OPT Guide
Summary
This page is for Harvard F-1 students interested in pursuing Optional Practical Training (OPT). It will walk you through the process of applying for OPT, requirements for maintaining your status while on OPT, and ending your OPT.
Keep in mind:
- To qualify for OPT, you must be in active F-1 status for two consecutive semesters preceding the start date of OPT.
- An offer of employment is not required to apply for OPT.
- Any employment undertaken while on OPT must be directly related to your field of study.
- You also must be physically present in the U.S. and in active F-1 status at the time of application.
Please review this section carefully and reach out to your advisor if you have questions.
Applying for OPT
Applying for OPT is a multi-step process that involves both the Harvard International Office (HIO) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
You must first request OPT authorization through the HIO. After receiving your updated I-20 with an OPT recommendation, you then submit an application to USCIS for final approval.
Pre-Completion OPT
- Students may apply as early as 90 days before the proposed employment start date
- The earliest permissible start date is the date on which you have completed a full academic year
Post-Completion OPT
- Students completing a program of study can apply as early as 90 days before the date of program completion and/or graduation
- For May degree candidates, the date of the graduation ceremony is the program completion date
- Completed OPT applications must be received by USCIS no later than the 60th day after graduation/program completion
- You are advised to apply for OPT well in advance of your anticipated employment
- A job offer is not required to apply for OPT
- For students completing their programs at other points in the academic year, their HIO advisor can assist in determining the program completion date for OPT purposes
- For example, PhD students may use their defense date as their "program completion" date if they wish
- Students who have had a break in their F-1 student status (such as a leave of absence outside of the United States) should work closely with their HIO advisor to confirm their eligibility to apply for OPT
All F-1 students who plan to apply for either pre-completion or post-completion OPT must follow this procedure. There are three steps in an OPT application:
- Review the HIO’s application instructions and watch the OPT instructional videos below to learn how to prepare to file your OPT application.
- Submit an application to the HIO for an OPT recommendation I-20.
- Complete and submit the HIO OPT Request Form for an OPT recommendation.
- Upload all required documents.
- Graduating students applying for post-completion OPT must pay the maintenance fee via Touchnet.
- After receiving your OPT I-20 from the HIO, submit your final I-765 OPT application with USCIS via the USCIS online e-filing system.
- You must be in the U.S. in F-1 status to submit the application to USCIS.
DO NOT FILE YOUR I-765 APPLICATION BEFORE RECEIVING YOUR FINAL I-20 WITH THE OPT RECOMMENDATION FROM THE HIO. Filing your case without the new OPT I-20 will result in a denial of your OPT application.
Step 1: Application Overview
- The HIO will not be reviewing individual I-765 OPT application forms or supporting documentation.
- It is your responsibility to review:
- the detailed step-by-step instructions,
- the OPT application video (see the videos section below), and
- guides to prepare your final OPT application.
- Failure to follow the detailed instructions could result in a rejection, delay, or denial of your OPT application by USCIS.
- You are expected to:
- watch the HIO’s OPT instructional videos below, or attend a live OPT session with your HIO advisor,
- complete the required forms,
- put together the application,
- and submit the application to your HIO advisor through the online HIO OPT Request Form.
- The HIO will provide the OPT recommendation in the form of a new I-20.
- The HIO will send the I-20 to you via email.
- You will need to print this new I-20, sign it, and include it as part of your final OPT application to USCIS.
- Be sure to sign the I-20 document on the proper signature line on page 1.
- The HIO processing time is 5–7 business days.
- This email will also include:
- detailed instructions on how to complete your application,
- instructions on how to submit the application to USCIS via the USCIS e-File system, and
- what to expect after filing.
- In most cases, OPT is not denied by USCIS if you have:
- obtained the required recommendation from your HIO advisor
- submitted the required documents to USCIS.
- Common problems occur when the application guidelines are not followed, such as:
- Including an incorrect mailing address
- Using the wrong photograph format
- Filing the USCIS with an OPT I-20 that is older than 30 days
- Students who apply for post-completion OPT and then fail to graduate on the date indicated in their applications:
- Must contact their HIO advisors immediately if they do not graduate as planned.
- Risk violating their student visa status, possibly forfeiting their OPT.
Step 2: HIO Application
Students must submit the electronic HIO OPT Request Form to request an I-20 with an OPT recommendation.
The form will require students to upload the following documents:
- The HIO Date Verification Form.
- A copy of your I-94 record.
- For post-completion OPT only, proof of payment for the HIO maintenance fee.
- Include the Touchnet order number, a seven digit number, in the my.Harvard request form in the appropriate field.
- PhD, DrPH, and DDes Students:
- As part of the required documents, you will also need to upload a Doctoral Degree Confirmation Date form signed by your department or dissertation advisor confirming your defense and diploma award dates when you submit the HIO OPT electronic form request.
Please remember, you cannot submit your final OPT application to USCIS more than 90 days before your program end date, Form I-20 end date, or your application will be rejected.
Step 3: USCIS Application
- The OPT application is a personal application for which you are responsible.
- Please use the OPT resources to complete your final application.
