F-1 Optional Practical Training after program (Post-Completion OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Information For F-1 International Students

ATTENTION: International students CANNOT engage in any off-campus work/employment (paid or unpaid, or for an employer outside the U.S.) without prior authorization from the ISO or USCIS. Failure to receive prior authorization will jeopardize the student’s current U.S. immigration status, future U.S. immigration benefits, and the ability to complete their MIT academic program.

• Important ISO Post-Completion OPT Information
  • Required Post-Completion OPT eCourse
• F-1 ‘Practical Training’ Overview
• Defining ‘Optional Practical Training’
  • ‘Optional Practical Training’ Work/Employment Options
• What Is Post-Completion OPT (Post-OPT)?
  • OPT Eligibility Requirements
  • OPT Authorization Requirements
• Important Post-Completion OPT Dates & Deadlines
  • Allowable OPT Start & End Dates
  • USCIS OPT Application Deadlines
• OPT Application: Required Documents Checklist
• Applying For OPT Authorization & Important Requirements
  • Required OPT Form I-20 – Important Reminders
  • OPT Application: Online Or By Mail
  • USCIS Processing Times & Premium Processing Option
• OPT & Travel
  • Travel Before Form I-20 “Program of Study End Date”
  • Travel After The “Program of Study End Date”  – OPT Approved
  • Travel After The “Program of Study End Date” – OPT Pending
  • Important Travel Reminders & Considerations
• Maintaining F-1 Status During Post-Completion OPT
  • Reporting Requirements During OPT
  • Qualified Employment Requirements
  • OPT Unemployment Time
• Important Reminders & Considerations
  • Don’t Forget To Report Updates or Changes
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Before Applying For OPT Reminders
• Additional Post-Completion OPT Resources

IMPORTANT ISO POST-COMPLETION OPT INFORMATION

The ISO hosts immigration-related information sessions throughout the academic year. These sessions are announced in the ISO Newsletter and on the ISO News & Announcements webpage.

ATTENTION: This webpage is ONLY for F-1 degree-seeking students who will complete their MIT degree program within the next twelve (12) months.

*MIT-sponsored J-1 degree-seeking students must review the ISO J-1 Academic Training webpage for off-campus work/employment information.

*ALL other Special, Exchange, and VSP Non-Degree students DO NOT qualify for any off-campus work/employment authorization.

For additional questions about what U.S. immigration considers off-campus ‘Practical Training’ work/employment, students should thoroughly review all the ISO Employment web pages and the information regarding entrepreneurship and other U.S. immigration statuses on the ISO Student Content Access webpage [Kerberos Required]. 

Required Post-Completion OPT eCourse

To apply for the Post-Completion OPT benefit, all eligible F-1 students must complete and/or review the required ISO and USCIS materials before submitting a request via iMIT.

Eligible F-1 students applying for the Post-Completion OPT benefit must complete the ISO F-1 Post-Completion OPT eCourse and pass the accompanying quiz with a 90% or higher score. The eCourse must be completed within one (1) year of the student’s OPT request to the ISO (via iMIT) and application to USCIS. This is required before a student can request the Form I-20 necessary to apply for OPT authorization with USCIS.

• ONLY eligible F-1 students who have maintained F-1 status for one (1) academic year (fall and spring terms consecutively) and whose Form I-20 end date is within the next academic year will receive an email invitation to the ISO F-1 Post-Completion OPT eCourse. It will be sent directly from Canvas to their @mit.edu address.
• Students who believe they are eligible and have not received an invitation, and the eCourse is not listed on their Canvas homepage, must contact iso-help@mit.edu with their MIT ID number, department, program, and expected completion date to request access to the eCourse.

Back to Top

F-1 ‘PRACTICAL TRAINING’ OVERVIEW

U.S. federal regulations impose strict limitations on work/employment opportunities for international students. Any work/employment-related activity—on or off-campus, paid or unpaid—requires proper authorization before beginning any work/employment-related activities. Understanding U.S. immigration rules and regulations regarding work/employment is crucial for a student’s success in the U.S.

Regulations and guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) state that individuals DO NOT need to be formally classified as “employees” to require work/employment authorization under a U.S. student immigration status.

The U.S. government defines work/employment-related activities by the “nature of the work/employment-related activities, services, and/or duties performed”, regardless of whether it’s paid or unpaid, for a company outside the U.S. and/or a non-U.S. company. If a student provides a service or benefit to an employer, organization, or individual, proper work/employment authorization is required.

Back to Top

DEFINING ‘OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING’

ATTENTION: OPT is a benefit of a student’s current F-1 status; it is NOT a separate U.S. immigration status. OPT is authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which extends a student’s F-1 status and allows them the ability to pursue work/employment in the U.S., but only if they meet all the requirements [see What Is Post-Completion OPT (Post-OPT)? section below].

