USCIS Form I-765
The most up-to-date information on the process can be found on the USCIS website. UNA OIA is happy to provide this assistance from our experience, but the student bears the ultimate responsibility to submit a complete and accurate application.
USCIS allows F-1 students to submit online or by paper application. International Affairs STRONGLY recommends students use the online application.
Eligibility Code
If you are filing around your graduation, you should choose Post-completion Optional Practical Training: (c)(3)(B).
Students filing for the STEM Extension after completing their first year should choose STEM Extension (c)(3)(C).
New I-20 REQUIRED
You must receive a new I-20 showing the OPT recommendation on page 2 from a DSO in International Affairs before you submit the application. It must be uploaded with your application. If you file without the OPT recomemndation, your applicaiton will be denied, and you will lose your $410 fee.Forms and Instructions
Online Application for Initial OPT
(make a free account)
Screenshots of the online application to guide you through the online application
OIA's Checklist for Initial OPT online application
Online Application for STEM OPT
(make a free account)
OIA's Checklist for STEM OPT online application