- If you have questions or need clarifications, please contact your HIO advisor directly BEFORE filing your application with USCIS.
DO NOT FILE YOUR I-765 OPT APPLICATION BEFORE RECEIVING YOUR FINAL I-20 WITH THE OPT RECOMMENDATION FROM THE HIO. Filing your case without the new OPT I-20 will result in a denial of your OPT application.
Now that you have received your OPT I-20 and instructional email from the HIO, review the following links to compile your final application to USCIS:
- Consult the USCIS OPT Application Checklist for a full list of documents to include in your final OPT application that you will submit to USCIS.
- To complete the online Form I-765 OPT Application, consult the HIO’s e-file I-765 Guide.
- This application requires documentation from previously-authorized CPT and OPT.
- If you no longer have the applicable I-20s or OPT EAD cards, include a letter explaining the missing documentation.
- Please use this template.
Form I-765
Form I-765 is the core of your OPT application. It must be completed accurately according to USCIS instructions.
Key points:
- Use the correct eligibility category for post-completion OPT
- Ensure all personal and immigration information is consistent with your records
- Follow the HIO’s I-765 instructions carefully
Supporting Documents
You will need to include documents such as:
- Your OPT I-20 (with recommendation)
- Copies of previous immigration documents
- Photos (if required)
- Any additional materials listed in the USCIS checklist
All documents must meet USCIS requirements.
The USCIS OPT Application Checklist helps ensure that your application is complete before submission. Missing or incorrect items can delay processing or lead to denial.
You must pay the USCIS application fee when submitting Form I-765.
Payment may be completed through the appropriate system (such as Touchnet, if applicable), depending on how you submit your application.
Be sure to:
- Follow the correct payment method instructions
- Keep proof of payment
Once your application is complete, you must submit it to USCIS.
Important:
- USCIS must receive your application within 30 days of your OPT I-20 issuance
- Late submissions will be denied
- Keep copies of everything you submit
After submission, USCIS will process your application and issue a receipt notice.
- Apply as early as possible within the allowed window
- Processing times can vary and may affect your ability to begin work
- You cannot begin working until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and your start date has arrived
- Delays or errors in your application can impact your OPT period
- You are responsible for ensuring your application is complete and accurate
- All information must match your official records
- Follow both HIO and USCIS instructions carefully
- Keep copies of all forms and documents for your records
After You Apply & While on OPT
After you submit your OPT application to USCIS, several steps follow before you can begin working.
Receipt Notice
Once USCIS receives your application, they will issue a receipt notice confirming that your application is being processed. You should keep this notice for your records.
Processing Time
USCIS processing times can vary. During this period:
- You cannot begin employment until your application is approved
- You should monitor your case status and keep copies of all documentation
Requests for Additional Information
USCIS may request additional information or documentation. If this happens, you must respond within the specified timeframe.
You may begin working only when:
- Your OPT application is approved
- You have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Your approved start date has arrived
Working before meeting all of these conditions is not permitted.
Types of Employment Allowed while on Post-Completion OPT
All OPT employment, including post-completion OPT employment, is required to be related to the student’s program of study. The following list describes acceptable forms of employment:
- Paid employment--Students may work part time (at least 20 hours per week when on post-completion OPT) or full time.
- Multiple employers--Students may work for more than one employer, but all employment must be related to each individual student’s program of study.
- Short-term multiple employers (performing artists)-- Students, such as musicians and other performing artists, may work for multiple short term employers (gigs). The students must maintain a list of all gigs, the dates, and the duration.
- Work for hire This is also commonly referred to as 1099 employment where an individual performs a service based on a contractual relationship rather than an employer-employee relationship. If requested by the Department of Homeland Security, students should be prepared to provide evidence showing the duration of the contract periods and the name and address of the contracting company.
- Self-employed business owner-- Students on OPT may start a business and be self-employed. The student must be able to prove that they have the proper business licenses and are actively engaged in a business related to their program of study.
- Employment through an agency or consulting firm-- Students on post-completion OPT must be able to provide evidence showing that they worked an average of at least 20 hours per week while being employed by the agency.
- Unpaid employment-- Students may work as volunteers or unpaid interns, where this practice does not violate any labor laws. The work must be at least 20 hours per week for students on post-completion OPT. A student must be able to provide evidence, acquired from the student’s employer, to verify that they worked at least 20 hours per week during the period of employment.
Please note: STEM OPT extension rules and responsibilities are more extensive than the list above. Please see the STEM information.
Documenting Your Employment
During your OPT/ STEM OPT experience, you may find it beneficial to document your employment it is needed for a future immigration status or benefit. You do not need to provide this documentation to the HIO but you may wish to keep record for your personal files. Below are examples. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list.
• Letters of employment showing job titles, duties, location, pay rate, and number of hours worked.
• Bank statements showing payment from your employer
• Paystubs, W-2s, equity, stock options, other forms of compensation
• Documentation showing that you have not exceeded unemployment time.
• Proof that the job duties are related to your degree program.
