OPT Timeline Calculator

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study. Students can apply for OPT if they:

• Have been in lawful F-1 status for at least one academic year
• Are enrolled in a degree program at an accredited institution
• Have not used OPT at the same education level previously
• Apply before their authorized stay expires

OPT provides 12 months of work authorization after program completion, with an additional 24-month extension available for STEM graduates.

The OPT application timeline is critical for F-1 students:

• Earliest application: 90 days before program end date
• Latest application: 60 days after program end date
• USCIS filing deadline: Within 30 days of DSO recommendation
• Processing time: 90-150 days typically

Plan ahead as late applications may result in work authorization gaps or denials.

STEM OPT is a 24-month extension of regular OPT for students who graduate with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics fields. Key details:

• Duration: 24 additional months (36 months total with regular OPT)
• Application window: Up to 90 days before current OPT expires
• Requirements: Employer must be E-Verify enrolled
• Minimum hours: 20 hours per week employment
• Reporting: Every 6 months to DSO

STEM fields are defined by the Department of Homeland Security and include qualifying CIP codes.

Unemployment limits during OPT periods:

• Regular OPT: Maximum 90 days of unemployment
• STEM OPT: Additional 60 days (150 days total)
• Counting starts: From OPT start date on EAD card
• Consequences: Exceeding limits terminates SEVIS record

Unpaid internships, volunteer work, and consulting may count as employment if properly documented and related to your field of study.

Travel during pending OPT requires careful planning:

• Before graduation: Can travel with valid F-1 visa and I-20
• After graduation: Generally not recommended while application is pending
• During grace period: Re-entry may be difficult without approved EAD
• Emergency travel: Consult with DSO for guidance

Always consult your Designated School Official (DSO) before making travel plans during OPT application periods.

Required documents for OPT application:

• Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
• Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record
• I-20 with OPT recommendation: From your DSO
• Copy of diploma or transcript: Proof of program completion
• Passport bio page: Copy of passport information page
• Passport photos: Two identical USCIS-style photos
• Filing fee: Currently $410 for I-765 application

Keep copies of all documents and use certified mail or delivery confirmation when mailing to USCIS.

If your OPT application is denied:

• Immediate action: Consult with your DSO immediately
• Appeal options: May file motion to reopen or reconsider
• Status implications: May need to leave the US or change status
• Reapplication: May be possible if within eligible timeframes

Common denial reasons include late filing, incomplete documentation, or SEVIS record issues. Prevention through careful preparation is key.

OPT usage limits and eligibility:

• Same education level: Only one period of post-completion OPT per degree level
• Higher education level: Eligible for new OPT period at higher degree level
• STEM OPT limit: Can use STEM extension twice in lifetime if qualifying
• Pre-completion OPT: Separate from post-completion OPT allowance

For example, you can use OPT after Bachelor's degree and again after Master's degree, but not twice at the same level.