‘Optional Practical Training’ Work/Employment Options

There are three (3) types of ‘Optional Practical Training’ off-campus work/employment authorizations available to F-1 students: 

1. Pre-Completion OPT (Pre-OPT): F-1 students interested in off-campus work/employment may apply for Pre-Completion OPT before completing an MIT degree program. They must review the ISO Pre-Completion OPT webpage and thoroughly review the F-1 Pre-Completion OPT Employment slides [Kerberos Required].
2. Post-Completion OPT (Post-OPT): Off-campus work/employment authorization allowed after degree completion and will be discussed on this webpage.
3. STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT): F-1 students interested in applying for the STEM OPT Extension must thoroughly review the ISO STEM OPT Extension webpage. NOTE: F-1 students who have earned a degree in a field included in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM-Designated Degree Program List and are currently on Post-Completion OPT may be eligible to apply for a STEM OPT Extension.

Back to Top

WHAT IS POST-COMPLETION OPT (POST-OPT)?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an off-campus work/employment authorization that must comply with U.S. federal regulations [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)]. All F-1 students who have earned a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree in the U.S. are eligible to apply for OPT authorization for up to twelve (12) months ‘Per Degree Level’*.

**ATTENTION** ‘Per Degree Level’ means that students who have already been authorized for OPT at a specific degree level are NOT eligible to apply for OPT again at the same degree level. Additionally, U.S. immigration considers the entire OPT benefit used, even if the student did not utilize the entire OPT period. Any unused Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, or STEM OPT Extension time CANNOT be reclaimed. For example, if a student was approved for 12 months of OPT at the master’s degree level, they CANNOT receive another 12 months after earning a second master’s degree.

Post-Completion OPT Eligibility Requirements

Authorization for OPT can only be granted if the following criteria are met: 

1. Immigration Status Specific: Eligible students must have been in lawful F-1 status for at least one (1) academic year (consecutive fall and spring terms).
2. Academic Department Approval: Eligible students require approval from the academic department to confirm they are in good academic standing, have maintained full-time enrollment in an MIT degree-seeking program, and will complete all degree requirements.
   • NOTE: Students in Non-Resident MIT Student Status are NOT allowed to apply for CPT, as enrollment in courses is prohibited during a Non-Resident term at MIT. However, these students are usually eligible to apply for Pre-Completion OPT.
3. Degree Completion: Eligible students must have completed all degree requirements before the work/employment begins.
4. Previous ‘Practical Training’ Authorizations: Eligible students HAVE NOT:
   • a) Been approved for twelve (12) months of full-time CPT authorization in their current degree level.
   • b) Been approved for twelve (12) months of full-time OPT at the same degree level.
     • NOTE: Rules “a)” and “b)” above apply even if they pursue multiple degrees at the same degree level at different institutions/schools.
5. Reviewed Required Information: Eligible students have thoroughly reviewed this webpage’s information and links.

REMINDER: A work/employment job offer is NOT required for Pre- or Post-Completion OPT applications.

Back to Top

Post-Completion OPT Authorization Requirements

IMPORTANT: Students CANNOT engage in any work/employment (on-campus (e.g., RA, TA) or off-campus, paid or unpaid) AFTER the “End Date” listed in the “Program of Study” section on page 1 of their most recently issued Form I-20.

REMEMBER: Students wishing to engage in ANY work/employment AFTER completing their degree MUST have received their physical Post-Completion OPT EAD card and be within the dates listed on the card. Additionally, once a degree is conferred, students are no longer eligible for designated MIT ‘student’ positions, such as student research or teaching assistant roles.

1. Required OPT Materials: Follow the instructions on this webpage and the OPT eCourse and obtain the following materials (items 2-4).
2. eCourse Completion: Eligible students must complete the ISO F-1 Post-Completion OPT eCourse and achieve a 90% or higher score on the accompanying quiz. NOTE: Students MUST remember to screenshot/save their OPT eCourse quiz results as a PDF document because a copy of the quiz results will be required for an OPT request to iMIT.
3. Departmental OPT Support Letter: Obtain a Departmental OPT Support Letter on departmental letterhead, signed by the student’s academic department administrator/program coordinator in consultation with the appropriate faculty/advisor, confirming:
   • a) The student is in good academic standing.
   • b) The student is enrolled full-time in their degree program at MIT, including the degree level and major field of study that will be earned.
   • c) The practical experience the student seeks will directly relate to their MIT degree/major field of study.
   • d) The date and term the student is expected to complete their MIT degree program. For immigration purposes, this is called the “Program of Study End Date,” which refers to the point at which students have fulfilled ALL degree requirements.
     • For Undergraduate Students, this may be the expected date all degree requirements are met, the date all final grades are received, or the date the department and registrar’s office certify the degree.
     • For Graduate Students, this may be the expected date all degree requirements are met, the dissertation/thesis completion date, or the date the department and registrar’s office certify the degree.
     • For Both Undergraduate & Graduate Students: Remember, NO work/employment (i.e., RA/TA duties, stipends, etc.) can occur AFTER the Form I-20 “Program of Study End Date”.
       • Students unsure about their exact MIT degree program completion date must contact their academic department advisor, coordinator, and/or administrator.
4. $150 MIT Administrative Fee: This fee is required for OPT requests longer than 100 days (15 weeks). It can be paid online by debit or credit card.
5. Submit OPT Request via iMIT: Students should request the required OPT Form I-20 at least two (2) weeks before the intended OPT submission date to USCIS. NOTE: ISO document processing times remain ten (10) business days (excluding weekends and holidays).
   • The student must log in to iMIT through ‘Full Client Services’, select the ‘F-1 Practical Training’ tab on the left sidebar of their iMIT Home Page, select ‘Optional Practical Training’, ‘Start a New Request’, then complete all five (5) e-Forms under the Optional Practical Training’ e-Form request. NOTE: Students can ONLY request Post-Completion OPT authorization for full-time work/employment (21+ hours per week).
   • ATTENTION: Students MUST choose their OPT start date BEFORE submitting their request for the new OPT Form I-20 in iMIT. To help select an OPT start date, review the Important Post-Completion OPT Dates & Deadlines section below and the F-1 Post-Completion OPT eCourse (Module 5). 