For those who are self-employed or working on your own start up, you may also wish to consider maintaining documentation showing:
• Business licenses showing you as an employer;
• Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN);
• Incorporation documents
• Bank account for your business
While on OPT, you are still in F-1 status and must follow all requirements to maintain it.
Employment Requirement
You must be actively employed or engaged in qualifying employment. Periods of unemployment are limited.
Reporting Requirements
You are responsible for reporting certain information, including:
- Employment details
- Changes in employment
- Changes in address or contact information
Reporting must be completed within required timeframes.
Accuracy of Information
All reported information must be accurate and consistent with your records.
Post-Completion OPT is an extension of your F-1 status and you will remain under Harvard’s F-1 visa sponsorship throughout your OPT period. It is your responsibility to maintain your F-1 status while on OPT.
Working while on OPT
- You may start working only AFTER you receive the physical EAD and you are within the authorized dates on the EAD.
- You are not permitted to work in between your I-20 program end date and the start date of your EAD. This includes ALL EMPLOYMENT, including on-campus work.
- All OPT employment must be related to your program of study.
- F-1 Students on Post-Completion OPT must work at least 20 hours per week.
Limits on Unemployment
- There is a maximum period of 90 days of unemployment that can be accrued from the start date of your EAD. To avoid accruing unemployment time, you must report all employment undertaken while on OPT to the HIO.
- Please use the Post-Completion OPT reporting form to report OPT employment.
Mandatory Reporting Requirements
You must report the following changes within 10 days through the HIO’s Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form:
- New OPT Employment
- Ending OPT Employment
- Changes to your OPT Employer’s Name or Address
- Change of U.S. Residential Address
- If you choose to depart the U.S. permanently before the end date of your OPT EAD OR you obtain another visa status or permanent residency you must notify the HIO using the Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form.
Travel While on Post-Completion OPT
Travel signatures on your Form I-20 are valid for 6 months while on OPT rather than 12 months. You may request an updated travel signature in one of the following ways:
- Request an I-20 reprint when submitting the F-1 Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form
- Submit a Travel Signature Request form
Review the Travel Considerations While on OPT handout and/or watch the travel video below.
Information about renewing your F-1 visa can be found on our Travel & Re-entry page.
Please see the Travel & Re-entry page for more information.
Travel during OPT requires careful planning.
Before Approval
Traveling outside the United States while your OPT application is pending may carry risk, especially if your application has not yet been approved.
After Approval
If your OPT is approved and you plan to travel, you should have:
- Your EAD card
- A valid passport
- A valid F-1 visa (if required for re-entry)
- A signed I-20 with OPT recommendation
- Evidence of employment or a job offer
Re-entry to the United States is not guaranteed and depends on your documentation and status.
To remain in valid OPT status, you must:
- Stay within unemployment limits
- Maintain appropriate employment
- Keep your records up to date
- Follow all HIO and USCIS guidance
Careful compliance throughout your OPT period is essential to maintaining your status.
Ending Your OPT
Your post-completion OPT authorization is granted for a specific period, as listed on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Your OPT ends on the expiration date printed on your EAD unless it is ended earlier for another reason.
You are responsible for knowing your OPT end date and planning accordingly.
While on OPT, you continue to hold F-1 status sponsored by Harvard and your F-1 record remains active in SEVIS. It is extremely important that you use the HIO Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form to notify the HIO of any changes to your immigration status:
- If you leave the U.S. permanently before your EAD expires, or decide not to use OPT, you must notify the HIO by using the HIO Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form.
- If you change to another visa status in the U.S., such as H-1B, E-3, G-4, TN, etc. or obtain Permanent Resident status, you must notify the HIO. To report this change, you will need to complete the HIO Post-Completion OPT Reporting Form and upload evidence of your new status (e.g. new I-94 arrival/departure record AND I-797, or green card).
Your OPT may end before the EAD expiration date in certain situations. This can include:
- Ending employment and no longer maintaining qualifying OPT activity
- Transferring to another school
- Beginning a new academic program
- Changing to a different immigration status
Taking any of these actions may automatically end your OPT authorization.
While on OPT, you are allowed a limited number of days without qualifying employment. If you exceed the allowed unemployment limit, your OPT authorization may effectively end, and you may fall out of status.
It is important to:
- Track your employment carefully
- Ensure all employment meets OPT requirements
- Report changes as required
After your OPT ends, you may be eligible for a 60-day grace period.
During this time, you may:
- Prepare to depart the United States
- Transfer to another school
- Begin a new academic program (if eligible)
- Take steps to change your immigration status
You are not permitted to work during the grace period.
Before your OPT ends, you should plan for what comes next.
Options may include:
- Continuing your education
- Transferring your SEVIS record
- Applying for a change of status
- Departing the United States
Planning ahead can help ensure a smooth transition and avoid gaps in status.
You should keep documentation related to your OPT, including:
- Employment records
- Immigration documents
- Copies of prior applications and approvals
These records may be important for future applications or status changes.
- Your OPT ends on your EAD expiration date unless ended earlier
- You must stop working once your OPT authorization ends
- You cannot work during the grace period
- Staying beyond your allowed period without taking appropriate action can affect your immigration status