Embedded Files
Are you interested in working off-campus in your major while continuing your degree program?
Pre-completion OPT may help you do that!
Am I Eligible?
Am I Eligible?
I am in good academic standing and good immigration standing.
I have been in F-1 status for at least one academic year (or will be by the time the application is adjudicated).
I will not fulfill all the requirements for my degree before the requested pre-completion OPT period ends (discuss this with the immigration advisor in the OISVS)
I am planning to work in a field “directly related to my major area of study.”
I am inside the U.S.
How will this impact after-graduation OPT?
How will this impact after-graduation OPT?
Pre-completion OPT is deducted from the total 12-months of possible OPT for each (higher) education level. So if you apply for 4 months of pre-completion OPT, you'd be able to request 8 months for your post-completion OPT benefit.
Note that once the pre-completion OPT is approved, it is deducted, whether you work or not.
Pre-completion OPT that is part-time (20 hours or less) is deducted at half the rate. For example, if you request part-time Pre-completion OPT for 4 months, only 2 months should be deducted, leaving 10 months for post-completion OPT.
Application Details:
Application Details:
When should I file? The Earliest Filing Date: 90 days BEFORE you would like to start. Also, applications must be filed within 30 days of the issuance of your OPT recommendation I-20* Please note that applications may take as long as 4.5 months for adjudication.
Current pricing as of August 2024:
Online applications: $470 (ACH debit or U.S. credit cards accepted)
Paper applications: $650 (only ACH debit or U.S. credit card payments accepted: no checks or money orders)
Premium Processing: an additional $1,650
What work evidence do I receive?
You receive a photo-ID called an "Employment Authorization Document" or EAD. It is a "List A" document to verify your employment eligibility.
The Application Process:
The Application Process:
Phase 1: Submit your documents to the OISVS and receive the DSO recommendation on a new I-20;
Prepare the following documents to upload:
Valid passport ID page
CPT I-20s (p. 1-2)
Submit the Pre-Completion OPT Agreement form available HERE, uploading your documents
3. Complete the verification form when it comes to your inbox.
4. Complete the I-20 signature as requested. Complete Phase 2 within 30 days of the OISVS recommendation.
5. Prepare your digital, passport-style photo.
Photos may be in JPG, JPEG or PNG files, with a 6MB max file size.
Be sure to put it in the Photo Tool to ensure compatibility.
Phase 2: Set up your My.USCIS account and complete the application
Set up your My.USCIS account (HERE)
Choose “File a form online” and start the Pre-completion OPT application and answer the questions.
Consider the address you list very carefully to avoid issues receiving the work authorization document (EAD). Talk to the immigration advisor in the OISVS for more details.
Recommended (optional): Send a draft to the DSO/PDSO
Phase 3: Review, pay and submit
After OISVS review, make any changes and review all information carefully. Be sure to upload your signed OPT I-20.
Ensure you are applying within the regulatory time frame.
Set up your payment with a bank draft or U.S.-based credit card. The money is immediately debited from your account.
Submitting payment submits your application. No changes can be made after this.
After Submitting
After Submitting
Keep the electronic receipt you receive.
Check your My.USCIS account frequently for updates and requests for evidence.
Change your address if necessary. See the USCIS Tools and Resources website.
Talk to us if you have any questions!
Talk to us if you have any questions!
Page updated
Report abuse