Back to Top

IMPORTANT POST-COMPLETION OPT DATES & DEADLINES

IMPORTANT: Failure to adhere to the dates, deadlines, and requirements outlined on this webpage and the Post-Completion OPT eCourse can result in the loss of a student’s entire OPT benefit. READ CAREFULLY.

Allowable OPT Start & End Dates

Choosing a Post-Completion OPT start and end date will depend on a student’s specific circumstances. Students are strongly encouraged to check a calendar before selecting their dates. Students can calculate the dates using timeanddate.com. For example, it is advisable to avoid U.S. holidays and consider a Monday start date, as many employers prefer new employees to begin on a Monday.

Nonetheless, students can ONLY select OPT dates that meet the following deadlines:

• OPT START Date Requirements:
  • Must be AFTER the student’s program of study end date, as indicated in the Departmental OPT Support Letter and OPT Form I-20.
  • Must be BEFORE the end of the student’s 60-day grace period following the program of study end date, as stated in the Departmental OPT Support Letter and OPT Form I-20.
• OPT END Date Requirements:
  • Must be precisely 364 days AFTER the student’s program of study end date, as indicated in the Departmental OPT Support Letter and OPT Form I-20.
  • For example, if a student completes their degree on May 30 [Current Year] and selects a start date of June 15 [Current Year], their OPT end date must be June 14 [Next Year] (12 months minus one day).
• ATTENTION: Under a student’s current MIT degree program, any period of OPT used before degree completion (Pre-Completion OPT) must be subtracted from their 12-month Post-Completion OPT eligibility period.
  • Approved full-time Pre-Completion OPT authorization is deducted at the full rate. For example, if a student is approved for 4 months of full-time Pre-Completion OPT, they must deduct 4 months from the 12-month Post-Completion OPT eligibility period.
  • Approved part-time Pre-Completion OPT is deducted at half the rate. For example, if a student is approved for 4 months of part-time Pre-Completion OPT, they must deduct 2 months from the 12-month Post-Completion OPT eligibility period.

Back to Top

USCIS OPT Application Deadlines

Students can ONLY submit an OPT application by the deadlines below. Submitting an OPT application outside these deadlines will result in a DENIAL of the OPT application. Students can calculate the exact dates using timeanddate.com.

• Earliest Allowable OPT Submission: 90 DAYS BEFORE the program of study end date, as stated in a student’s Departmental OPT Support Letter and OPT Form I-20.
  • For example, if a student’s program of study end date is May 30 [Current Year], the earliest submission date would be March 2 [Current Year].
• Latest Allowable OPT Submission: NO LATER THAN 59 DAYS AFTER the program of study end date, as stated in a student’s Departmental OPT Support Letter and OPT Form I-20.
  • For example, if a student’s program of study end date is May 30 [Current Year], the latest submission date would be July 28 [Current Year].  
  • NOTE: If a student departs the U.S. any time AFTER the “Program of Study End Date” and has NOT applied for OPT with USCIS, their F-1 status will automatically terminate, and they CANNOT return to the U.S. in their F-1 status, and they will lose their ability to apply for the OPT benefits with their MIT degree. 
• REQUIRED OPT Submission: An OPT application MUST be submitted to USCIS within 30 DAYS of ISO issuing the OPT Form I-20, as indicated by the signature on page 1 of the form.
  • For example, if the ISO issued an OPT Form I-20 on March 15 [Current Year], the application MUST be submitted to USCIS BEFORE April 13 [Current Year].

IMPORTANT: Students are REQUIRED to be PHYSICALLY PRESENT in the U.S. when USCIS receives their OPT application, as USCIS can review a student’s most recent I-94 Arrival and Departure records.

