General Requirements and Conditions

F-1 students who have completed one full academic year (two semesters) of full-time study and who are maintaining their F-1 status are eligible to apply for OPT. OPT authorization allows off-campus work that is directly related to a student鈥檚 major area of study.  A job offer is not needed to apply for OPT, and OPT employment can be paid or unpaid as long as any unpaid work does not violate any labor laws. All F-1 students are eligible for a total of 12 months of standard/regular OPT during/after each degree level.

This page has information on the following:

Timing and Restrictions for OPT: Post versus Pre-Completion

Pre-Completion OPT Timing and Limits:

  • Pre-completion OPT has start and end dates before the SEVIS program end date on the I-20
  • Pre-completion OPT may not exceed 20 hours a week during the semester 
  • Pre-completion OPT may be full-time during winter break or summer vacation (unless the student is graduating in August) 
  • May not begin before receipt of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or before the start date listed on the EAD
  • Pre-completion OPT ends early if the academic program finishes early

Post-Completion OPT Timing and Limits:

  • Post-completion OPT must generally have a start date in the 60 day period after the SEVIS program end date on the I-20 which is generally the same date as the MU graduation date. (Graduate students may request an OPT start date that is before their MU graduation date if they have completed all course work other than thesis/dissertation work. See the next section on "Coursework Completion" OPT for details.)
  • "Coursework Completion" post-completion OPT allows graduate students with only thesis credits/dissertation work remaining to apply for OPT with a start date earlier than their MU graduation date. This action is usually taken to engage in full-time OPT during the semester before graduation and the start date is chosen with regards to the OPT application timeline (see below), the average USCIS processing time (about 3 moths),and the start date of a concrete job offer. 
  • Students applying for OPT under this "coursework completion" option should note that they will no longer be able to extend their SEVIS program end date if they should fail to complete any academic program requirements as their F-1 status will be based on their authorized OPT period and related F-1 regulations.
  • Post-completion OPT may not begin before receipt of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or before the start date listed on the EAD.
  • Post-completion OPT is automatically terminated if you transfer to another school or begin studies at another educational level at Marquette
  • Students who applied for post-completion OPT (excluding those who applied for "coursework completion" OPT) and who fail to complete their program by the SEVIS program end date should contact OIE immediately. If the OPT application hasn't been approved by USCIS, they student may withdraw the application by notifying the Service Center (while the DSO withdraws the recommendation in SEVIS). If the OPT application has been approved, the student may only work part-time during the semester until they complete all degree requirements. 

Application Deadlines and Processing Time for OPT 

OPT applications must reach U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) according to the following timelines:

Post-completion OPT:

  • up to 90 days before, and no later than 60 days after, the program completion date on the I-20;
  • not before the OPT recommendation is entered in SEVIS and an updated I-20 is issued by an MU DSO; 
  • no later than 30 days after the MU DSO enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS

Pre-completion OPT:

  • up to 90 days before the requested employment start date;
  • not before the OPT recommendation is entered in SEVIS and an updated I-20 is issued by an MU DSO;
  • no later than 30 days after the MU DSO enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS

USCIS processing time for OPT applications typically takes between 8 and 12 weeks, but can vary significantly. See for processing time estimates.

Students needing OPT authorization faster than the standard processing period can apply for premium processing.  See  for details. 

If the status of your OPT application is approved and you haven鈥檛 received the card in about a week, or if the status is still pending after the processing time posted by USCIS at you can contact USCIS either via phone at 1-800-375-5283 or you can file an online case inquiry or service request at .  Be sure to have your receipt notice/number ready when taking one of these actions.

Application process for OPT

OPT applications may be submitted online or via the traditional paper/courier method. The detailed instructions starting with Step 1 below focus on the paper filing method, but the substance of the directions also applies to online filing as well with small changes to how the information is entered and submitted and to the supporting documents required.

Students filing online should carefully follow the detailed instructions found at and should be careful not to submit their online application/Form I-765 before meeting with their MU DSO to have their OPT recommendation entered in SEVIS and to receive their updated I-20 to use with the application process. 

