Eligibility and Types of OPT: Pre-Completion vs. Post-Completion

 Pre- vs. Post-Completion OPT: You are eligible for up to 12 months of OPT for each higher degree level obtained (e.g., one period after a bachelor's degree and another after a master's). Pre-completion OPT hours only reduce your post-completion allotment if they were full-time.

STEM OPT and the 24-Month Extension: The STEM OPT extension is a game-changer for eligible students. This extension requires a qualifying STEM degree, employment with an E-Verify employer, and a signed Form I-983 Training Plan that outlines bona fide supervision. DHS may conduct site visits to verify the training program. An individual may receive the STEM OPT extension twice in a lifetime (at different degree levels), and in some cases, a previously earned STEM degree may be used to qualify.

CPT and Its Impact on OPT Eligibility: Accruing 12 or more months of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the same degree level will render you ineligible for post-completion OPT. Part-time CPT does not affect OPT eligibility, making it a safer option if you're concerned about preserving your OPT period.

Obtaining Your OPT I-20: Your Designated School Official (DSO) must recommend OPT in the SEVIS database and issue you a new I-20. For post-completion OPT, USCIS must receive your Form I-765 no later than 60 days after your program end date and within 30 days of the DSO's recommendation. You may file up to 90 days before your program end date. File under category (c)(3)(B).

STEM Extension Filing Timeline: You must file for the STEM extension before your current OPT EAD expires, within 60 days of the DSO's STEM recommendation, and no earlier than 90 days before your EAD expires. The correct category is (c)(3)(C). A timely filed application grants an automatic 180-day work authorization extension while your case is pending.

I-765 Filing Fees and Premium Processing: The current I-765 filing fee is $470 for online filing or $520 for paper filing (as of April 1, 2024). Premium processing is available for F-1 OPT and STEM applications via Form I-907; USCIS aims for a 30-business-day processing timeline for these I-765 categories. Always verify current fees on the official USCIS website before filing.