Optional Practical Training Request Form

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Request Form

This form is to be completed by students requesting pre or post-completion OPT.

  • OPT Instructions

    The first step to applying to OPT is to submit this OPT Request Form. Once CIE approves your OPT request, you will receive a notification with your next steps. We suggest you submit this OPT Request form about 90 days prior to your graduation date. For pre-completion OPT, submit this request form 90 days prior to your desired employment start date.
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    Your I-20 expiration date is the same as your program completion date found on #5 of your I-20.
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  • OPT Start Date

    Your OPT start date must fall within 60 days from your program completion date on the I-20. If you are applying late, it is generally safer to choose a later date in your grace period to ensure receipt of your EAD card by your requested OPT start date. Note: Your OPT start date will be the date you requested or the date of USCIS approval, whichever is later. The requested OPT start date cannot be changed once your OPT application has been approved by USCIS.