• a full-time F-1 student
• finished or will finish at least one full academic year
• completing a degree this semester
• otherwise maintaining F-1 status

First confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.

While there is an option for Pre-Completion OPT (before graduation), at UNA most F-1 students apply for Post-Completino OPT (OPT after graduation). The student must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using Form I-765 to be authorized. Since the application process takes 4 to 6 weeks, the ideal time to apply is prior to graduation, the earlier the better. If approved, the student will receive an employment authorization document (EAD).

The maximum amount of time granted to work on F-1 OPT status is 12 months per degree level. Depending on when the student applies and when USCIS grant approval, it can be less than 12 months.

Students will degrees in STEM fields can apply again for a 2-year extension.

No. F-1 students do not need a job to apply for your initial OPT. In fact, each student has 90 days of unemployment in which to find a job or changes jobs during the year. The 90 days begins on the first day of the work authorization.

You may file an application up to 90 days prior to your Program End Date (your graduation date becomes your program end date when you apply for graduation) and no later than 60 days after your Program End Date. When we are preparing your application, you will ask for a specific start date for your work authorization. You can choose a start date from a range of dates that begins the day after graduation and ends 60 days after graduation. You cannot request a start date more than 60 days after graduation. If your application does not receive approval by the date that you requested, USCIS will move your start date to the same date on which they approve your application. 

Think about what plans you have immediately after graduation. Do you want to relax? Will you go home for a visit? Do you need time to move? Then count back at least 8 weeks and begin gathering documents and filling out the application.

Since the application process takes 4 to 6 weeks, the ideal time to apply is prior to graduation. In fact, the earlier the better. You can apply early and request a start that suits your plans.

USCIS charges $410 USD. This fee must accompany your application. UNA does not charge a fee for OPT services before or after graduation.

Yes. Travel while your application for OPT is pending and during the work authorization period is allowed by law. However, some F-1 students find that when they return to the U.S., they are questioned at the Port of Entry. Talk with your DSO before travel to see how to anticipate and answer these questions. Always carry in your wallet or bag the most current evidence of your F-1 status and OPT application.

Read more here: https://www.ice.gov/sevis/travel 

Unfortunately, you can't do much. USCIS has a large number of applications and they process them on a first-come, first-served basis. You can use your Receipt Number to check for updates on the USCIS website. After 90 days, you can file a request for an update through the USCIS website, but those requests are also processed slowly.

Be patient. Approval is coming.

Don't worry! You have status to remain in the U.S.A. while you are waiting for a response to the application. Also, your unemployment hasn't started yet. USCIS will change the start date to the date when they approve your application. That starts the 90 days of unemployment.

In Alabama, you must have at least 160 days on your status to get or renew a Drivers License. You must wait until you receive your EAD to apply for a renewal. In the U.S.A., Drivers Licenses are issued by each state so if you move to a different state, the laws will likely be different.