Main Content
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 and time | Zoom Link |
|---|---|
| Sept 11, 2026 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Join |
View Past Sessions (Click Here)
| Date | Status |
|---|---|
| June 5, 2026 | Session ended |
| May 15, 2026 | Session ended |
| April 10, 2026 | Session ended |
| March 6, 2026 | Session ended |
| January 16, 2026 | Session ended |
| December 12, 2025 | Session ended |
| September 26, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | March 14, 2026 | August 11, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | May 23, 2026 | October 20, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 | September 19, 2026 | February 16, 2027 |
| Winter 2027 | December 19, 2026 | May 18, 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | March 13, 2027 | August 10, 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | May 22, 2027 | October 19, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | September 18, 2027 | February 15, 2028 |
Post-Completion OPT Start Dates
| Graduating Quarter | Program End Date | Earliest Date to Start OPT | Latest Date to Start OPT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | June 12, 2026 | June 13, 2026 | August 11, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | August 21, 2026 | August 22, 2026 | October 20, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 | December 18, 2026 | December 19, 2026 | February 16, 2027 |
| Winter 2027 | March 19, 2027 | March 20, 2027 | May 18, 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | June 11, 2027 | June 12, 2027 | August 10, 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | August 20, 2027 | August 21, 2027 | October 19, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | December 17, 2027 | December 18, 2027 | February 15, 2028 |
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 .
