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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 and time | Zoom Link |
|---|---|
| December 12, 2025 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Join |
View Past Sessions (Click Here)
| Date | Status |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| June 6, 2025 | Session ended |
| September 5, 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 2025 | March 15, 2025 | August 12, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | May 24, 2025 | October 21, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | September 13, 2025 | February 10, 2026 |
| Winter 2026 | December 20, 2025 | May 19, 2026 |
| Spring 2026 | March 14, 2026 | August 11, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | May 23, 2026 | October 20, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 | September 19, 2026 | February 16, 2027 |
Post-Completion OPT Start Dates
| Graduating Quarter | Program End Date | Earliest Date to Start OPT | Latest Date to Start OPT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | June 13, 2025 | June 14, 2025 | August 12, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | August 22, 2025 | August 23, 2025 | October 21, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | December 12, 2025 | December 13, 2025 | February 10, 2026 |
| Winter 2026 | March 20, 2026 | March 21, 2025 | May 19, 2026 |
| 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 |
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 .
