Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Overview

Watch this video to learn about OPT, including what it is, eligibility requirements, the application process, processing timelines and approvals, how to maintain status while on OPT, and information about the STEM OPT extension.

For more information, contact [email protected].

Eligibility

F-1 students are eligible to apply for the post-completion OPT if:

  • They have been approved for graduation from any non-ESL program at IAU.
  • Have not previously been approved for OPT at the same or a higher educational level.
  • Have not engaged in 12 or more months of full-time CPT.

Process

1

Speak With An Academic Advisor

If this is your last semester, please speak with your academic advisor to petition for graduation.

In order to apply for OPT, the student must first petition for graduation and receive a Notice of Graduation Eligibility. OPT eligible students are strongly encouraged to apply about 60-90 days prior to their graduation date to ensure timely filing.

Fill out the Graduation Petition and Evaluation Form.

2

Notice of Graduation Eligibility

Receive your Notice of Graduation Eligibility from the Office of the Registrar following your graduation petition submission.

3

Contact Career Services

Contact Career Services at [email protected] to learn what documents must be collected, and send them back for review.

4

OPT Documents Review

After document review is completed, Career Services will issue your OPT I-20, along with guidelines and procedures on how to apply for OPT online. Please carefully review all instructions before submitting your OPT application to USCIS.

5

Wait for a Decision from USCIS

Wait for a decision from USCIS on your I-765 application and keep Career Services updated. The USCIS waiting time might take 2 to 5 months. Please wait patiently.

OPT Application Assistance

Be advised that while IAU offers guidance on applying for the Optional Practical Training (OPT), this assistance does not constitute legal advice, and F-1 students bear sole responsibility for submitting accurate and complete application documents to USCIS. IAU cannot guarantee the outcome of any OPT application or be held responsible for any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) issued by USCIS. F-1 students acknowledge and accept that they hold ultimate responsibility for their OPT application and must ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

After OPT Approval

Students on OPT must report any employment or employment changes to the Career Services [email protected] within 90 days from the approved OPT start date (as noted on your EAD card). Please submit the following:

Once verified, we will update your OPT employment and may issue you an OPT I-20 that includes your employment upon request.

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