Pre-Completion OPT

The information here is for enrolled International Students on F-1 visas.
Pre-Completion OPT is a work authorization used in limited circumstances primarily for students who have coursework remaining, have used 2 semesters of CPT and would like to work prior to graduation. If you still have coursework remaining, pre-completion OPT is limited to part-time (20 hours per week or less) during the fall and spring semesters and may be full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during non-required summer sessions or other official university breaks. Pre-completion OPT requires an OPT recommendation on page 2 of the I-20 from the Office of International Education before submitting your request to USCIS for approval.

OVERVIEW

  1. Request an updated I-20 with OPT authorization on page 2 from the Office of International Education by submitting the four forms/documents below to the OIE front desk. We recommend that you type the I-765. A sample of a filled I-765 is available here.
  2. Please allow up to 7 business days for processing. During that time, the OIE will issue a new I-20 and email it to your @mavs.uta.edu email address.
  3. After you have signed the I-20, you will need to mail your application to USCIS. See the eShipGlobal mailing instructions on the F-1 & F-1 Office procedures page here.
  4. The OIE will contact you when your card arrives. You may:
    • Pick up the card yourself.
    • Send an email authorizing a specific person to pick up the card for you.
    • Provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope for us to mail the card to you.

$470 for online filing or $520 for paper filing. Please consult the USCIS fee calculator on the day you mail the application to confirm current fees.

PRE-COMPLETION OPT