Before submitting your OPT application, regardless of filing method, be sure you understand the information in the sections above on general OPT requirements and conditions, on when students can engage in OPT, and the application timeline. You are also advised to read these excerpts from the excerpts from the government regulations related to OPT. 

 

Step 1:

Complete the OPT Request Form for OPT.

Remember to review the "Timing and Restriction" information above when filing out this form.

Step 2:

Complete (click link and scroll down to find form)  

Tips for completing Form I-765:

    1. Use black ink or the on-line fillable form.  Print the form before signing. 

    2. Print and submit the entire form (7 pages) even if you don鈥檛 enter information on pages 5-7.

    3. Part 2 - #21a: Your Form I-94 number is the 11-digit number on your printed

    4. Part 2 - #26:  Your SEVIS number is indicated on your Form I-20 as 鈥淪EVIS ID鈥�

    5. Part 2 - #27:  Refer to 鈥淔oreign Student Categories鈥� in the , page 3.

    6. Part 3 - #7a:  Be sure to sign your name in black ink within the space provided.

    7. Part 6: Additional Information on previous SEVIS numbers and previous CPT or OPT 

      For previously authorized CPT 鈥� enter this information in Part 6:

      #1.a.b.c.: Enter your name

      #3a: Page number: 3

      #3b: Part number: 2

      #3c: Item number: 27

      #3d: Enter this sentence: CPT was authorized for (month/day/year) until (month/day/year) while pursuing my (degree level) degree.  This CPT was (full-time/part-time)

      Example:  CPT was authorized for 6/1/2018 鈥� 8/1/2018 while pursuing my Master鈥檚 degree.  This CPT was full-time.

      For previously authorized OPT 鈥� enter this information in Part 6:

      #1.a.b.c.: Enter your name

      #3a: Page number: 2

      #3b: Part number: 2

      #3c: Item number: 12

      #3d: Enter this sentence: OPT was authorized for (month/day/year) until (month/day/year) while pursuing my (degree level) degree.  This OPT was (full-time/part-time).

      Example:  OPT was authorized for 1/15/2018 鈥� 5/12/2018 while pursuing my Bachelor鈥檚 degree.  This OPT was part-time.

      For previously used SEVIS numbers 鈥� enter this information in Part 6:

      #1.a.b.c.: Enter your name

      #3a: Page number: 3

      #3b: Part number: 2

      #3c: Item number: 26

      #3d: Enter this sentence:  Previous SEVIS number Nxxxxx was in used 20XX

      Example:  SEVIS number N1010101010 was used in 2015.

Step 3:

Gather the following documents which are required for your application:

  • OPT Request Form
  • Completed I-765 Form
  • 2 passport size photos (see I-765 instructions for details). Write your name and I-94 number in pencil or felt pen on the back of each photo.
  • a copy of your passport information page (including name, date of birth, issue and expiration date)
  • a copy of your I-94 card (front and back) or printed I-94 verification
  • copies of all previous I-20 forms documenting CPT or OPT authorization
  • a copy of any previously issued EAD cards (front and back)
  • Filing Fee: $410 before April 1, 2024.  Starting April 1, 2024: $470 for online filing / $520 for paper filing. (Always check the to ensure you a paying the correct fee and using the latest form version.) If applying via the traditional paper option, you can pay via personal check or money order made out to the 鈥淒epartment of Homeland Security."  If applying online, you can pay via credit card, debit card, or withdrawal from a checking or savings account.)

Step 4:

Make an appointment to meet with your OIE advisor to review the OPT Request Form and the I-765.  Be sure to send a completed copy of these forms to michael.groen@marquette.edu ahead of the meeting.

Step 5:

At the appointment, the OIE advisor will check the I-765 and the OPT Request Form, make needed entries in SEVIS, and issue you a Form I-20 for your OPT application.

Step 6:

Follow the mailing instructions below and mail your OPT application along with the following items to the USCIS center.

