File the USCIS Online I-765 for OPT
F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) can now file their form I-765 online if filling under the pre-completion, post-completion and the STEM extension categories. For the full news release, please visit the USCIS website. Only online applications will be accepted. Refer to the Frequently Asked Questions to help you while you are on approved OPT.
*********************PLEASE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION BELOW**********************
Note that you should proceed with the online application process very carefully. The system allows you to submit your application without all required evidence, which can lead to requests for evidence and additional difficulties. This means you must be very careful to ensure that everything is included before submitting the online application. The step by step instructions below are not intended to be legal advice. They are general instructions for how you might proceed when completing the online I-765 application.
Did you miss the OPT Q&A Workshops? View the recording here.
DO NOT SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION ONLINE UNTIL AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED STEPS 1-4
All students who are eligible to apply for OPT will be required to complete the online training before being issued an OPT I-20.
Complete the following steps in order
Step 1. Complete the Online OPT training and Completion Certificate.
Step 2. Complete the OPT Request form and Create a USCIS account (see instructions below)
- Complete the OPT Request form
- Part 1 should be completed by you. Print, sign and attach the form to an email to your academic advisor/graduate program director to complete Part 2.
- Create a USCIS account and fill in the OPT application (I-765 Form)
- Follow the Application Instructions
- To complete the online I-765, you must have these documents
- In the application summary section of your USCIS application, download the I-765 draft called "View Draft Snapshot" from your USCIS account
Step 3. Upload both the OPT Request and the draft I-765 on the OPT I-20 Request Form to request the OPT I-20.
Step 4. Receive your OPT I-20 showing OPT recommendation
- Your DSO will review your OPT Request and Draft I-765 prior to creating your OPT I-20. You will receive your OPT I-20 by email in 2-4 business days. You should print the I-20, sign ( black wet ink signature, no electronic signatures allowed) and save electronic copies of page 1 and 2 to upload to your USCIS OPT application.
You MUST receive approval and a signed OPT I-20 showing the OPT recommendation from your DSO BEFORE submitting your online OPT application.
Step 5. Return to your USCIS account, log in to upload your OPT I-20 and submit the application.
Be sure to save all the required evidence documentation and the draft form I-765 for your records. You will not be able to access your information on the USCIS online application after 30 days.
