Optional Practical Training

The purpose of these videos are to provide the basic information related to eligbilty for OPT, the process of applying and the responsibilities of the student.

Read through the FAQs for more information. The OPT application form can be found on this page. Submit your OPT and STEM OPT updates to ISSS.

Please Note: Do not submit the I-765 or pay the filing fee until you have a new I-20 with the OPT recommendation from ISSS. Your application will be denied if you submit too early.
OPT is adjudicated by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) not by ISSS. There is no guarantee of approval of the OPT application. The OPT application process and maintenance of status while on OPT is the responsibility of the F-1 student. ISSS provides guidance about OPT but is not responsible
for delays or denials by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services).

24 month STEM OPT Extension