  • a copy of your new I-20 form with OPT endorsement and your signature on page one.
  • completed I-765 Form
  • 2 passport size photos (see page 8 of I-765 instruction for details). Write your name and I-94 number in pencil on the back of each photo.
  • a copy of your passport information page (including name, date of birth, issue and expiration date)
  • a copy of your I-94 card or printed I-94 verification
  • copies of all previous I-20 forms documenting CPT or OPT authorization
  • copies of any previously issued EAD cards (front and back)
  • Filing Fee: $410 before April 1, 2024.  Starting April 1, 2024: $470 for online filing / $520 for paper filing.. (Always check the to ensure you a paying the correct fee and using the latest version of the form.) Personal checks or money orders should be made out to the 鈥淒epartment of Homeland Security."  To pay by credit card you must and place the signed, completed form on the top of your application when filing.

Mail your application documents to the USCIS Lockbox. OIE recommends second or third day express mail from FedEx, DHL, or UPS so you have tracking number to prove your application was delivered. Be sure to keep copies of all application materials for your own records.

For courier/express mail (OIE recommended delivery method):

USCIS
Attn: I-765 C03
131 South Dearborn - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517 

For US postal service:

USCIS

Attn: I-765 C03
P.O. Box 805373
Chicago, IL 60680

 

Waiting for authorization/Checking your application's progress

向日葵视频 10 to 14 days after you submit your application for OPT to USCIS, you should receive a receipt notice by postal mail. This notice will include a Receipt Number which you can use to check the status of your application on . Look for 鈥淐ase Status鈥� on the website home page.  Checking the status of your application on is the best way to know about your application's status.

If your OPT application and Form I-765 has been pending more than 75 days (from the receipt date on your Receipt Notice), you may contact the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that an Approaching Regulatory Time frame "service request" be created. The NCSC will route the service request to the appropriate office for review.

 Once you are approved for OPT by USCIS, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) by postal mail. The EAD card contains the authorization number, the dates of approved employment authorization, the bearer鈥檚 name, photo and signature. The EAD card is proof of employment authorization during the dates listed on the card. Employment authorization begins on the date requested or the date the employment authorization is adjudicated, whichever is later. You may not begin employment prior to the approved starting date. Please provide OIE with a copy of your EAD card once you receive it.

 

Important Information for Students with Approved or Pending OPT

 

SEVIS Reporting Requirements for Pre-Completion OPT

In addition to all other SEVIS reporting requirements for enrolled students, students with approved pre-completion OPT must report employer information anytime they start or stop work.  This information should be reported using OIE's OPT Verification Form and must be reported no later than 10 days from the change.

 

SEVIS Reporting Requirements During Post-Completion OPT

Your F-1 status continues during OPT, so you must report changes to the information below within 10 days the change. Except as noted, changes can be reported either via OIE's OPT Verification Form or via your SEVIS Portal. You only need to report via one of these methods, not both. (SEVP@ice.dhs.gov emails details on creating the Portal when your OPT is approved.)  

  • Residence address in the United States
  • Legal name
  • Telephone number
  • E-mail address
  • United States legal status (i.e. inform us if you change your status to H1-B, J-1, H-4, etc.)
  • Information about your employer, including employer name, address, and starting date
    • The form asks you to "explain how your job is related to your major field of study." Be sure your answer lists both your primary job duties as well as your degree/major name and also includes a brief explanation of how the duties are directly related to your degree/major.
  • Information about any disruption of your employment such as job termination or change of employers
  • Departure from U.S. When Ending OPT Early  

    This change should be reported to an MU DSO via email including this statement - 鈥淚 have departed the U.S. on date X and do not intend to return using my MU I-20 and related OPT authorization.鈥�  - so your SEVIS record can be manually completed by an MU DSO.

General OPT Requirements to Remember:

  • OPT employment may not begin prior to your approved starting date.
  • OPT employment must be in a job that is related to your major field of study.
  • OPT employment may be paid or unpaid. Volunteer or internship positions which are unpaid, yet related to your field of study, can be submitted as evidence of your OPT activity. You may work as a volunteer or unpaid intern when this activity does not violate any labor laws. We suggest that you obtain documentation from the organization/company which confirms the dates of your volunteer activity.
  • Employment may be full-time or part-time. If you have more than one job at the same time, please provide employer information about each job.