Back to Top

OPT APPLICATION: REQUIRED DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

Students must follow the instructions below and organize their OPT application in the specified order, whether applying online or by mail to USCIS. Remember, students need their MIT Post-Completion OPT Form I-20 BEFORE they can apply for OPT with USCIS.

ATTENTION: On the OPT application (Form I-765), in the ‘U.S. Mailing Address’ section, students MUST input a U.S. mailing address that will be valid for, and they will have access to, at least five (5) months* beyond the Form I-20 “Program of Study End Date”.

*For students who plan on changing their U.S. address within five (5) months of the OPT Form I-20 “Program of Study End Date”, it is advisable to list the U.S. address of a trusted friend or family member.

NOTE: Students CANNOT use the ISO office address.

Required Post-Completion OPT Documents:

1. Form I-765, OPT Application Fee: Verify, in advance, the current USCIS Form I-765 application fee.
   • Online Form I-765 Application: Students who apply online must use a U.S. debit or credit card to pay the OPT fee.
   • Mail-In Form I-765 Application: Students who apply by mail must choose one of the following options to pay the OPT fee:
     • 1) Bank-Certified Check or Money Order — Payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Write “Form I-765” and your SEVIS ID number in the memo line.
     • 2) Form G-1450 — Submit this form to pay with a U.S. debit or credit card.
   • CAUTION: Students should notify their U.S. bank or credit card provider in advance to avoid fraud alerts that may cause payment denials. Incorrect card details (e.g., wrong card number or expiration date) will also result in application denial or rejection.
2. E-Notification of Application Acceptance: This enables students to receive a text/email notification when USCIS receives their OPT application.
   • Online OPT Application: When applying online, students should use a personal email, NOT an @mit.edu address, and a U.S. mobile number in the online form.
   • Mail-In OPT Application: If mailing an OPT application, students should also submit the (optional) Form G-1145 using a personal email, NOT an @mit.edu address, and a U.S. mobile number.
3. Passport Photos: Must be taken within the last 30 days.
   • Online OPT Application: Students who apply online must follow the USCIS document upload requirements under the Tips for Filing Forms Online webpage.
   • Mail-In OPT Application: Students who apply by mail must follow the USCIS document upload requirements under the Tips for Filing Forms by Mail webpage. Additionally, students should write their name and SEVIS ID number lightly in pencil or felt pen on the back of each photo (toward the bottom to prevent damage) and securely paperclip the photos and payment to the top of the OPT application (no staples).
4. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: Students must submit the Form I-765 either online or by mail, NOT both [see the OPT Application: Online Or By Mail section below]
   • Online OPT Application: Students who apply online must follow the USCIS Tips for Filing Forms Online webpage and the ISO Online Form I-765 Filing Resource Guide handout.
   • Mail-In OPT Application: Students who apply by mail must follow the USCIS Tips for Filing Forms by Mail webpage and the ISO I-765 Additional Tips handout.
     • Important Reminders for Mail-In OPT Applications:
       • Use the most recent edition of Form I-765 and carefully review the instructions on the USCIS website.
       • It is strongly recommended that responses be typed before printing the form. If filling out by hand, use black ink ONLY.
5. Copy of OPT Form I-20: Students MUST provide pages 1 and 2 of the Form I-20 for both online and mail-in OPT applications.
   • Important Reminder: Students are REQUIRED to print and hand-sign their Form I-20s in wet ink. U.S. immigration regulations strictly prohibit electronic signatures on Form I-20s.
6. Copies of ALL Previously Issued Form I-20s: Students MUST provide pages 1 and 2 of all the Form I-20s ever issued to them from MIT and any previous institutions (for older Form I-20s, pages 1 & 3). NOTE: Students missing copies of previously issued Form I-20s must follow the instructions in OPT eCourse, Module 7, Optional Cover Letter section.
   • Online OPT Application: When applying online, students must upload all Form I-20s as a single PDF document, in chronological order, from most recent to oldest.
   • Mail-In OPT Application: If mailing an OPT application, students should arrange the Form I-20s chronologically, from most recent to oldest.
7. Copy of Form I-94 Entry/Arrival Record: Students MUST provide a copy of their most recently issued I-94 Entry/Arrival Record for both online and mail-in OPT applications. NOTE: DO NOT submit an I-94 Travel History Record — ONLY the I-94 Entry/Arrival Record is required.
8. Copy of Current Passport: Students MUST provide a copy of the most recently issued passport, as listed under “Citizenship” on the OPT Form I-20, for both online and mail-in OPT applications. The passport copy MUST be valid/unexpired and include the student’s name, photo, date of birth, passport number, issuance date, and expiration date.
   • NOTE: Students who have a new passport and an old passport with their F-1 visa sticker/stamp, please include copies of both and label them accordingly (e.g., “Old Passport” / “New Passport”).
9. Copy of F-1 Visa Sticker/Stamp: Students MUST provide a copy of their most recently issued F-1 visa sticker/stamp (except for citizens of Canada and Bermuda) for both online and mail-in OPT applications. NOTE: A valid F-1 visa sticker/stamp is NOT required to apply for an OPT application.
10. Copies of Previous EAD Cards (if applicable): Students MUST provide a copy(s) of all previously approved F-1 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) cards, including both the front and back of each card.

