Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training allows eligible F-1 students at Avila University Arizona to work in the U.S. in a job directly related to their major field of study, either before or after completing their degree.
OPT provides valuable professional experience that complements academic coursework and prepares students for long-term career success.

OPT is a type of employment authorization that gives F-1 students up to 12 months of work experience per academic level (i.e., bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs).
Students in eligible science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Authorized by USCIS

Unlike CPT, OPT is approved by USCIS. Students must apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before starting a post-completion work placement.

You may not begin your employment until you have received your EAD card and reached the start date listed on it.

Types of OPT

• Pre-Completion OPT:
  • Available while you are still enrolled in your degree program.
  • Limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session.
• Post-Completion OPT:
  • Begins after you complete your program of study.
  • Allows full-time employment for up to 12 months.
• STEM OPT Extension:
  • Available for eligible STEM graduates employed by an E-Verify company.
  • Provides an additional 24 months of work authorization.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for OPT, you must:

• Be in valid F-1 status.
• Have completed one full academic year of study on F-1 status.
• Be pursuing employment directly related to your major field of study.
• Not have completed more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the same degree level.

Application Timeline

• Apply up to 90 days before your program end date.
• Apply no later than 60 days after your program completion.
• USCIS processing takes approximately 2–3 months — apply early to avoid delays.

Download the OPT Request Form from your MyAUA Student Portal under the Student Forms tab.

Step 1: Meet with your DSO to discuss your OPT plans and eligibility.
Step 2: Receive your new Form I-20 with the OPT recommendation.
Step 3: File Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS.
Step 4: Wait for your EAD card to arrive.
Step 5: Begin employment only after the start date on your EAD.

Reporting Requirements

While on OPT (or STEM OPT), you must report within 10 days any change in:

• Employer name or address
• Employment status
• Residential address

Use the SEVP Portal or contact your DSO to keep your SEVIS record up to date.

Unemployment Limits

• During post-completion OPT, you may not accrue more than 90 days of unemployment.
• If you later transition to STEM OPT, your combined limit becomes 150 days.

Tips for Success

• Keep copies of all forms and receipts submitted to USCIS.
• Continue maintaining your F-1 status during OPT.
• Contact your DSO immediately if your employment changes or you plan to travel.