Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary work authorization that allows F-1 international students to gain practical experience in a job directly related to their major field of study before completing their academic program. Eligible students—those who have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year—may work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during official school breaks. Pre-completion OPT must be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and students must have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before starting work. Any time used for pre-completion OPT is deducted from the total 12 months of OPT eligibility, reducing the amount available for post-completion OPT after graduation.
- Must be in valid F-1 student status.
- Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year at a SEVP-certified school.
- Must be pursuing a degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level).
- Employment must be directly related to your major field of study.
- Must not have used 12 months or more of full-time Curricular Practical Training at the same academic level (CPT).
- Must apply to USCIS for authorization and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before starting work.
- May work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during official breaks during period of authorized OPT.
Step 1: Review the Pre-Completion OPT Training Module Prezi
Step 2: Prepare all necessary documents and review important links
- Pre-Completion OPT Checklist
- Soft copy of your valid passport, visa, or previously issued EAD card (only 1 required)
- PDF of your most recent I-94
- Digital passport photo *Review the Passport Photo Requirements
- Funds available to pay the USCIS filing fee by credit or debit card, or by checking or savings account
- Form I-20 with recommended OPT (issued upon approval of the OPT application)
- Guides & Handouts
- Helpful Links
Step 3: Proceed with your OPT Application
Step 4: Wait for an email from the Office of International Student Services
- Once your application and documents are received, please allow 5 – 7 business days for processing.
- If additional information is needed during the review process (including corrections to forms), the Office of International Student Services will send an email to your Marshall email account with the subject “REQUEST FOR INFORMATION.”
- Be sure to provide any necessary information within 10 days. Incomplete requests may be cancelled after 10 days.
- If approved, you will receive an email notification to your Marshall email account letting you know your new I-20 has been issued and you are ready to file Form I-765 online.
Step 5: Receive and sign your Form I-20 with recommended OPT
- Once the OPT Application is approved, you will receive a notification to your Marshall email with the Form I-20 attached. Be sure to sign the I-20 and save for your records. You will need the electronic Form I-20 to upload to the Form I-765 online.
Step 6: Complete Form I-765 Online
- Once your OPT is recommended in SEVIS by a DSO, you will be ready to file Form I-765 online with USCIS.
- File Form I-765
- View Form I-765 Guide
Step 7: Wait for your EAD card to arrive
- Once your application is submitted and the filing fee is paid online, you will be directed to a confirmation screen that shows your receipt number. You will be able to use the receipt number to check the status of your case on the USCIS website. Be sure to check your USCIS online account for updates to your case.
You will receive an email or text message with a case number which can be used to Check the Status of Your Case Online. USCIS processing times may vary. You must NOT begin working until the start date on the EAD card, if approved. If your case is denied, you will receive a denial notice.
USCIS may send you a REQUEST FOR EVIDENCE (RFE) through regular mail. While it is not common for students to receive a RFE when applying for Optional Practical Training, it does happen sometimes. If USCIS sends you a RFE, be sure to read it carefully and respond as soon as possible. Be sure to send a copy of the RFE to iss@marshall.edu.