IMPORTANT: Students who apply online MUST submit their OPT application NO LATER than 58 days BEFORE the deadline. This is required because USCIS uses the Universal Time Zone (UTC) as its online application time standard.

Back to Top

APPLYING FOR OPT AUTHORIZATION & IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS

ATTENTION: Before submitting an OPT application online or by mail to USCIS, students should:
1) Review the OPT eCourse and this webpage thoroughly.
2) Gather all required documents [see the OPT Required Documents Checklist section above]
3) Save a complete copy of the entire OPT application (hardcopy or digital) —including any payment receipts— for personal U.S. immigration record keeping.

Required OPT Form I-20 – Important Reminders

After submitting an ‘Optional Practical Training’ e-Form request to the ISO (via iMIT), the ISO will review the request and process the student’s OPT Form I-20 within ten (10) business days (excluding weekends or holidays).

• The OPT Form I-20 will be sent to the student’s @MIT.edu email address.
• The OPT Form I-20 will include a new travel signature (valid for six (6) months) and the OPT recommendation on page 2.
• Students MUST first request and receive the new OPT Form I-20 from the ISO with the OPT recommendation on page 2 BEFORE applying for OPT with USCIS. Submitting an OPT application to USCIS without this document will result in the application being DENIED.
• Students MUST be physically present in the U.S. when USCIS receives their OPT application.

Back to Top

OPT Application: Online Or By Mail

Students must decide how they want to apply for OPT with USCIS, choosing from the following options, details below:

1. Online: By creating a USCIS Online Account.
2. By Mail: Students sending a paper application to USCIS are recommended to mail their OPT application to USCIS via express mail using either a private courier service (FedEx or UPS) or the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The application MUST be sent to the correct USCIS mailing address designated for “Foreign Students” as listed on the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-765 webpage.
   • NOTE: Students MUST keep the mailing receipt from the OPT package as evidence that they submitted their application to USCIS “properly and in a timely manner.

Back to Top

USCIS Processing Times & Premium Processing Option

ATTENTION: USCIS processing times vary; standard OPT applications are adjudicated in three (3) to five (5) months. Students should initiate their OPT request with the ISO as early as possible, at least 100 days BEFORE their “Program of Study End Date” to ensure timely receipt of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.

NOTE: USCIS offers Premium Processing for OPT applications submitted online or by mail using Form I-907. Students can request Premium Processing when submitting their initial OPT application or later while their application is pending.

USCIS has stated that online and mailed applications take approximately the same amount of time to process. Students can check current USCIS processing times by visiting the USCIS Check Case Processing Times webpage and selecting:

• Form: I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
• Form Category: All other applications for employment authorization.
• Field Office or Service Center: Potomac Service Center.
• Clicking: ”Get processing time”.

Back to Top

OPT & TRAVEL

All international students should carefully consider travel plans outside the U.S. before and after the program completion date listed on their Form I-20. While travel is permitted after submitting an OPT application to USCIS, it carries potential risks and should be done cautiously.

IMPORTANT: Students traveling to a country other than their home country or the U.S. MUST confirm entry visa requirements and any travel restrictions for the countries they visit and/or transit through.

Additionally, students must NEVER enter the U.S. on a tourist visa (B-1/B-2) or the Visa Waiver Program (VWP/ESTA), as this will TERMINATE their F-1 status and INVALIDATE any OPT/STEM OPT benefits..

Travel BEFORE Form I-20 “Program of Study End Date”

Students who travel outside the U.S. and return BEFORE the “Program of Study End Date” listed on page 1 of their Form I-20 are considered a Current F-1 Student and must carry the following, regardless of whether they have an OPT application pending or approved with USCIS:

1. Valid Passport: A passport must always be valid for six (6) months into the future.
2. Valid F-1 Visa Sticker/Stamp: F-1 entry visa sticker/stamp must be valid (NOT Expired) to enter the U.S. [Except for citizens of Canada and Bermuda].
3. Form I-20: The most recently issued Form I-20 was signed for travel (page 2) within the past 12 months. Example: If a Form I-20 document was signed for travel on September 15 [Current Year], it remains valid for multiple trips until September 14 [Following Year] – OR – until the end date listed on page 1, whichever date comes first.
4. Evidence of Enrollment: Can be obtained online from the Registrar’s Office.
5. Evidence of Financial Support: Financial support documentation (as listed on the Form I-20). See the ISO website for financial support documentation requirements.

