General Info about OPT:  

What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)? OPT is a way to live and work in the U.S. and to gain hands-on experience in your academic field.

The week of April 7, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security published an Interim Final Rule, which makes changes to post-completion OPT. To view the changes, download and read Optional Practical Training Updates (PDF).

When can I apply for OPT? Students apply for OPT during their last semester of study.Students can apply for post-completion OPT up to 90 days before the program end date and up to 60 days after the program end date.

Note: The OPT application must be submitted to USCIS within 30 days of the date that the International Student Services school official enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS.

How do I apply for OPT? Please attend a workshop, review the OPT power point presentation and OPT instructions below and contact staff in the International Education & Programs Office (Sisson Hall ), for information about applying for OPT.

OPT Workshops currently being offered: 

• Wednesday, February 8th at 9 a.m. in Sisson 142
• Thursday, February 9th at 9 a.m. in Sisson 142
  

OPT Documents

• Optional Practical Training (Updated November 2010)  
• OPT Instructions(Updated November 2010)  
• OPT Adviser's Recommendation Form (Updated November 2010)  
• Form I-765 (Revised by USCIS on January 19, 2011)  
• Student Ackowledgement Form
  
• Form G-1145
  
  

17-Month STEM OPT Extensions Documents & Links

• STEM OPT Extension Fact Sheet
• Request for STEM OPT Extension
• Where to file STEM OPT Extension Application
• List of STEM Designated Degree Programs
• E-Verify Program
• Database of E-Verify Employers
  
  

OPT Updates

Check back for updates