OPT Approved Without Request: Legitimate Benefit or Risky Trap?

If you’re an F-1 international student in the United States 🇺🇸 and thinking about Optional Practical Training (OPT), it’s important to know exactly how the process works and what is required to qualify. There’s been some confusion and even rumors about “OPT Approved Without Request,” but as of August 2025, this is not a real or recognized process. Let’s break down the real eligibility rules, what you must do, what can disqualify you, and what steps you can take if you’re not eligible right now.

Do You Qualify for OPT?

To qualify for OPT, you must meet all the following requirements:

• You must be in valid F-1 status. This means you’re following all the rules for your student visa, including full-time study and not working without permission.
• You must have completed at least one full academic year at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school in the United States 🇺🇸.
• You must not have used more than 12 months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the same degree level. If you have, you are not eligible for OPT.
• You must apply for OPT at the right time. You can apply up to 90 days before your program end date, but no later than 60 days after your program ends. Also, you must file your application within 30 days of your Designated School Official (DSO) recommending OPT and issuing your OPT I-20.
• You must receive a recommendation from your DSO. Your DSO is the person at your school who helps with immigration matters. They must enter your OPT request into the SEVIS system and give you a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation.
• You must submit Form I-765 to USCIS. This is the official application for employment authorization. You can find the form and instructions on the USCIS Form I-765 page.

What Is “OPT Approved Without Request”?

There is no such thing as “OPT Approved Without Request.” OPT is never granted automatically or without you taking action. If you receive an approval notice or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for OPT without applying, this is a red flag. It could be a clerical mistake, identity theft, or even a scam. You should never use an EAD or start working unless you have personally applied for OPT and received approval through the proper process.

Step-by-Step OPT Application Process

Here’s how the real OPT process works:

1. Request OPT from your DSO:
   • Contact your school’s international student office and ask for OPT.
   • Your DSO will check your eligibility and, if you qualify, will enter your request into SEVIS and give you a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation.
2. File Form I-765 with USCIS:
   • Complete Form I-765 and gather the required documents (such as your new I-20, passport copy, visa, and photos).
   • Submit your application to USCIS, either online or by mail, within the allowed time window.
3. Wait for USCIS to process your application:
   • USCIS will review your application.
   • If they need more information, they may send you a Request for Evidence (RFE).
   • You must respond to any RFE by the deadline, or your application could be denied.
4. Receive your EAD card:
   • If approved, you’ll get an approval notice and then your EAD card in the mail.
   • You cannot start working until you have the EAD card in hand.

Examples of Who Qualifies and Who Does Not

• Example 1:
  Maria is an F-1 student who has completed her bachelor’s degree at a SEVP-certified university. She has not used any full-time CPT. She asks her DSO for an OPT recommendation, files Form I-765 within 30 days, and gets her EAD card before starting work. She qualifies for OPT.

• Example 2:
  John is an F-1 student who used 12 months of full-time CPT during his degree. He tries to apply for OPT, but his DSO tells him he is not eligible because he has already used the maximum allowed CPT. He does not qualify for OPT.

• Example 3:
  Priya finishes her degree but forgets to apply for OPT until 70 days after her program ends. She tries to file Form I-765, but the deadline has passed. She does not qualify for OPT.

Disqualifying Factors

You will not qualify for OPT if:

• You are not in valid F-1 status.
• You have used more than 12 months of full-time CPT at your current degree level.
• You miss the application deadlines (more than 60 days after program end date or more than 30 days after OPT I-20 is issued).
• You do not get a recommendation from your DSO.
• You do not submit Form I-765 to USCIS.

What If You Receive OPT Approval Without Requesting It?

If you ever receive an OPT approval notice or EAD card without applying, do not use it. Instead:

• Contact your DSO immediately and show them the notice or card.
• Contact USCIS to report the issue and ask for guidance.
• Do not start working using the EAD, as this could be seen as unauthorized employment and could hurt your immigration status.
• Be alert for scams. Never pay anyone or give out personal information to someone claiming they can get you OPT approval without the official process.

Alternative Options If You Are Not Eligible for OPT

If you find out you do not qualify for OPT, there are a few other paths you might consider:

• STEM OPT Extension: If your degree is in a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) field, and you have completed regular OPT, you may be able to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. This also requires a new application and employer participation.
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): If you are still a student and your school offers CPT, you may be able to work in a job related to your field of study. CPT has its own rules and limits.
• Other Visa Options: You might look into other work visas, such as the H-1B, if you have a job offer from a U.S. employer. Each visa has its own requirements and process.
• Further Study: Some students choose to start a new degree program, which can allow them to stay in F-1 status and possibly become eligible for OPT again at a higher degree level.

How to Improve Your Chances of OPT Approval

• Stay in close contact with your DSO. They are your main resource for immigration questions and can help you avoid mistakes.
• Apply as early as allowed. The earlier you apply within the window, the better your chances of getting your EAD card on time.
• Double-check all documents. Make sure your Form I-765 and supporting documents are complete and accurate.
• Respond quickly to any USCIS requests. If you get an RFE, answer it as soon as possible with all the requested information.
• Keep copies of everything. Save copies of your application, I-20, and any USCIS notices.

What Official Resources Can Help You?

• The USCIS Form I-765 page has the official form, instructions, and updates about processing times.
• The SEVP and ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program page explains F-1 rules and OPT basics.
• Your school’s international student office is your best source for school-specific OPT rules and help.
• The USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) can answer questions about your case status.

Key Takeaways

• OPT Approved Without Request is not a real process. You must always apply for OPT yourself, with help from your DSO, and submit Form I-765 to USCIS.
• Never use an EAD card or approval notice you did not request. This could be a mistake or scam and could hurt your immigration status.
• Follow all deadlines and requirements. Missing a step or deadline can make you ineligible for OPT.
• If you’re not eligible, ask your DSO about other options like CPT, STEM OPT, or other visas.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, following the official process is the only safe way to get OPT approval and protect your future in the United States 🇺🇸. Always use trusted sources and your school’s international office for guidance. If you have any doubts or receive unexpected immigration documents, check with your DSO and USCIS right away. This careful approach will help you avoid problems and make the most of your time as an international student.