International Students

Post-Completion OPT

Attention

Students applying for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM Extension OPT may file Form I-765 online or via regular post. You should NOT mail your documents to USCIS if you choose to file online. If you choose to mail in your OPT application to USCIS, you can find the filing address for the USCIS Chicago Lockbox Facility on the USCIS website at uscis.gov/i-765-addresses. If you choose to file online, here are some things to consider:


Post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is employment authorized to begin after a student's successful completion of studies and program end date.

General guidelines

Post-completion OPT timing considerations

Students interested in post-completion OPT should:

  1. Attend an OPT Workshop
  2. Complete the Application Form – Post-Completion OPT ( c ) ( 3 ) ( B )
  3. Submit completed application form and wait 3-5 business days for processing
  4. Obtain an updated Form I-20 endorsed for post-completion OPT
  5. Hand-sign the updated Form I-20 prior to making the scan to be included in your application packet (do not sign the I-20 electronically even if submitting the I-765 electronically).
  6. File the completed application online or mail the completed application packet to USCIS within 30 days of the Form I-20 issuance date; failure to do so will result in denial of the application

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