 

Unemployment Limits During Post-Completion OPT

During post-completion OPT your F鈥�1 status depends on employment and you may not accrue an aggregate of more than 90 days of unemployment during the initial 12 months of your post-completion OPT. You must work at least 20 hours per week in a qualifying position to be considered employed. The 20 hours can include hours from more than one position and the positions can be paid or unpaid as long as they do not violate U.S. labor law.

Employment outside the U.S. during approved OPT generally counts as unemployment 
unless you are either employed during a period of leave authorized by an employer or are traveling as part of your employment.

Exceeding 90 days of unemployment during standard OPT is a violation of your F-1 status and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may terminate your F-1 status and/or deny future immigration benefits if you exceeded this limit. Days of unemployment are tracked in your SEVIS record based on the OPT employment data you are required to report.

To avoid violating your status by exceeding 90 days of unemployment during standard OPT, you should take one of the actions below before exceeding this limit: 

  • Depart the U.S.
  • Transfer to another SEVP certified school
  • Change education levels
  • Take action to otherwise maintain status in the U.S.

 

Travel Outside the U.S. With Pending or Approved Post-Completion OPT

Reentry to the U.S. after program completion with approved post-completion OPT is generally possible if you have the correct documents for your situation as described below. (Students considering working outside the U.S. during OPT should see the related information in the Unemployment section above.)

  • Your most recent I-20 with a DSO signature no older than 6 months
  • a valid F-1 visa in your passport (If your visa is expired you may apply for new F-1 visa)
  • a valid passport
  • your EAD card

  • Employment letters documenting current or future employment.  These letters are not technically required fo reentry, but are recommended because readmission is always at the discretion of the CBP officer inspecting you for reentry and US-ICE/CBP seems to have updated its online guidance to more strongly suggest that a letter from a current or future employer should be part of the documents that students with OPT should show to reenter the U.S.  See the following website for details:

Reentry after applying for OPT but before I-20 program end date is the same as for any enrolled F-1 student. See the Travel Outside the U.S. section of this website for details.

Reentry after program completion while OPT is pending, while possible, is not generally recommended unless there is a compelling reason because it comes with increased risks that include additional questions/ inspection at customs upon reentry, the chance that your EAD card may be issued while you are outside the U.S. and you won't have it to show on reentry, and the chance that you may receive a Request for Evidence related to your application while you are away and be unable to respond. If you must travel in these circumstances, to reenter the U.S. you will use the same documents listed under the "OPT approved" section above replacing the EAD card with your OPT application receipt notice.

Missing travel documents?

If you need a travel signature on your I-20 to renter the U.S., or if you lost your I-20 while traveling, contact OIE at least two weeks prior to your return date and we can email you an updated I-20. 

In limited cases, US CBP may allow entry to students who can otherwise be denied entry (e.g. without their I-20, without a valid travel signature, have not paid the I-901 fee, with certain SEVIS status problems). The conditions of any I-515 entry must be resolved by the student within the 30 days.

If you lost your passport, you should contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.

If you lost your F-1 visa, you must make an appointment with a U.S. embassy or consulate to get a replacement visa before reentering the U.S.

 

At the End of Your Post-Completion OPT

If you complete your OPT period in valid F-1 status (i.e. no excess unemployment, all employment properly reported, etc.) you you may remain in the U.S. for an additional 60 days. During this 鈥済race period鈥� you may transfer to another academic program, change to another visa status, apply for "Cap Gap" relief if transitioning to H-1B, or prepare to depart from the U.S. You may not be employed during this period. See below for additional information about each of these options.

Transfer to Another School / Begin New Program at MU:

During authorized OPT students may transfer to a new school or begin a new program at 向日葵视频if the new program will being no more than 5 months after the transfer release date or the last date of authorized OPT whichever is earlier. OPT authorization will automatically end on the transfer release date or on the start date of the new MU program (or the date you reenter the U.S. using the I-20 for the new MU program if earlier than the program start date). The request for a SEVIS transfer or for an I-20 to begin a new program at MU must be received by OIE before the end of the 60 day grace period.

