Module 2: How do I prepare for OPT?

When applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization, carefully review the application instructions and your documents. If information is missing or incomplete, USCIS will contact you to request what is needed, which will cause delays in receiving their decision. 

1. Complete the I-765 form at https://www.uscis.gov/i-765. In line 20 enter (c)(3)(A) for pre-completion OPT, (c)(3)(B) for post-completion OPT, or (c)(3)(C) for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. If applying electronically, create your online account at https://myaccount.uscis.gov.
2. Complete the G-1145 form at http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-1145.pdf to receive email and/or text notification when application is received by USCIS.
3. Print new passport photos. You must submit two identical color photographs of yourself that have been taken within 30 days of the filing of this application. The photos must be 2”x 2”, in color with full face, frontal view, on a white to off-white background. Head height should measure 1” to 1 3/8” from top of hair to bottom of chin, and eye height is between 1 1/8” to 1 3/8” from bottom of photo. Your head must be bare unless you are wearing a head dress as required by a religious order of which you are a member. Using pencil or felt pen, lightly print your name and I-94 number on the back of each photo. If submitting an online application, follow the U.S. Department of State's digital image requirements carefully.
4. Make copies of the following documents: picture page of passport, most recent visa, and all I-20s for your current degree. Color copies are recommended.
5. Retrieve your I-94: Save a copy of your I-94 record from. https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/. If you changed your immigration status within the US and have not traveled outside the US since the change, make a copy of your most recent I-797 instead.
6. Verify you have sufficient funds in your bank account for the application fee. As of April 1, 2024, there is a different amount depending on whether the application is filed online (currently $470) or by paper ($520). Paper submissions should include a check or money order paid to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security".
7. If you have had an EAD card before, make copies of any previous EAD cards and copies of relevant diplomas if the EAD was for post-completion OPT.

Verify this information using the USCIS's suggested checklist of required initial evidence and the instructions for Form I-765.

When your OPT application is ready, request an I-20 recommending OPT from OISP. Indicate your requested OPT start date, which can be as early as your program end date (graduation) or as late as the end of your 60-day grace period. A copy of the new I-20 must be mailed with your application packet and received by USCIS no more than 30 days after being printed by OISP.

General OPT information: Learn More > 
I-765 instructions: Learn More >
Information about retrieving your I-94: Learn More >
Calculate OPT Dates: Learn More >
USCIS Processing Times: Learn More >
Write a check: Learn More >
Write a money order: Learn More >