Also

Severe Economic Hardship Application Process

You must apply for Employment Authorization from USCIS with the assistance of the Director of International Program, Addy Spitzer.

Completed Form I-765 (please see form & instructions)
Copy of I-20 with severe economic hardship indication in the last page (obtain when meet with Addy Spitzer)
Two (2) full frontal view photos (please see photo sample)
Copy of I-94 Card (Arrival/Departure Card)
Copy of passport and U.S. visa
Application Fee: $340; check or money order payable to "USCIS"
Letter in English from your sponsor explaining the unexpected hardship (if applicable)
Student letter explaining the unforseen hardship situation, and why other employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient. If applicable, students should attach supporting documents, for example, proof of currency devalutation in student's home country
For renewal applicants, copy of all previous employment authorizaton cards

Processing time:

You can check the status of your OPT petition by typing your receipt number from your receipt (I-797c) in this link
If an EAD application has been in process for more than 90 days and no decision has been made, you may apply to BCIS for a 240-day grant of interim employment authorization. If you do not receive your EAD within 90 days of the date your Notice of Action gives as the “Received Date,” contact your International Student Advisor (please see Obtain temporary OPT/EAD card for more information).