Applying for Optional Practical Training



Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an opportunity to gain work experience that complements the academic program. F-1 students are entitled to one year (12 months) of OPT for each higher degree. This means that if you obtain a Bachelor’s degree and utilize twelve months of OPT for that degree, you may apply for and receive another twelve months of OPT at the Graduate level.

 Optional Practical Training for F-1 students falls into three categories:

  • During annual vacation if the student is eligible and intends to register for the next term or session;
  • While school is in session provided that OPT does not exceed 20 hours per week; OR
  •  Full-time after the completion of a degree.  This is the most common form of OPT.

To be eligible for Optional Practical Training, you must have completed one academic year in full-time status. You may apply no sooner than 120 days before beginning employment and NO LATER THAN THE DATE OF COMPLETION OF YOUR DEGREE. The date of completion of studies is the LAST DAY OF CLASSES, not the graduation ceremony.

A TIMELY application, in the case of OPT, is having your application filed (physically received by USCIS) by the date of completion of the degree, not during the 60 day grace period.

Checklist of Items Needed for the OPT Application

  • Your current I-20 with UNEXPIRED completion date
  • All prior I-20s
  • Your UNEXPIRED passport, I-94 (front and back) and F-1 visa stamp.
  • 2 recent photos (Passport Style) – Lightly print your name on the back of each photo with a pencil.
  • Any prior EADs or denial notices from prior applications
  • Form I-765 - On form I-765, students are encouraged to use the Office for International Student Services address. Responses from USCIS will not be forwarded if you change addresses during the period the application is pending.   The eligibility category for question 16 is (c) (3) (i).
  • Check made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security" for $340.00
  • All checklist items should be brought to the Office for International Student Services.  The International Student Advisor will then issue an I-20 with the OPT recommendation on Page 3.  Students should be prepared to choose a start date for practical training.

** We will make photocopies of all application materials and help you complete Forms I-765.

Within 7-10 days, you should receive a receipt notice with a receipt number and date that your application was received.  Once this notice is received, you may check your application status online. 

OPT approval can take up to 90 days to process.   Please plan appropriately. 

NOTE:  When your application for OPT is approved, you will  receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card).   Please provide the International Student Services office with a copy of the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card.

It is also important to remember that once OPT is awarded, even if you change your immigration status, go back to school, etc., it cannot be cancelled or saved.

Important Facts for Students on OPT


You are in F-1 non-immigrant status until the expiration date on your EAD card (Employment Authorization Document). You have a 60 day grace period after that date to extend your status, change your status, or depart the U.S.

While on OPT you are responsible for informing the International Student Advisor of the following changes:

  • A change of address – you must notify the International Student Advisor of a chance of address within 10 days of moving
  •  The name and address of your employer
  • The intent to begin a new program. While you are on OPT, Hiram College maintains your SEVIS record. If you decide to enter graduate school, you must contact the International Student Advisor to transfer your SEVIS record to the new school.
  • A change in immigration status (i.e. H-1B, Permanent Residence.  For verification, please fax a copy of the approval notice.

Notification of information and changes may be completed through the following methods:

                EMAIL: HaleTM@hiram.edu

                PHONE: 330-569-5388

                FAX: 330-569-5183

                MAIL:      Hiram College ,  International Student Services
                                  PO Box 67
                                   Hiram , OH 44234

There are special conditions for travel outside the U.S. while you are on OPT. Travel while your  OPT application is pending is very risky, unless you are returning before the completion of your degree program.  Under certain conditions, you may travel once you receive your EAD card. Generally readmission is granted only for those who are returning to the US to "resume employment".  Therefore, you will need the following in order to re-enter the U.S. :

  1. Unexpired passport
  2. Unexpired F-1 visa
  3. Form I-20 signed on page 3 for travel (signature must be within the past 6 months)
  4. Your EAD card
  5. A letter from your employer stating that you are currently employed

* If your visa has expired, you will need to present all the documents above (except #2 and include salary in #5) to the US Consulate/Embassy to obtain a new visa stamp. Please consult with the International Student Advisor prior to traveling in such circumstances. Obtaining a new visa at this stage may be difficult. 

Additional Information