A-State

Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students is intended to provide hands-on practical work experience complimentary to the academic program. An F-1 student (excluding ESL) is eligible for a maximum of 12 months of OPT. This benefit is available to students who have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year. The practical training sought by the student must be directly related to his or her current field of study and commensurate with his or her current education level.

There are four kinds of OPT: Pre-Completion, Post Completion, STEM Extension, and Cap Gap Extension.

Pre-Completion OPT

Students who have been lawfully enrolled full time for at least 1 academic year may be eligble to apply for pre-completion OPT. This is OPT that is done before a student graduates. Students may want to use this option if they are not eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or to gain experience before graduating. Students must complete all documents and requirements before making an appointment with the Student Immigration Specialist to request OPT.

The related files for pre-completion OPT can be found below:

OPT Checklist
Rules and Regulations
Acknowledgement of Rules

OPT Request Form
Form I-765 Instructions
Form I-765 Example

Post Completion OPT

Students who are graduating with a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate degree from ASU may be eligible to apply for OPT. Students must complete all documents and requirements before making an appointment with the Student Immigration Specialist to request OPT.

The related files for post-completion OPT can be found below:

OPT Checklist
Rules and Regulations
Acknowledgement of Rules
OPT Request Form

OPT Quiz
I-765 Instructions
I-765 Example

REMEMBER

Students are responsible for maintaining their own immigration status at all times.

Please remember as you review the information on this page:

This information is susceptible to change.
This information is not an exhaustive list pertaining to enrollment requirements.
For additional information regarding enrollment requirements, students can visit: www.ice.gov, www.uscis.gov, or speak with the international programs office.

Students are responsible at all times for properly informing the DSO of their immigration status and academic status (as pertaining to immigration matters).