OPT Application Procedures

Application Process

Required Documentation

• Form I-765. Please click here for the form and here for its instructions.
• New I-20 with endorsement by Director of International Students.
• Complete OPT Academic Certification with Academic Advising.
• A copy of your Form I-94, front and back, copy of previous I-20s. 
• Two “natural COLOR” photos. Please click here to access the picture instructions.
• A copy of your passport photo page, or your visa if it contains a photo of you. If your visa does not include a photo and you have a driver’s license with a photo, make a photo copy. 
• A copy of your previous EAD, if you have ever had one before. If you are applying for a renewal or replacement, check the box above Item 1 on the I-765 to indicate whether you are applying for “Replacement” or “Renewal of my permission to accept employment.” 
• Also, please print out the Permission Form and sign it in order to give the International Office permission to open mail from the Nebraska service center.

Reporting requirements while on OPT

• Please click here for reporting requirements while on OPT.

Additional Information

Application Fee: The cost of filling the I-765 is $340. Personal checks or money orders must be in the exact amount payable to USCIS. Personal checks are preferable to money orders, because they can more easily be traced in case of problems.

• 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 obtain work authorization by appearing in person at your local USCIS district office. You must bring proof of identity and any notices that you have received from USCIS in connection with your application for employment authorization. As an alternative to waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can now schedule an appointment through the USCIS internet based system, InfoPass. To access the system, visit this link. Use the InfoPass appointment scheduler and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. InfoPass generates an electronic appointment notice that appears on the screen. 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).  

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