NOTE: A student’s I-94 Record will change after they return to the U.S. This is expected and DOES NOT impact a submitted and/or pending OPT application.

Back to Top

Travel AFTER The “Program of Study End Date” – OPT APPROVED

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) states, “If USCIS has approved your OPT, you will be expected to have your EAD in hand to re-enter the United States, in addition to your Form I-20, valid passport and visa, and a letter of employment if you have one. If you exceed the limits on unemployment while outside the United States, you will not be eligible to re-enter the United States in F-1 status.”

Therefore, students whose OPT has been approved and who plan to return to the U.S. AFTER the “Program of Study End Date” listed on page 1 of their Form I-20 MUST carry the following documents:

1. Valid Passport: A passport must always be valid for six (6) months into the future.
2. Valid F-1 Visa Sticker/Stamp: F-1 entry visa sticker/stamp must be valid (NOT Expired) to enter the U.S. Except for citizens of Canada and Bermuda.
3. Form I-20: The most recently issued Form I-20 MUST:
   • Have the student’s current OPT employer(s) information listed on page 2.
   • Have been signed for travel (page 2) within the past six (6) months.
4. EAD Card(s): Physical EAD card(s).
5. Employer Support Letter(s): A recently issued letter from the OPT employer, including the dates of employment/training, job duties, location of the work/employment activity, supervisor contact information, and any salary/stipend received. If the OPT employment is unpaid, documentation of financial support during OPT will be required.

Back to Top

Travel AFTER The “Program of Study End Date” – OPT PENDING

The ISO strongly advises against travel for students who travel outside the U.S. and return AFTER the “Program of Study End Date” listed on page 1 of their Form I-20. This is especially true if the student’s OPT application is pending with USCIS. ICE states that students may enter the U.S. if their OPT application is pending, “but traveling during this time should be undertaken with caution.”

Therefore, travel outside the U.S. is NOT recommended for students with a pending OPT application who plan to return to the U.S. AFTER the “Program of Study End Date” listed on page 1 of their Form I-20. Doing so carries significant risks, including but not limited to:

• OPT Denial/Rejection: If USCIS denies the OPT application while the student is outside the U.S., their F-1 status ends, and they CANNOT return in F-1 status or reapply for OPT with their MIT degree.
• USCIS Request for Evidence (RFE): An RFE must be responded to from INSIDE the U.S. If a student is abroad, they may be unable to reply, leading to OPT denial.
• EAD Card Approval While Abroad: ICE states, “If USCIS has approved your OPT, you will be expected to have your EAD in hand to re-enter the United States.”  This would require the student to arrange for a friend or relative in the U.S. to send their EAD card from their U.S. address to their location abroad [See the Important Reminders & Considerations section below, #5].
• Lost EAD Card: A Replacement EAD Card application to USCIS MUST be submitted from INSIDE the U.S. If an EAD card is lost while the student is abroad, they CANNOT apply for a replacement, which may delay or prevent their return to the U.S.

CAUTION: The ISO can NEVER guarantee entry into the U.S. or predict outcomes at a U.S. Port of Entry (POE). Students MUST have all the required documentation mentioned above to enter the U.S. AFTER the “Program of Study End Date” listed on page 1 of their Form I-20. Otherwise, they risk being denied entry and losing their F-1 status and OPT benefits.

Back to Top

Important Travel Reminders & Considerations

• Travel Signatures: After the end date listed on a student’s Form I-20 and during OPT, travel signatures (page 2) are ONLY valid for six (6) months.
• I-94 Record: Students MUST continue to check their I-94 record upon EVERY entry into the U.S. to confirm it lists “F-1” as the Class Of Admission and “D/S” as the Admit Until Date.
• OPT EAD Card: If a student’s OPT EAD card has been approved, they must carefully review all information on the card and upload a copy to iMIT upon receipt. If there are any errors on the card, the student must email their ISO Advisor as soon as possible.
• Travel Considerations: If a student exits the U.S. and their F-1 visa sticker/stamp has expired, they must apply for a new F-1 visa sticker/stamp at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad before returning to the U.S. in F-1 status with OPT. NOTE: Students not traveling outside the U.S. DO NOT need a valid F-1 visa sticker/stamp in their passport to remain in the country.
  • ATTENTION: F-1 students are NOT allowed to have prolonged absences outside the U.S. for more than five (5) consecutive months.

Back to Top

MAINTAINING F-1 STATUS DURING POST-COMPLETION OPT

REMINDER: OPT is a benefit of a student’s F-1 status. It is NOT a separate U.S. immigration status. Therefore, F-1 students are responsible for maintaining their U.S. nonimmigrant status, particularly during their approved OPT periods.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) closely monitors work/employment authorizations for international students. DHS-issued Policy Guidance clearly states that ALL off-campus work/employment activities (OPT/STEM OPT) MUST meet all eligibility criteria, including being “directly related to the student’s major area of study” [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)].

