F-1 Initial OPT
(This page has a friendly link that's easy to remember: OPT.ucsd.edu)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of employment authorization for F-1 students. It is an opportunity to pursue a 12-month period of work experience in your major field of study, and can be used for a paid position located on-campus or off-campus. OPT is valid for up to 12 months (with a possibility of extension for STEM majors). During the OPT period, you maintain F-1 student status.
Stage 1: Request OPT I-20 from ISEO
ISEO Fee Increases for OPT / AT / STEM OPT and Extension AT Applications
Note that effective September 1, 2024, the ISEO Post-Completion Administrative Processing Fees for employment applications will increase. This includes F-1 OPT and STEM OPT as well as J-1 Academic Training and Academic Training initial and extension requests. These fees do not apply to pre-completion F-1 or J-1 employment applications. The new fees are as follows:
- OPT and Academic Training fee: $150
- STEM OPT and Academic Training Extension fee: $475
The Post-Completion Administrative Processing Fees are required for ISEO to comply with mandatory federal regulations and to maintain U.S. Department of Homeland Security systems for F-1 and J-1 SEVIS records for students who are no longer enrolled at UC San Diego, and who therefore no longer pay student fees in support of these compliance efforts. After leaving these fees unchanged since 2017, ISEO is now increasing them in order to maintain the highest level of support and services for our students as they pursue post-degree employment opportunities.
Video Summary
Step 1: Confirm Your OPT Eligibility
OPT Eligibility:
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Pre-Completion OPT |
Post-Completion OPT |
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This type of OPT is used during a students annual vacation and at other times when school is in session OR while school is in session provided that the training does not exceed 20 hours per week. However, it is recommended that students use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) instead of Pre Completion OPT. Learn more about CPT: cpt.ucsd.edu If you choose to pursue pre-completion OPT:
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Study Abroad Programs:
Time spent in a study abroad program may or may not count toward the academic year requirement. Please be sure you consult an ISEO Advisor to confirm your eligibility if you spent time studying abroad or spent time in another immigration status (e.g. E-2, H-4, etc) or if you are planning to participate in a study abroad program in your final quarter.
FAQs:
Step 2: Determine Your OPT Timeline
OPT Application Window:
Students have a limited time window to apply for OPT. USCIS must receive your application for Post-Completion OPT (Form I-765):
- No earlier than 90 days before your program end date/expected completion date.
- No later than 60 days after your program end date/expected completion date.
- No later than 30 days after the “Date Issued” on your OPT I-20.
Determine your OPT application timeline based on your graduating quarter:
OPT application timelines depend on the date each student will complete their program. Students are responsible for determining their own timelines.
Undergraduate Students:
- The program end date/expected completion date is generally the last day of their final graduating quarter.
Graduate (Master's or PhD) Students:
- The program end date/expected completion date may be different depending on enrollment or employment in their final graduating quarter. They may use whichever of the following dates is the latest:
- The last day of enrollment in their final graduating quarter, OR
- The last date of eligible on-campus employment as outlined by GEPA, OR
- If required to pay filing fee, date of Comprehensive Exam/Thesis Defense.
General OPT application timelines for students enrolled in their final graduating quarter:
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Graduating Quarter |
Last Day of Quarter |
Earliest Day USCIS Can Receive Application |
Last Day USCIS Can Receive Application |
Possible OPT Start Date to Request |
Earliest Day ISEO Can Receive iPortal Request |
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Fall 2023 |
Saturday, Dec 16, 2023 |
Sunday, Sep 17, 2023 |
Tuesday, Feb 13, 2024 |
Dec 17, 2023 - Feb 13, 2024 |
Sunday, Sep 3, 2023 |
| Winter 2024 | Saturday, March 23, 2024 | Sunday, Dec 24, 2023 | Tuesday, May 21, 2024 | March 24, 2024 - May 21, 2024 | Friday, Dec 8, 2023 |
| Spring 2024 | Friday, June 14, 2024 | Saturday, March 16, 2024 | Monday, Aug 12, 2024 | June 15, 2024 - Aug 12, 2024 | Monday, March 04, 2024 |
| Summer Session I 2024 | Saturday, Aug 3, 2024 | Sunday, May 5, 2024 | Wednesday, Oct 2, 2024 | Aug 4, 2024 - Oct 2, 2024 | Thursday, April 25, 2024 |
| Summer Session II 2024 | Saturday, Sept 7, 2024 | Sunday, Jun 9, 2024 | Wednesday, Nov 6, 2024 | Sep 8, 2024 - Nov 6, 2024 | Thursday, May 30, 2024 |
| Fall 2024 | Saturday, Dec 14, 2024 | Sunday, Sep 15, 2024 | Wednesday, Feb 12, 2025 | Dec 15, 2024 - Feb 12, 2025 | Thursday, Sep 5, 2024 |
| Winter 2025 | Saturday, March 22, 2025 | Sunday, Dec 22, 2024 | Wednesday May 21, 2025 | March 23, 2025 - May 21, 2025 | Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 |
| Spring 2025 | Friday, June 13, 2025 | Saturday, March 15, 2025 | Tuesday, August 12, 2025 | June 14, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025 | Wednesday, March 5, 2025 |
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Graduating Quarter |
Last Day of Quarter |
Earliest Day USCIS Can Receive Application |
Last Day USCIS Can Receive Application |
Possible OPT Start Date to Request |
Earliest Day ISEO Can Receive iPortal Request |
* If filing online close to any deadlines, note that USCIS operates on Universal Coordinated Time (UTC). Ensure all applications are complete and submitted before 4:59 PM PST of the current day for it to be considered as submitted on that day.
