Step 1: Request Pre-Completion OPT Recommendation from International Center
- Pre-Completion OPT I-20 Request
- Review the Pre-Completion OPT Presentation
- You will receive a receipt after viewing this presentation. You will need to print the email receipt to include with your request.
- I-94 Document
- Print a copy of your most recent I-94 document
Step 2: Upload Your Request for a Pre-Completion OPT I-20
- Upload the documents from Step 1 to the International Center’s Student Upload Tool
Step 3: Receive your Pre-Completion OPT I-20
- Your application will be reviewed by an International Student Advisor, after the review of your application is complete, you will receive a new I-20 with a Pre-Completion OPT Recommendation on Page 2. Your I-20 will be sent electronically via DocuSign.
- Review the Pre-Completion OPT Recommendation on Page 2 of your I-20.
- Review Processing Times (may need to create section for Pre-Completion OPT)
- 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 Pre-Completion OPT Presentation in Step 1. The eligibility category code for Pre-Completion OPT is (c)(3)(A).
- 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 Photo | Upload 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-94 | Upload your most recent I-94. |
| Employment Authorization Document | Upload 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. |
| Proof of Enrollment | Upload evidence of having been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year.Example: Copy of Official Transcripts from UCI |
| Previously authorized CPT or OPT | Upload 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 skip this section |
| Form I-20 | Upload all 3 pages of your new I-20 (showing Pre-Completion 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 Pre-Completion OPT Application within 30 days of the issuance of your Pre-Completion OPT I-20.
- It is recommended to keep a copy of your application for your records.
Step 6: Wait for USCIS to Adjudicate Your Request
- I-797C Receipt Notice:
- Immediately after submitting your application, your case number will be indicated 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 Pre-Completion 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.