Change of Status During OPT: 

If you change non-immigrant status in the U.S. during your OPT, your OPT will end on the date of the USCIS action notice or your entry to the U.S. in the new status. Unused OPT time will be lost.

Abandoning OPT:

If you decide to leave the United States before the authorized OPT ending date on your EAD and do not plan to return to the U.S., you must report this to an MU DSO via an email including this statement - 鈥淚 have departed the U.S. on date X and do not intend to return using my MU I-20 and related OPT authorization.鈥�  - so your SEVIS record can be manually completed by an MU DSO.

 

STEM OPT Extension

Students who have completed a degree in specific fields related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) may be eligible to apply for an additional 24 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a position directly related to their qualifying STEM degree. The list of eligible STEM fields is available on the .

Students are limited to one STEM extension per level of study, but may be eligible for a second STEM extension after completing an additional STEM degree at a higher level. Not all STEM fields are designated for this extension. 

Before applying for STEM OPT, be sure you have read and understand all the information on this website about STEM OPT eligibility, the application process and timing, and the F-1 regulatory obligations of students on STEM OPT.   

Students applying for STEM OPT should also read these excerpts from the government regulations on the 24-month (STEM) extension of post-completion OPT as well as the .

What are the eligibility requirements for STEM OPT?

In addition to the general requirements above, to be eligible to apply for STEM OPT students must:

  • Be in a current period of authorized post-completion OPT  
  • Have earned - or, in the case described below, have completed all degree requirements except thesis or equivalent for - a STEM qualifying bachelor's, master's,or doctoral degree from an accredited, SEVP-certified school. 
    • STEM OPT can be based on the completion of all degree requirements except thesis or equivalent only when the incomplete STEM qualifying degree is the basis of the currently approved period of regular post-completion OPT.  

    • STEM OPT can based on a degree earned prior to the 向日葵视频degree that is the basis of the currently approved regular post-completion OPT only if the prior degree: 

      • Has been completed and conferred 
      • Was earned within 10 years of applying for the STEM OPT extension
      • Has not been the basis for a prior STEM OPT application
  • Have a properly completed Form I-983 from an employer that must:
    • Be registered in the E-Verify Program
    • Work with the student to complete the Form I-983 Training Plan and sign the I-983 to certify it is true and correct
    • Agree to review the student's annual self-evaluation and report the termination or departure of an OPT employee to the DSO at the student鈥檚 school if the termination is prior to the end of the OPT period.
    • Note:  The Office of Human Resources has informed OIE that 向日葵视频 does not participate in the E-Verify program. Therefore, 向日葵视频is not an eligible employer for a STEM-OPT Extension.
  • Be employed by the STEM employer for at least 20 hours per week

Please note: Unpaid positions, self-employment, and working for a staffing company or temporary agency generally do not qualify as employment for a STEM extension.

 

What is the timeline to apply for STEM OPT authorization?

The STEM OPT application must be properly filed no more than 90 days before the end of your standard post-completion OPT authorization, within 30 days of the date the STEM recommendation is entered in SEVIS by your MU designated school official, and no later than your last day of standard OPT

Note: If you timely filed a STEM extension with USCIS, you may continue to work for up to 180 days beyond the expiration on your post-completion OPT EAD.  The employment must be with a STEM qualifying employer and follow the usual STEM extension regulations. 

 

Application process for STEM OPT

Step 1:

Complete the STEM OPT Extension Request Form

The form asks you to "explain how your job is related to your major field of study." Be sure your answer lists both your primary job duties as well as your degree/major name and also includes a brief explanation of how the duties are directly related to your degree/major. 

Step 2:

Submit a . 

This form must be completed with the help of your employer and a 向日葵视频DSO must determine that it is complete, signed, and addresses all program requirements.  If necessary, here is   

Step 3:

Complete (click link and scroll down to find form) 

  • Tips for completing Form I-765:

    • Use black ink or the on-line fillable form.  Print the form before signing. 

    • Print and submit the entire form (7 pages) even if you don鈥檛 enter information on pages 5-7.