** Note for Winter graduates: If you intend to apply for H-1B in the future, it is recommended that you choose a start date of April 02 or later in order to be able to work under a Cap-Gap Extension, which is the period of time between the end of the EAD card and the start of the H-1B period (October 1). To be eligible for the Cap-Gap extension, your EAD card must expire on April 1 or later and the H-1B must be filed before the expiration of the EAD card.
FAQs:
Step 3: Pay the Post-Completion OPT Administrative Processing Fee
The Post-Completion OPT Administrative Processing Fee is required for ISEO to comply with mandatory federal regulations and maintain U.S. Department of Homeland Security systems for F-1 SEVIS records while students are no longer enrolled at UC San Diego.
- The fee is $150.00
- An additional $5.00 credit card processing fee may apply.
- Fees subject to change without prior notification.
- The fee is a non-refundable except in cases where ISEO is unable to recommend the OPT due to student ineligibility.
- Any refunds will be not include credit card service fees.
- This fee is separate from the I-765 application fee that goes to USCIS (as explained in Stage 2).
If you do not have a Postdoctoral Scholar offer at UC San Diego for your OPT period:
If you have accepted a Postdoctoral Scholar position at UC San Diego for your OPT period:
Step 4: OPT I-20 Request
Submit your "F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) I-20 Request" in iPortal.
- Upload a PDF copy of of your OPT administrative processing fee payment e-mail confirmation.
- Your OPT I-20 will be issued in 10 business days.
- If your application is pending with your graduate coordinator or college for more than 3 days, please reach out to them.
- You will be notified via email when the request is complete.
- Print and sign the I-20, and keep a copy for your own records.
Receive your OPT I-20
- Review your OPT I-20
- Review the OPT recommendation and requested OPT dates on page 2 of the I-20.
- Note your new Program End Date. If you are working on campus, your on-campus employment authorization ends on this Program End Date.
- Upload your signed OPT I-20 to your OPT application to USCIS (Form I-765)
- USCIS must receive your complete OPT Application IForm I-765) no later than 30 days from the 'Date Issued' on Page 1 of your OPT I-20 or by the end of your 60-day grace period, whichever date is sooner, otherwise your OPT Application will be immediately rejected by USCIS. You should not apply for your OPT I-20 from ISEO until you are ready to submit your OPT Application to USCIS.
FAQs
Stage 2: Submit OPT Application (I-765) to USCIS
Video Summary
Submit your OPT Application to USCIS
Compile your OPT Application:
Important Reminders:
- USCIS must receive your OPT Application no later than 30 days after we issue your OPT I-
- Submit a Replacement I-20 Request in iPortal if you need to restart the 30-day window.
- USCIS must receive your OPT Application within your 5-month eligibility window:
- No earlier than 90 days before the end of your program completion date.
- No later than 60 days after the end of your program completion date.
- If filing online close to any deadlines, note that USCIS operates on Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) which is 7 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST). Ensure all applications are complete and submitted before 4:59 PM PST of the current day in order for it to be considered as submitted on that day.
- For USCIS form details, including filing tips, direct filing address (paper forms), and instructions, visit the USCIS website.
I-797C Receipt Notice:
- USCIS will send a receipt (Form I-797C) within 30 business days confirming they received your application.
- If you do not receive this notice within 30 business days, contact USCIS Customer Service to confirm your mailing address.
- Your receipt will have a case number (beginning with three letters followed by 10 numbers).
Keep the original receipt for your records. This is the only way you can track your application at the USCIS Service Centers.
Processing Times and Premium Processing Option
USCIS Processing Times:
On average, student's applications are adjudicated within 90-120 days. You can check current general processing times for the Form I-765 on the USCIS Case Processing Times website. You can also use your Receipt Number (found on your I-797C Receipt Notice) to track the status of your specific USCIS application on the USCIS Case Status website.
