Applying For Pre-Completion OPT

1. Request an OPT I-20 from the International Office by submitting an OPT Request Form. Your academic adviser must complete the advisor portion of the form confirming  your graduation date before an I-20 recommending OPT can be issued. You will receive the updated I-20 with the Pre-Completion OPT recommendation electronically.
2. Submit the form I-765, the signed I-20 with the OPT recommendation, and other required evidence to USCIS online within 30 days of the date of the OPT I-20 issuance.

There is an application fee when applying for OPT. Click here for the fee calculator. 

Check the current USCIS processing times when choosing a start date for your Pre-Completion OPT. 

You must be in the U.S. when you submit the form I-765

Completing the OPT application Form I-765 online

Click Form I-765 instructions for guidance on completing the application

• Set up a MyUSCIS account
• Gather and scan the supporting evidence to your computer
       Passport-style photo
       Proof of enrollment (transcript)
       Signed I-20 with the Pre-Completion OPT recommendation on page 2
       (make sure you have signed and dated page 1)
       Copy of the F-1 visa in your passport (even if it is expired)
       Copy of your passport photo page
       Your most recent I-94 arrival record
       CPT and previous OPT I-20s, if applicable
       Previous EAD card, if applicable
• Review and submit the application