endorsed with your signature.
• Copy of the job offer letter
• Copy of your Notice of Action (they will need the WAC#)

Note: Please be aware that there is no guarantee that your OPT will be expedited as early as you want it to be but at least it is an opportunity to get your request in. 

 

What is the next step after I receive the EAD card?

After receiving the EAD card, you must scan and e-mail to ISOeadvisor@asu.edu the following: EAD card, employer letter (indicate employment start date and employer name/address). If not employed, indicate “Actively Seeking Employment.”

 

What if I change my employment situation while on OPT?

You must send employment records/updates to ISOeadvisor@asu.edu

• If you lost employment-submit a termination letter showing the duration (start and end date) of the employment.
• If changing employment-submit employer letter with employment start date and employer name/address.

 

Can I work on campus after completing my program?

Student Employment on campus ends upon completion of your degree program. Any student employment,
including assistantships after that date is considered unauthorized and will affect your immigration status.

 

Are there any employer and location restrictions for working in the U.S. while on OPT?

You may work for any employer/location in the U.S as long as the employment is directly related to your field of study including volunteer work or unpaid internships for at least 20 hrs per week.

 

What will happen if I accrue more than 90 days of unemployment during my 12 months of OPT?

Post-OPT is dependent upon employment. If you receive your EAD and you are not employed, you need to report to the ISO that you are “ACTIVELY SEEKING EMPLOYMENT.” Youmust continuously search for employment until you have secured a job to avoid jeopardizing your OPT status.

 

Do I need a Social Security Number while I am on OPT?

Yes. A Social Security Number is necessary to report your wages to the government. If you are not currently holding a Social Security Number please contact the ISO at ISOeadvisor@asu.edu for details on requesting for an SSN while on OPT.

 

Will I have to pay U.S. taxes for income earned while on practical training?

• In general, F-1 students who have been in the U.S. for fewer than 6 years are exempt from social security (FICA) and Medicare taxes as long as you continue to declare non-resident status for tax purposes (see Internal Revenue Service Publication 519, "U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens," which you can order by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM or download at www.irs.gov).  You should be sure to bring this to the attention of your employer because many employers are not familiar with this provision of the tax laws.
• Unless you qualify under a tax treaty between the United States and your home government, your earnings as an F-1 student will be subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes, and employers are required by law to withhold those taxes from your paychecks. By April 15 of each year, you must file a federal income tax return and a Form 8843, "Statement for Exempt Individuals," covering the prior calendar year--whether you owe more taxes or not.

 

What can I do if I want to withdraw my OPT application?

1. a) If an OPT application has not been submitted to USCIS
   Action: Return all of the OPT application materials you obtained from the ISO. The ISO will cancel your OPT record.
2. If an OPT application has been submitted to USCIS
   Action:
   • Student must write a letter to USCIS to request withdrawal of OPT application and submit to USCIS along with a copy of the Notice of Action (i.e. Receipt Notice).
   • ISO will provide student with current fax number for USCIS.
   • Student must inform ISO immediately as soon as request for withdrawal of OPT application has been approved for further immigration advisement.
   Notes:
   • Cancellation is not always guaranteed. Approval of cancellation will depend on the timeframe of the request.
   • The $340 fee is non-refundable.

 

What if I cannot complete my degree as reported on my OPT Application?

• Change of completion date may affect your OPT processing with USCIS, therefore it is recommended that you choose the closest approximated completion date based on a realistic time frame.
• In case of completion date change, you must submit to the ISO:
  1. A letter from your academic advisor stating academic justifications why you need more time and your new anticipated degree completion date in the following format: MM/DD/YYYY.
  2. A copy of your Notice of Action (i.e. receipt Notice.)
• Once the ISO reviews your advisor letter you will be contacted with immigration advisement as needed.
• ISO processing time for completion date change request is 10-14 working days. Please plan accordingly.

Additional information for students changing completion date:

• You must register for at least one credit hour each semester continuously until the completion date is reached. (Failure to register constitutes a violation of your F-1 status.)
• The registration requirement also applies to students who are pursuing research, revising a thesis or dissertation, or completing coursework for an incomplete grade.

 

Can I travel while on OPT?

• Travel while the 12-month OPT is PENDING is possible but not recommended. If you must travel, contact the ISO for advisement.
• Travel while 17-month OPT is PENDING is not allowed. You need a valid EAD card to re-enter the US. Plan accordingly.
• If your OPT is APPROVED and you have a job, you may travel and re-enter to resume work at the same job.

 

What documents are necessary when traveling during the OPT period?

To re-enter the US, you will need a valid EAD,  OPT SEVIS I-20 endorsed by the ISO Designated School Official within the last 6 months, a valid passport, a valid visa and proof of employment.

• Automatic visa revalidation on OPT: Citizens of some countries who are in the US with expired F-1 visa will be able to return to the US after travel to Mexico, Canada and the neighboring islands US territories under the following conditions: visit is not more than 30 days and the purpose is pleasure or vacation only, maintained F-1 status at all times, has I-20 endorsed for travel within the last 6 months, a valid passport,  a valid EAD with proof of employment. Check with an ISO advisor if your country is on the list of non-eligibility to receive the automatic visa revalidation benefit.

 

How can I get the travel endorsement on the I-20?

• You need to submit the OPT SEVIS I-20 to the ISO. Make sure that you include a copy of the EAD card and your employment letter (indicate employment start date and employer name/address), if you have not already done so.
• If you cannot bring your documents to the ISO in person, send a self-addressed stamped envelope along with your documents, for return.
• Travel endorsement will take 10-14 working days. Additional time is required if you request your I-20 to be mailed.

 

How do I apply for a visa renewal while on OPT?

Since you remain in F-1 status while you are on OPT, the same visa renewal information applies. If you are planning to renew your expired student visa in your home country you must apply early and expect delays. Consult individual embassy websites for periodic updates on country-specific visa processing. Lists of U.S. Embassies abroad can be accessed through this website http://usembassy.state.gov.  Submit your OPT SEVIS I-20 to the ISO for travel endorsement at least 10-14 working days prior to departure.
DOCUMENTS for visa renewal purposes: OPT SEVIS I-20 with updated travel signature, Passport, valid 6 months into the future, valid EAD card, proof of employment.

 

Can I enter the US on a different visa status and continue to work on OPT?

No. Do not enter the US on any visa other than F-1 or you will lose your F1 status and your OPT will be invalidated.

 

Do I need to keep my previous I-20s since I have the OPT SEVIS I-20?

Yes. You must keep all I-20 forms and all your immigration documents indefinitely for possible use in the future. The ISO keeps student files for one year only after your completion of studies.

 

How will I receive immigration updates from the ISO during the OPT period?

You will receive periodic immigration updates from the ISO through ASU email. Your ASU e-mail will be active during the OPT period. If you have problems setting ASU e-mails while on OPT, please contact ASU Computing Accounts directly.

For additional questions, send an email to: ISOeadvisor@asu.edu