[SHIFTING USCIS PROCESSING TIMELINES] Despite efforts to provide accurate estimates, it's not uncommon for USCIS timelines to shift. USCIS recalibrates its processing time estimates to reflect current realities and caseloads periodically. Therefore, posted timelines showing time to review (including timelines shown in the USCIS Online Account) are best understood as estimates rather than guarantees. Despite published processing times, note that you may receive a decision sooner or later via a formal notice of action (Form I-797) from USCIS. Students who are eager to receive a start date within 30 business days are encouraged to explore Premium Processing options.
Premium Processing Option:
USCIS offers premium processing for F-1 students seeking optional practical training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions. Premium processing provides expedited processing services within 30 business days. Premium processing is submitted through Online Filing of USCIS Form I-907 and is available to F-1 students in categories (c)(3)(B), and (c)(3)(C). Form I-907 can be filed as a part of the I-765 submission, or filed separately after the I-765 has already been submitted. This is a non-refundable fee. Review USCIS premium processing fee and FAQ's for more information.
FAQs:
Stage 3: Wait for USCIS Approval
Video Summary
Working and Traveling on Pending OPT
Working while your OPT application is pending with USCIS:
- You are NOT eligible to:
- Work on campus past the program end date on Page 1 of your OPT I-20.
- Work off campus past the CPT end date and program end date on Page 1 of your OPT I-20.
- Work without receiving pay in a position that should receive payment (different than volunteer opportunities).
- You can:
Traveling while your OPT application is pending with USCIS:
You are advised not to travel outside of the U.S. while your OPT Application is pending. Here are two potential scenarios:- Traveling before your program end date: Leaving and re-entering the U.S. will change the information on your Form I-94 (Arrival and Departure record). The I-94 submitted in the OPT application would no longer be correct, which may result in an RFE.
- Traveling after your program end date: CBP Officers may not allow students entry to the U.S. during or after their 60 day grace period unless they have a physical EAD card showing OPT approval.
If you need to travel outside of the U.S. while your OPT Application is pending with USCIS, talk to an ISEO Advisor.
Request for Further Evidence (RFEs) and Denials
Request for Further Evidence (RFE):
- In some cases, USCIS may request additional documentation from you by sending a Request for Further Evidence (RFE). You will also receive an RFE if your application is not complete.
- If you receive an RFE, please read the letter thoroughly. USCIS will explain why you are receiving the RFE and what documentation you need to provide. It is important that you reply to the RFE immediately to ensure that your OPT Application is still adjudicated.
- Receiving an RFE will delay the processing time.
Denials or Rejections:
- If your application has been denied or rejected by USCIS, please conenct with an ISEO Advisor. Email iemployment@ucsd.edu as soon as possible and attach a copy of your rejection letter or denial notice. As always, please also include your PID number in your email.
- If your I-765 is denied, the duration of your legal F-1 status reverts to being defined as lasting through the I-20 program end date plus 60 days of grace period. If you are still within the grace period, you may stay in the U.S. for the remainder of the 60 days and you may still have the opportunity to submit a new OPT Application.
Withdrawing your OPT Application or Starting a New Program
Withdrawing/Cancelling your pending OPT Application:
- Delays in Completing Academic Program at UC San Diego: To authorize post-completion Optional Practical Training, your I-20 was shortened to reflect your new program end date. If you cannot complete your program on time, you must meet with an ISEO advisor immediately.
- Cancelling OPT Application: Students may cancel their application as long as it has not been approved by USCIS. Contact USCIS directly and provide your case number (on your Receipt Notice). All cancellations must be in writing and mailed to USCIS. If you need to cancel your application, please contact ISEO immediately so we can assist you with this process. Once an EAD card is issued, the OPT cannot be cancelled, so please plan accordingly.
Starting a new program at a new institution:
- Withdraw your OPT application: If your OPT Application is still pending, it is advised that you withdraw/cancel your application with USCIS. Keep documentation of your withdrawal to show that your intentions changed during the pending decision period of your OPT Application.
- Transfer your SEVIS record: Submit a SEVIS Record Transfer Request in iPortal. You must begin instruction at your new institution within 5 months of your SEVIS Release Date.
Starting a new program at UC San Diego:
- Submit a Change of Level Request: If you want to start a new academic program at UC San Diego while your OPT Application is pending with USCIS, submit a Change of Program Level I-20/DS-2019 Request in iPortal. Talk to an ISEO Advisor to learn the timeline.
I-797 Approval Notice and EAD Card
I-797 Approval Notice
- USCIS will usually send an Approval Notice within 90 days after receiving your OPT Application to confirm that your OPT request has been approved. USCIS will then process and mail the Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card).
- Keep the Approval Notice for your records.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card):
- When you receive your EAD card, your employer will request a copy for their records to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S.
