OPT Application Instructions

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Step 1: Request OPT Recommendation from International Center

  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) I-20 Request Form
    • This form must be completed by you and your academic department.
  • Review OPT Presentation
    • You will receive a receipt after viewing this presentation. You will need to print the email receipt to include with your request.
  • Submit Post-Completion Administrative Fee Payment Receipt
  • I-94 Document
    • Print a copy of your most recent I-94 document
  • If summer will be your final quarter, you must also submit proof of summer enrollment (Example: email confirmation from UCI Summer Session or screenshot of your study list)

Step 2: Upload Your Request for an OPT I-20

Step 3: Receive your OPT I-20 

  • Your application will be reviewed by an International Student Advisor, after review of your application, you will receive a new I-20 with an OPT Recommendation on Page 2. Your I-20 visa document will be sent electronically via DocuSign.
    • Review Page 1 of your I-20 and look at the Program End Date on your I-20, this should reflect as your final quarter of enrollment at UCI.
    • Review the OPT Recommendation on Page 2 of your I-20.
  • Review Processing Times
    • *Processing times may be longer if application requires additional review/updates during processing period. 

Step 4: Prepare Your Application for USCIS

Apply Online: Create a USCIS online account and submit the form I-765 electronically, uploading electronic copies of documents listed below, and paying fees online.

  • Go to https://myaccount.uscis.gov/ to log in or sign up for a USCIS online account
  • Access the I-765 application by selecting “File a Form Online”
  • Choose Application for Employment Authorization (I-765) and follow instructions on the USCIS website and OPT Presentation in Step 1
  • The payment amount for the application will be generated automatically based on your responses on the application.
    • Payments can be made from your checking/savings account or credit/debit card
    • See the fee schedule for I-765 filing here.
  • Once you submit your application you can no longer go back and edit your responses.
Documents
(as listed in online filing system)
Instructions
2” x 2” Passport PhotoUpload your photo. See “Photo Requirements” in the online filing system.
U.S. Department of State Photo Requirements
U.S. Department of State Photo Check Tool
I-94Upload your most recent I-94.
Employment Authorization DocumentUpload your previous EAD card.If you have never been issued an EAD card, then upload a photocopy of your valid passport biographical page or most recent F-1 visa.
Previously authorized CPT or OPTUpload any I-20(s) showing CPT or OPT authorization
and/or Upload any prior EAD cards*If you have not previously done OPT or CPT, you can leave this blank
Form I-20Upload all 3 pages of your new I-20 (showing OPT recommendation on page 2)Make sure to sign the I-20 on page 1

Step 5: Submit Your OPT Application to USCIS

  • USCIS must receive your OPT Application within 30 days of the issuance of your OPT Recommendation I-20 and within your 60 day grace period.
  • It is recommended to keep a copy of your application for your records.
  • For information regarding the USCIS Premium Processing Option, read below. The International Center highly recommends applying early and to use premium processing only if necessary for your individual situation.
    • Beginning February 26, 2024 USCIS will increase premium processing fees for OPT and STEM OPT extensions. Premium processing is submitted through Online Filing of USCIS Form I-907 and is available to F-1 students in categories (c)(3)(B), and (c)(3)(C).  Premium processing provides expedited processing services within 30 calendar days. This is a non-refundable fee and can only be submitted at the time of your application to USCIS. Before you seek out this option, check USCIS’s current processing times.
    • On April 1, 2024, USCIS will increase filing fees for I-765 filing. Fees vary for online vs. paper filing. The International Center is recommending the use of online filing for all OPT/OPT STEM applications.

Step 6: Wait for USCIS to Adjudicate Your Request

  • I-797C Receipt Notice:
    • Immediately after applying, your online application will show a case number on the confirmation screen. This case number can be used to track the progress of your application on the USCIS Website.
    • USCIS will also mail you a paper I-797 Receipt Notice within 2-4 weeks of receiving your application.
  • I-797C Approval Notice/Employment Authorization Card (EAD):
    • If your OPT application is approved, you will receive an I-797C Approval Notice/Employment Authorization Card (EAD) to your mailing address.

Step 7: Reporting Requirements

  • OPT students are required to report new employment or changes to employment within 10 days of the change to maintain F-1 status reporting requirements. Click here for information about how to update employment during your OPT period.