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Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT allows F-1 students to engage in temporary training directly related to their field of study.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
- Maintained F-1 student status at the time of application.
- Enrolled full time for three consecutive quarters before OPT benefit starts.
(Time spent studying full time in a status other than F-1 may be counted) - Has not exceeded 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Upcoming OPT Info Sessions
| Date | Zoom Link |
|---|---|
| June 6, 2025 | Join |
View Past Sessions (Click Here)
| Date | Status |
|---|---|
| August 30, 2024 | Session ended |
| September 27, 2024 | Session ended |
| December 6, 2024 | Session ended |
| January 3, 2025 | Session ended |
| March 7, 2025 | Session ended |
| March 27, 2025 | Session ended |
| May 16, 2025 | Session ended |
📌 Dates and times are subject to change. Check the weekly ISSS newsletter for the most up-to-date info.
Pre-completion OPT
Pre-completion OPT is OPT that students can engage in before completion of their studies.
Learn More
Post-completion OPT
Post-completion OPT is OPT that students can be engaged in after completion of their studies.
Learn More
STEM OPT Extension
Students who majored in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) fields may be eligible to apply for STEM OPT extension after completion of post-completion OPT.
Learn MorePost-Completion OPT Application Timeframes
| Graduating Quarter | Earliest Date to Apply to USCIS | Deadline to Apply to USCIS |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn 2023 | September 16, 2023 | February 13, 2024 |
| Winter 2024 | December 16, 2023 | May 14, 2024 |
| Spring 2024 | March 9, 2024 | August 6, 2024 |
| Summer 2024 | May 18, 2024 | October 15, 2024 |
| Autumn 2024 | September 14, 2024 | February 11, 2025 |
Post-Completion OPT Start Dates
| Graduating Quarter | Program End Date | Earliest Date to Start OPT | Latest Date to Start OPT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer 2024 | August 16, 2024 | August 17, 2024 | October 15, 2024 |
| Autumn 2024 | December 13, 2024 | December 14, 2024 | February 11, 2025 |
| Winter 2025 | March 21, 2025 | March 22, 2025 | |
| Spring 2025 | June 13, 2025 | June 14, 2025 | |
| Summer 2025 | August 22, 2025 | August 23, 2025 |
Disclaimer: ISSS is able to provide students with general guidance on how to apply for OPT and maintenance of F-1 student status during OPT. However, any advice provided to students by our office, as well as information on this website, should not be construed as legal advice. Additionally, due to the fluid nature of governmental interpretation, U.S. government entities may change its interpretation of these immigration laws/regulations and eligibility requirements for benefits, at any time. We will do our best to provide students with the most current guidance. Each case is fact-specific and it is advised that students contact experienced immigration attorneys or seek advice from USCIS officers at a USCIS Field Office .