FAQs:
Stage 4: Maintain F-1 Status on Approved OPT
Video Summary
OPT Employment and Unemployment Day Limit
OPT Employment Requirements:
OPT employment can be:
- Part-time employment (at least 20 hours per week)
- Full-time employment
- Paid employment
- Unpaid employment (Students may work as volunteers or unpaid interns, where this does not violate U.S. labor laws.)
While on OPT, students may work for multiple employers, short-term multiple employers (performing artists), work for hire, self-employed business owner, or employment through an agency. Freelance employment is also allowed. However, all employment must be related to the degree program.
Relation to your Field of Study:
OPT allows for employment in your field of study. If you are an undergraduate student, the employment must related to your major, not your minor. If you are not sure whether the employment offered is in your field of study, you will need to review the curriculum you studied to make sure that the material you learned from your major courses is being used in the position you are being offered.
Students must be prepared to provide evidence of employment and how it relates to the major field of study if requested by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Therefore, it is in the best interest of the student to maintain evidence, for each job, of the position held, proof of the duration of that employment, the job title, contact information for the student's supervisor or manager, and a description of the work.
Valid Records of OPT Employment:
Though not required, ISEO highly recommends that students retain records of all reported employment while actively pursuing OPT. Regardless of if you are reporting a paid, unpaid, or volunteer position, we recommend you obtain an offer letter or request a letter from your employer detailing your position, start and end dates, and job duties. In the event you are traveling or need to demonstrate in a future application (such as H-1B or Permanent Residency) how you maintained status during OPT period, these documents will be important. If you are self-employed, volunteering, or interning, you should keep any documentation showing that you were engaged and working in your field of study. This document is not required for SEVP Portal.
Unemployment Day Limit:
During post-completion OPT, maintaining your F-1 status is dependent upon employment. Students may not exceed a cumulative total of 90 days of unemployment during the post-completion OPT period. Unemployment days are counted from the ‘Valid From’ date on your EAD card. Students who exceed 90 days of unemployment are in violation of their F-1 visa status. There is no 60-day grace period after the 90th day of unemployment.
If you are approaching your 90 days of unemployment, you must take one of the following actions:
- Transfer your SEVIS Record from UC San Diego to a new institution.
- Change from F-1 Status to Another Status.
- Depart the U.S. and report your departure date in iPortal.
FAQs:
Report Employment in SEVP Portal
Create your SEVP Portal Account:
- On or after your OPT EAD start date (your Start Date printed on your EAD card), you will receive an email to your personal non-UCSD email from do-not-reply.SEVP@ice.dhs.gov to set up your SEVP Portal account.
- The subject line of the email will be: “Optional Practical Training Approval – the next step. Create an SEVP Portal account.”
- Follow the instructions in the email. Click the link in the email, submit your SEVIS ID, and create a password to set up your user profile.
Report Changes to SEVP Portal:
After you successfully create your SEVP Portal account, submit any of the following updates within 10 days of the change:
- Changes to your name
- Changes to your address in the U.S.
- Changes to your employer or location of employment
- Interruptions to your employment
Important note: You do not need to report your employment directly to ISEO; you only need to report your employment in the SEVP Portal. If you do not report your employment OR if you accrue more than 90 days of unemployment, your SEVIS record and OPT will be terminated. If you are changing your non-immigrant status or are no longer continuing to maintain your OPT, you should submit the Termination or Completion of Status Reporting Form.
Help with SEVP Portal FAQs:
- I never received an email to set up SEVP Portal. What should I do?
- How can I change the email address that is connected to SEVP Portal?
- My employment start date is more than 10 days ago, and SEVP Portal will not let me update it. What should I do?
- How can I end my OPT early if I decide to change status or leave the U.S.?
Update your I-20
If you need an updated I-20, request log into iPortal and scroll to the "Alumni" section:
- If you are requesting an updated I-20 that shows your OPT status as going from pending to approved, submit an “Updated I-20/DS-2019 Request".
- If you are requesting an updated I-20 for updates to employer information, submit an "Updated I-20/DS-2019 Request".
- If you are requesting an updated I-20 for a new travel signature, submit the "Travel Signature I-20/DS-2019 Request".
- If you are requesting an updated I-20 due to the I-20 being lost, damaged, or stolen, submit the "Replacement I-20/DS-2019 Request".
Travelling on Approved OPT
Students on OPT are still in F-1 student status. To reenter the U.S., you must have:
- Current passport that is valid up to six months after reentry date
- Current F-1 visa
- Current I-20 with valid travel signature on page 2.
- For post-completion OPT, travel signatures are valid for only six months
- Original EAD card
- Recommended: Original job offer letter or verification of employment from employer
Students with expired visas may find it difficult to renew their F-1 visa for practical training purposes. Students on OPT are advised to plan carefully before leaving the U.S. and contact the U.S. Consulate in their home country regarding visa renewal processes.