    • Part 2 - #21a:  Your Form I-94 number is the 11-digit number on your printed

    •  Part 2 - #26:  Your SEVIS number is indicated on your Form I-20 as 鈥淪EVIS ID鈥� 

    • Part 2 - #27:  Refer to 鈥淔oreign Student Categories鈥� in the , page 3.  The STEM OPT category is  (c) (3) (C).

    • Part 2 - #28a: List your degree and major.  For example, M.S. 鈥� Chemistry or B.S. 鈥� Mechanical Engineering.

    • Part 3 - #7a:  Be sure to sign your name in black ink within the space provided.

    • Part 6 Additional Information 鈥� Use this section to explain that your 向日葵视频major is on the STEM Designation Degree Program list and to provide information on previous CPT or OPT.

      Enter your name in items 1a. 1b. and 1c.

      To show your 向日葵视频major is on the STEM list, enter this information: 

      #3a: Page number: 3

      #3b: Part number: 2

      #3c: Item number: 28a

      #3d:  Enter this sentence: (Degree level) degree with major in (name of major) is on the STEM Designated Degree Program List using CIP code (xxx).  (You can find your CIP code on your Form I-20 under Major 1 or Major 2.)

      Example:  Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Electrical Engineering is on the STEM Designated Program List using CIP code 14.1001.

      For any previously authorized CPT, enter this information in the next available section in Part 6:

      #4a: Page number: 3

      #4b: Part number: 2

      #4c: Item number: 27

      #4d: Enter this sentence: CPT was authorized for (month/day/year) until (month/day/year) while pursuing my (degree level) degree.  This CPT was (full-time/part-time)

      Example:  CPT was authorized for 6/1/2018 鈥� 8/1/2018 while pursuing my Master鈥檚 degree.  This CPT was full-time.

      For previously authorized OPT 鈥� enter this information in the next available section in part 6:

      #5a: Page number: 2

      #5b: Part number: 2

      #5c: Item number: 12

      #5d: Enter this sentence: OPT was authorized for (month/day/year) until (month/day/year) while pursuing my (degree level) degree.  This OPT was (full-time/part-time).

      Example:  OPT was authorized for 1/15/2018 鈥� 5/12/2018 while pursuing my Bachelor鈥檚 degree.  This OPT was part-time.

      For previously used SEVIS numbers 鈥� enter this information in Part 6:

      #6a: Page number: 3

      #6b: Part number: 2

      #6c: Item number: 26

      #6d: Enter this sentence:  Previous SEVIS number Nxxxxx was in used 20XX

      Example:  SEVIS number N1010101010 was used in 2015.

Step 4:

Gather the following documents which are required for your application:

  • STEM OPT Extension Request Form
  • Completed I-983 Form signed by you and your employer.  
  • Completed I-765 Form
  • 2 passport size photos (see I-765 instruction for details). Write your name and I-94 number in pencil or felt pen on the back of each photo.
  • a copy of your passport information page (including name, date of birth, issue and expiration date)
  • a copy of your I-94 card or printed I-94 verification
  • copies of all previous I-20 forms documenting CPT or OPT authorization
  • copies of any previously issued EAD cards (front and back)
  • a copy of your 向日葵视频diploma showing your earned degree
  • Filing Fee: $410 before April 1, 2024.  Starting April 1, 2024: $470 for online filing / $520 for paper filing. (Always check the to ensure you a paying the correct fee and using the latest version of the form.) Personal checks or money orders should be made out to the 鈥淒epartment of Homeland Security."  To pay by credit card you must and place the signed, completed form on the top of your application when filing.

Step 5:

Email the documents listed below to michael.groen@marquette.edu for review: 

- Your completed I-983 form

- Your STEM Extension Request Form

- Your completed I-765 form

Upon successful review of these documents, OIE will updated your SEVIS record with your STEM OPT information and issue you a Form I-20 for your STEM OPT application. You will receive an email when the updated I-20 is issued ... students living near campus will be able to pick up the updated I-20 at OIE and students not living near campus will receive the updated I-20 as an email attachment.  

Step 6:

File your STEM OPT application and required application items with USCIS.

To apply via the traditional paper-based process, follow the instructions below to submit your STEM OPT application and required application items to the USCIS center. OIE strongly recommends you use a second or third day courier services so you have a tracking number to document USCIS receipt of your application.

