Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Eligibility requirements:

• You have been in lawful F-1 status for a minimum of one academic year (by the time you wish to begin OPT).
• The work is directly related to your major field of study and commensurate with your level of education; however, a job offer is not required when you apply.
• Your application must be received by the USCIS Service Center before you complete the graduation requirements; you are recommended to send in application 90 days before you complete the graduation requirements.
• The application requires a recommendation by the DSO and approved by the USCIS Service Center.
• The training is limited to 12 months within the 14-month period following the completion of study after each educational level of a degree program.
• If you enter another education program during OPT, the USCIS will terminate your OPT.
• OPT terminates when you fail to comply with F-1 regulations (e.g. fail to report a change of address to DSO).
• If you have been approved for one year of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you are not eligible for OPT.

Work/Travel:

• You may not work until you have completed all requirements for your program of study, received the “Employment Authorization Document (EAD)” from USCIS and the specified starting date has arrived.
• To travel outside of US for a short period of time while on OPT and employed, you need a valid EAD, a valid F-1 visa, an endorsed I-20 within the last 6 months, and a letter from your employer; however, your return to U.S. is not guaranteed.  We strongly recommend that you do not travel outside of U.S. after graduation while your application is pending.

Application procedure:

1.  For NDNU international student office

• Complete an OPT application form.
• Complete the Graduation Verification Form and have it signed by your academic advisor.

2.  To be sent to the USCIS Service Center via a certified mail with return receipt requested (mail to:  USCIS Service Center, P.O. Box 10765, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-1076)

• Complete the I-765 Form (you can get it from the DSO, or download from http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-765.pdf) (in item #16 write “(c) (3) (b)”)
• Copy of I-20 with DSO endorsement within the past 30 days (see below)
• Copy of most recent I-20 that is stamped (first page only)
• Copy of I-94 (front and back)
• Copy of ID page from passport
• NEW $380 Fee (or see the USCIS website for current fee, write your I-94 number on the check, check payable to US Department of Homeland Security)
• 2 US passport style photos (write your name and I-94 number on the back of each photo)
• Photocopy of previous EAD if applicable
• Make an appointment to see the DSO in order to update your request in SEVIS.  Bring the above forms, your passport, and a copy of transcript to your appointment.  You will be given an endorsed I-20 if your application is complete.