IMPORTANT: All work/employment activities MUST be specific to the student’s major field of study and NOT based on general concepts from the degree program or a single course.

Therefore, to avoid any impacts on current or future U.S. immigration status and benefits (i.e., H-1B and Green Card), students MUST ensure that their OPT, or STEM OPT Extension work/employment authorizations meet all the eligibility criteria outlined throughout the ISO website, the ISO Knowledge Base webpage here, on the U.S. government web pages.

Back to Top

Reporting Requirements During OPT

U.S. federal regulations mandate that all F-1 students report any updates or changes to the ISO (via iMIT) within 10 calendar days of their occurrence. Failure to comply with these reporting requirements may result in the termination of the student’s F-1 status and denial of future U.S. immigration benefits such as an extension of employment under the STEM OPT Extension, OPT Cap-Gap, and other U.S. immigration benefits (H-1B, Permanent Residency, etc.).

Back to Top

Qualified Employment Requirements

To maintain F-1 status while on OPT, students must engage in “Qualified Employment” that meets the following criteria:

• Work/Employment Directly Related To Degree: All work/employment MUST be directly related to the student’s degree and provide practical experience in their field of study.
• Full-Time Work/Employment: All work/employment during OPT MUST be full-time.
  • NOTE: U.S. immigration considers 21+ hours per week or more as full-time work/employment in the U.S. This can include multiple concurrent jobs as long as the total equals at least 21+ hours per week or more.
• U.S. Presence: The student will maintain a U.S. phone number and address.
• U.S. Immigration Documentation: The student maintains evidence/documentation of ALL work/employment activities (i.e., employment dates, duration, job duties, hours per week, company name, worksite address, job offer letter, pay stubs, W2 forms, etc.).
• OPT Reporting: The student reports updates or changes to iMIT within 10 calendar days.

Examples of “Qualified Employment” – MUST Meet Criteria Above:

• Multiple Employers: Students may work for more than one employer simultaneously as long as the total hours worked per week is 21+ hours or more.
• Short-Term/Contract-Based: Students may work for multiple short-term, contract-based employers, staffing agencies, and/or consulting firms.
• Self-Employed Business Owner: Students may start their own business. They must prove that they have the proper business licenses (or are in the process of obtaining them) and are actively engaged in their business-related venture. Supporting documents, such as a business plan or investor information, are recommended.
• Paid Work/Employment: Full-time employment is defined as working 21+ or more hours per week, including two or more part-time jobs totaling 21+ hours per week. For example, a student may have two (2) part-time jobs totaling 30 hours a week.
• Unpaid Work/Employment: Students may work in unpaid positions, such as volunteer roles or internships, as long as it meets the “Qualified Employment” criteria above and does not violate U.S. labor laws.

Back to Top

Unemployment Time

F-1 students are allowed a MAXIMUM of 90 calendar days (including weekends) of unemployment during their 12-month OPT period. Unemployment time ONLY begins accruing from the start date listed on the approved OPT EAD card.

Examples of Unemployment Scenarios:

• Delayed Employment Start: If a student’s EAD card lists a start date of June 15 [Current Year], but employment doesn’t begin until June 30 [Current Year], the student accrues 15 days of unemployment time.
• Late EAD Card Receipt: If the EAD card is approved with a start date of June 15 [Current Year], but the student doesn’t receive the card until June 20 [Current Year], the student accrues 5 days of unemployment time.
• Gap Between Employment: If employment with Employer A ends on November 15 [Current Year], and the student starts with Employer B on December 15 [Current Year], the student accrues 30 days of unemployment time.

ATTENTION: International students CANNOT engage in any off-campus work/employment (paid or unpaid, or for an employer outside the U.S.) without prior authorization from the ISO or USCIS.

REMEMBER: Students can always find detailed information about their Post-Completion OPT reporting requirements on the ISO F-1 Post-Completion OPT Reporting Requirements webpage and in the ISO Knowledge Base.

Back to Top

IMPORTANT REMINDERS & CONSIDERATIONS

Don’t Forget To Report Updates or Changes

International students are responsible for maintaining their U.S. immigration status. This includes ensuring full-time enrollment each academic term, keeping immigration documents valid and up to date, and reporting any changes or updates to the ISO within 10 calendar days.

• DURING Degree Program: Students must report any changes or updates (i.e., address, work/employment, academic program, etc.) to the ISO, who will then notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
  • Address updates should be made in WebSIS under the “SEVIS U.S. Address” field.
  • All other updates must be submitted through iMIT.
  • NOTE: Failure to report these updates/changes or allowing the program of study end date on the Form I-20 to expire will result in the loss of a student’s legal U.S. immigration status, which can have serious consequences.
• AFTER Degree Program (OPT/STEM OPT): Students must report all changes or updates (i.e., address, work/employment, academic program, etc.) to the ISO (via iMIT), who will then notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
  • NOTE: Failure to report these updates/changes will result in the loss of a student’s legal U.S. immigration status, which can have serious consequences.