You can also choose to using the online I-765 filing process under the STEM OPT - (c)(3)(C) category. Students who choose to file online should note that OIE currently provides only limited advising on the details of this process.

Regardless of filing method, remember to send your application within 30 days following the issuance of the new I-20 and before the completion date of your currently authorized OPT period.

Please note that you do not send Form I-983 to USCIS with your application. It is retained by OIE.

Paper-based Filing Instructions - Items to Include and Mailing Address Information:

  • A copy of your new I-20 form with STEM OPT endorsement and your signature on page one (if you received your new I-20 via email you can print and sign a copy to send in)
  • Completed I-765 Form
  • 2 passport size photos (see page 8 of I-765 instruction for details). Write your name and I-94 number in pencil on the back of each photo.
  • 1 copy of your passport information page (including name, date of birth, issue and expiration date)
  • 1 copy of your I-94 card (front and back) or printed I-94 verification
  • copies of all previous I-20 forms documenting CPT or OPT authorization
  • 1 copy of any previously issued EAD cards (front and back)
  • Copy of your 向日葵视频diploma showing your earned degree
  • Filing Fee: $410 before April 1, 2024.  Starting April 1, 2024: $470 for online filing / $520 for paper filing. (Always check the  to ensure you a paying the correct fee and using the latest version of the form.) Personal checks or money orders should be made out to the 鈥淒epartment of Homeland Security."  To pay by credit card you must and place the signed, completed form on the top of your application when filing.

Mail your application documents to the USCIS Lockbox. Be sure to keep copies for your own records.

For US postal service:

USCIS 
P.O. Box 805373
Chicago, IL 60680

For courier (FedEx, UPS): OIE recommends sending your OPT application via courier

USCIS
Attn: I-765 C03
131 South Dearborn - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517 

 

Waiting for authorization

向日葵视频 10 to 14 days after you submit your application for STEM OPT to USCIS, you should receive a receipt notice by postal mail. (Online filers will receive the notice via email.) This notice will include a Receipt Number which you can use to check the status of your application on the USCIS website at: . Look for 鈥淐ase Status鈥� on the website home page.

Once you are approved for STEM OPT by USCIS you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). The EAD card is proof of employment authorization during the dates listed on the card. Please provide OIE with a copy of your EAD card once you receive it.

Important Information for Students on STEM OPT

 

Reporting Requirements During STEM OPT

As described below, during STEM OPT you must make two types of ongoing reporting to OIE:  Regular STEM OPT Reporting based on changes to employment and personal information and STEM OPT Validation and Self-Evaluation Reporting every 6 months, annually, or at the end of any STEM OPT position.

Regular STEM OPT Reporting:

You must report changes to any of information listed below to an MU DSO within 10 days of the change. You should report via email using the OPT Verification Form except as noted below, and the DSO will updated SEVIS. Please note that your STEM OPT employer has:

  • Residence or mailing address in the United States
  • Legal name
  • Telephone Number
  • E-mail address
  • United States legal status (i.e. inform us if you change your status to H1-B, J-1, H-4, etc.)
  • Changes to your I-983 details of a substantial nature (e.g. job title, company name, responsibilities, supervisor name, work address, etc.).  These changes must be reported via submission of an updated I-983 signed by you and your employer
  • Information about any disruption of your employment such as job termination (see End of Employment Reporting below)
  • New STEM OPT employment with a new E-Verify Employer. New STEM OPT employment requires submission of a new I-983 form, properly completed by you and your new employer, to an MU DSO before the start of the new employment.  

STEM OPT Validation and Self-Evaluation Reporting:

Regardless of whether there has been any change, you must make the following reports to an MU DSO on the timeline indicated:

    • 6-Month Validation Report- Every six (6) months from the start date of your STEM OPT authorization, you must email an OIE DSO an updated OPT Verification Form about your employment. Reporting is necessary even if nothing has changed with your employer.

