Eligible for OPT
The following requirements must be met in order to be eligible for OPT:
- Students in valid F-1 status for one academic year (defined as fall and spring semester) with current SEVIS record
- Students who completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree program
- Students who completed a full academic year, which is defined as a fall and spring semester
When to Apply
Students can apply for OPT up to 90 days prior but no later than 60 days after their program completion date.
Eligibility Timeline
Bachelor's and master's coursework students are eligible:
- After completing all degree requirements
Master's with thesis or creative component and doctoral degree students are eligible:
- As early as the completion of required coursework, and as late as the end of the semester of final defense
Ineligible for OPT
The following situations make a student ineligible for OPT:
- Students who are now 60 days beyond the date on which all degree requirements were completed
- Students who were authorized for 12 months of OPT at the same educational level
- Students who used 365 days of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the same educational level
- Students who returned to the U.S. on a new SEVIS number and have not completed one full academic year (defined as fall and spring semester)
- Students in the Intensive English and Orientation Program (IEOP)
- Non-degree students
- Students completing a certificate program
Retaking Courses and Eligibility
You must apply for OPT no later than 60 days after completing all degree requirements. You cannot retake courses after completing your degree requirements and still be eligible for OPT.
OPT Eligibility After New Degree Program
Students are eligible for OPT after completing a higher educational level.