How to Apply for OPT: I-765 Filing Window and Timing
Ask your DSO to recommend OPT, then file Form I-765 with USCIS within 30 days of that recommendation. For post-completion OPT, you can file from 90 days before your program end date until 60 days after it. Filing early in that window is safest, because you cannot work until your EAD arrives.
Every job is from an employer that filed H1Bs in 2025. See which ones fit your resume.
Step by step
- Check eligibility with your international office. You need one full academic year in F-1 status.
- Request OPT from your DSO and choose a requested start date.
- Your DSO enters the recommendation in SEVIS and issues an updated Form I-20.
- File Form I-765 online or by mail within 30 days of the recommendation, inside the filing window.
- Watch for a receipt notice and any biometrics appointment.
- Once approved, wait for the EAD start date before working. Set up your SEVP Portal account and report your employer.
The filing window
- Post-completion OPT: up to 90 days before your program end date, and no later than 60 days after it.
- Pre-completion OPT: up to 90 days before you complete a full academic year.
- Every OPT filing: within 30 days of your DSO's recommendation in SEVIS.
- STEM OPT extension: different rules. See the STEM OPT hub.
| Employer | H-1B filings | Transfers | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.Com Services LLC | 14,047 | 2,382 | $155k |
| Cognizant Technology Solutions US CorpGC frozen | 10,209 | 872 | $110k |
| Ernst & Young U.S. LLP | 9,808 | 269 | $143k |
| Google LLC | 7,899 | 844 | $186k |
| Microsoft CorporationGC frozen | 7,840 | 879 | $173k |
| Tata Consultancy Services LimitedGC frozen | 7,287 | 353 | $86k |
Choosing your start date
Your post-completion start date must fall within 60 days after your program end date. You get up to 12 months from the start date.
A later start date gives you more time to find work before the unemployment clock starts. But if USCIS approves late, your OPT may be shorter, because all OPT must end within 14 months of your program end date.
If you want to work right after graduation, file early and pick a start date close to your program end date.
Fees and premium processing
The I-765 fee for OPT has been $470 online and $520 by mail since the April 2024 fee rule. Confirm the amount on the USCIS fee schedule before you file.
Premium processing is available for OPT. USCIS says it acts within 30 business days. The fee rose from $1,685 to $1,780 on March 1, 2026.
Forms, photos and 2026 changes
As of October 2026, USCIS says to use the 08/21/25 edition of Form I-765. It is not accepting the 09/15/26 edition, which was tied to the duration of status rule a court blocked on September 14, 2026.
Since December 12, 2025, USCIS has moved to photos taken at its own Application Support Centers. You may get a biometrics appointment. Missing it can lead to denial. Follow the current USCIS instructions on photos.
DHS also proposed new OPT fees paid by schools on October 8, 2026. They are not in effect. See proposed OPT fees.
Should you apply at all?
For most graduates, yes. OPT gives you 12 months of work and a path to H-1B. It also keeps STEM OPT open if your degree qualifies.
Think twice if you are about to start a higher degree soon, since starting the new program ends OPT. While you wait for your EAD, you can interview and accept offers. See how to find a job on OPT.
This is general information, not legal advice. Confirm your situation with your DSO or an immigration attorney.
Questions
When can I apply for OPT?
For post-completion OPT, from 90 days before your program end date until 60 days after. You must also file within 30 days of your DSO's recommendation.
How much does OPT cost?
The I-765 fee is $470 online or $520 by mail. Premium processing costs $1,780 extra since March 1, 2026.
Can I job hunt while my OPT is pending?
Yes. You can apply, interview and accept offers. You cannot start work until your EAD is approved and its start date arrives.
What if my EAD arrives after my requested start date?
Your OPT starts later, and it still must end within 14 months of your program end date. Your employer may need to push back your first day.
Which I-765 edition should I use?
As of October 2026, USCIS accepts the 08/21/25 edition and is not accepting the 09/15/26 edition. Check uscis.gov/i-765 before you file.
Sources
- USCIS: Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students
- USCIS: Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Study in the States: F-1 Optional Practical Training (SEVIS Help Hub)
- USCIS: How Do I Request Premium Processing?
- UIC Office of International Services: Premium processing fee increase effective March 1, 2026
- University of Washington ISS: USCIS update on photo and biometrics requirements
- NAFSA: Legal challenge to the duration of status rule (updated Oct. 2, 2026)