REMINDER: The mission of the ISO is to assist all MIT international students in navigating the complexities of maintaining a legal U.S. immigration status while in the U.S. However, international students are responsible for maintaining their F-1 status in the U.S. Additionally, the ISO relies on students to keep us informed of all updates and changes to help us support and ensure the students’ compliance with their U.S. regulatory responsibilities.

Back to Top

Social Security Number (SSN)

The ISO provides detailed instructions on our Social Security Number (SSN) webpage to help students complete their SSN applications.

• Students With An SSN: If a student already has an SSN, they DO NOT need to apply again. An SSN is valid for life.
• Students Without An SSN: If a student DOES NOT have an SSN, they can apply for an SSN in one of two ways (NOT both):
  • 1) Apply for one through the OPT application (Form I-765). If a student applies for an SSN through Form I-765, the SSN card will ONLY be issued AFTER their OPT EAD card has been approved and mailed.
    • NOTE: Students are NOT required to request an SSN with their Form I-765 OPT application. Instead, they can visit any SSA office in the U.S. once they have received their approved OPT EAD card (see #2 below).
  • 2) In person at a Social Security Administration (SSA) office no earlier than 30 days BEFORE the start date on their approved EAD card.

Back to Top

Before Applying For OPT Reminders

1. Complete OPT eCourse: F-1 students interested in OPT must complete the ISOPost-Completion OPT eCourse and accompanying quiz.
2. OPT Information Review: Review this webpage (thoroughly), including all handouts and instructions.
3. ISO OPT Request: Gather all required documents and materials to submit an OPT request to the ISO (via iMIT).
4. OPT Form I-20: Obtain the new Form I-20 with OPT recommendation from the ISO.
5. Confirm U.S. Address (IMPORTANT): Remember, students MUST provide a U.S. mailing address on the Form I-765 that they will have access to at least five (5) months beyond the Form I-20 program of study end date.
   • The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) CANNOT forward USCIS government mail using the USPS Mail Forwarding Service and/or the AR-11 Online Form; therefore, changing a U.S. address while an OPT application is pending is NOT recommended.
   • If students need to update their U.S. mailing address AFTER submitting their OPT application to USCIS, they should contact their ISO Advisor for more information.
6. Photocopies: Students are strongly advised to retain copies of ALL immigration documents and receipts, especially for an OPT application, as part of their personal immigration records.
7. OPT Fees: Be ready with the required fee payment(s). Verifying the correct fees in advance.
8. Gather Required Documents: Students must gather and ensure that all required documents, materials, and information are accurate, complete, and comply with all requirements.
9. NO WORK/EMPLOYMENT-RELATED ACTIVITIES: Students CANNOT begin any work/employment-related activities (paid or unpaid) until they have:
   • Received OPT approval from USCIS.
   • Received the physical Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
   • The “Valid From” start date listed on the EAD card has occurred.
   • REMINDER! Engaging in work/employment without proper authorization can have serious consequences, including, but not limited to:
     • Jeopardizing a student’s ability to complete their MIT degree program.
     • Requiring a student’s immediate departure from the U.S.
     • Impacting future eligibility for U.S. immigration statuses and benefits (e.g., STEM OPT, H-1B, O-1).

Back to Top

ADDITIONAL POST-COMPLETION OPT RESOURCES

ISO/MIT Resources:

• ISO USCIS Online Form I-765 Filing Resource Guide handout
• The ISO Post-Completion OPT eCourse
• The ISO Post-Completion OPT Reporting Requirements webpage
• ISO main Employment webpage
• ISO Knowledge Base webpage

USCIS Resources:

• USCIS OPT Resource webpage
• USCIS Announces F-1 Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, and STEM OPT Extension Application Fee Increases (Effective April 1, 2024)
• USCIS Announces F-1 Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, and STEM OPT Extension Premium Processing Fees Increase (Effective February 26, 2024)
• USCIS General Online Filing Information webpage
• USCIS Introduces Online Filing for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization Resources:
  • Overview of myUSCIS for Applicants webpage (May 5, 2021)
  • USCIS Ombudsman’s Webinar Series, Updated Questions & Answers webpage (May 5, 2021), and Webinar Series Slides (April 2021)
  • Engagement Readout for F-1 Students Seeking Optional Practical Training webpage (May 5, 2021)
  • USCIS Online Filing and Customer Service Tools, PowerPoint presentation, and Q&A webpage (March 31, 2021)
  • USCIS Original Announcement regarding the Online Filing for Form I-765

DHS & ICE Resources:

• DHS Working in the United States webpage
• DHS Practical Training Hub webpage
• ICE Travel webpage

Back to Top

Disclaimer: The information on this webpage is for MIT students only. For additional questions, students should email their ISO Advisor directly.

Back to Top