    • 12-Month/24 Month Self-Evaluations - While on approved STEM OPT you must submit to OIE an annual self-evaluation at the 12 and 24 month point of STEM OPT using the "Evaluation on Student Progress"  section on the last page of your Form I-983.  The evaluation should be emailed to an OIE DSO with an updated OPT Verification Form.

    • End of Employment Reporting - If you end a STEM OPT position any time before the 24 month mark, you must submit two items to OIE:  A) a final self-evaluation, signed by your employer, using the "Evaluation on Student Progress" section on the last page of your Form I-983 no later than 10 days following the conclusion of the training opportunity, and B) an updated OPT Verification Form with the employment end date 
    • End of Employment Reporting, Employer Obligation - Your employer is required to notify and MU DSO of the end any STEM OPT position within 5 days.  This notice can be emailed. Be sure to remind your employer of this obligation as part of your end of employment processes.

Periods of Unemployment During STEM OPT

During STEM OPT maintaining your F鈥�1 status is dependent upon employment. You may not accrue an aggregate of more than 150 days of unemployment during the total OPT period comprising your initial post-completion OPT and the subsequent 24-month STEM extension. To avoid accruing unemployment days during STEM OPT, you must work at least 20 hours per week for an E-Verify employer for which you have a completed and approved Form I-983 on file with OIE. Each day during the authorized OPT period that you do not have qualifying employment counts as a day of unemployment.

According to current government guidelines, the Department of Homeland Security may terminate your F-1 visa status if it determines that you exceeded the limitations on unemployment during post-completion OPT including STEM OPT.  This may also impact future immigration benefits that rely on evidence of valid F-1 status.

 

Remote Work During STEM OPT

Remote work during STEM OPT is permissible as long as you otherwise continue to comply with all STEM OPT requirements and the training/mentoring/employment details as indicated on your Form I-983. If the remote work involves a change of the employment site location, the student must submit an updated, signed Form I-983 to their 向日葵视频DSO and the DSO will updated the site information in SEVIS.   

 

Traveling Outside of the U.S. During STEM OPT

Returning from travel outside the U.S. during STEM OPT is generally possible if you have the correct documents for your situation as described below:

Travel after applying for STEM OPT but before your regular OPT ends is the same as travel during regular OPT and you can return to the U.S. by presenting the following documents:

  • Your most recent I-20 with a DSO signature no older than 6 months*
  • a valid F-1 visa in your passport (If your visa is expired you may apply for new F-1 visa)
  • a valid passport
  • your EAD card

Travel outside the U.S. while your STEM OPT application is pending and your regular OPT has ended is ok with the documents above plus your original STEM OPT application receipt notice.

Travel after your STEM OPT is approved is generally ok and you can return to the U.S. by presenting the following documents:

  • Your most recent I-20 with a DSO signature no older than 6 months*
  • a valid F-1 visa in your passport (If your visa is expired you may apply for new F-1 visa)
  • a valid passport
  • your STEM OPT EAD

Although not required, employed students in all cases are encouraged to also have a letter from their employer.

* If you need a travel signature on your I-20, contact the Office of International Education at 向日葵视频at least two weeks prior to your departure. 

Missing travel documents?

Students with lost or missing passports should contact their embassy or consulate for assistance. Students with lost F-1 visas must make an appointment with a U.S. embassy or consulate to get a replacement visa before reentering the U.S. Students who lost their signed I-20 or forgot to get a travel signature should email OIE to request a replacement/updated I-20 via email. In limited cases, US CBP may allow entry to students who can otherwise be denied entry (e.g. without their I-20, without a valid travel signature, have not paid the I-901 fee, with certain SEVIS status problems). The conditions of any I-515 entry must be resolved by the student within the 30 days.

 

At the End of Your STEM OPT

Your practical training is automatically terminated if you transfer to another school or begin studies at another educational level at Marquette.

If you decide to leave the United States before the authorized OPT ending date on your EAD and do not plan to return to the U.S., please contact a 向日葵视频DSO with information about your date of departure.

After the ending date of your STEM OPT, you may remain in the U.S. for an additional 60 days. During this 鈥済race period鈥� you may transfer to another academic program, change to another visa status, or prepare to depart from the U.S. You may not be employed during this period.