OPT Application Guide — A Clear Step-by-Step Process for F-1 Students

🎓 OPT Application Guide — A Clear Step-by-Step Process for F-1 Students (2025 Update)

The OPT (Optional Practical Training) program allows F-1 students to gain up to 12 months of practical work experience in the United States after completing their degree.
Yet many students feel overwhelmed about when to apply, which documents they need, and how the EAD card affects their work eligibility.

1️⃣ What Is OPT?

OPT is a temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 students to work in a role directly related to their major field of study.
Students may use OPT during their program (pre-completion) or after graduating (post-completion), but most students choose the post-completion option.

2️⃣ OPT Eligibility Requirements — 2025 Rules

You must meet all of the following conditions:

🟦 ① Maintain valid F-1 status

Your SEVIS record must be active and in good standing, with no violations affecting your status.

🟦 ② Complete at least one academic year of full-time study

You must study in the U.S. full-time for a minimum of one academic year before becoming eligible for OPT.

🟦 ③ Work must be related to your major

USCIS may deny or question OPT if the job duties do not clearly align with your field of study.

3️⃣ When Can You Apply? — Understanding the OPT Timeline

You can apply for post-completion OPT during the following window:

• Up to 90 days before your program end date
• Up to 60 days after your program end date

Submitting early increases your chance of receiving the EAD card on time
and reduces the risk of delayed work authorization.

4️⃣ How to Apply for OPT — Step-by-Step

🟦 ① Notify your DSO that you want OPT

Your DSO will confirm your eligibility, explain required forms, and prepare your updated I-20.

🟦 ② Receive a new I-20 with OPT recommendation

Your DSO must enter the OPT request into SEVIS and issue a new I-20.
You must file your OPT application with USCIS within 30 days of this I-20 issuance.

🟦 ③ Submit Form I-765 to USCIS (online recommended)

Required items include:

• Form I-765 (online filing is fastest)
• OPT-recommended I-20
• Passport, visa, and most recent I-94
• Passport-style photo (online filing uploads digitally)
• Filing fee: $470 (2025)

🟦 ④ Receive your receipt number

You can track your case through your USCIS online account.

🟦 ⑤ Wait for approval and EAD card delivery

You may begin working only after the EAD card is physically in your possession and the start date has arrived.

5️⃣ After Approval — Your Responsibilities

🟩 ① Report your employment to your DSO

Your employer name, address, and job description must be kept up to date in SEVIS.

🟩 ② Follow the 90-day unemployment rule

You may not exceed 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month OPT period.

🟩 ③ Understand your tax classification

Most OPT participants remain Nonresident Aliens for tax purposes.

📘 Example — A Smooth OPT Approval

📎 Internal & External Links

🔑 Final Notes & EA Tax Tips

Applying for OPT is a major milestone for F-1 students entering the U.S. workforce.
While the process seems complex at first, following the correct timeline, maintaining status, and understanding your tax responsibilities ensures a smooth transition into employment.

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