West Texas A&M

Optional Practical Training

Optional practical training (OPT) is defined in the regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student's major area of study." Optional practical training can be authorized at the following times:

  • During the student's annual vacation and at other times when school is not in session if the student is currently enrolled and eligible, and intends to register for the next term or session.
  • While school is in session, provided that it does not exceed 20 hours per week.
  • After completion of the course of study. Students may apply 120 days prior to degree completion date or up to 50 days after degree completion.

Students should apply at least two months prior to the desired start date of employment. This will allow enough time for the U.S. Custom and Immigration Service (USCIS) to issue the employment authorization document.

Characteristics of F-1 optional practical training (OPT)

  • Students must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis at a BCIS approved school for one academic year before being eligible for OPT. It is important to know that auditing courses or enrolling in correspondence courses do not fulfill full-time student status requirements. The student must be in valid F-1 status at the time of application.
  • OPT is available both before and after completion of the educational objective, but different rules apply to pre- and post completion OPT. Students in English language training programs are not eligible for OPT.
  • Students may engage in OPT for any employer for the duration of OPT authorization; as long as the employment qualifies under OPT standards.
  • Part-time OPT is deducted from the 12-month post completion OPT limit at 50%.
  • 20 hours-per-week limit for pre-completion OPT can be done while school is in session and student still has coursework to complete.
  • Over 20 hours-per-week can be requested for pre-completion OPT finished during official school breaks or after student has completed all coursework required for the educational objective. For post-completion OPT, only full-time OPT can be requested.
  • Must be directly related to and commensurate with the level of the student's course of study.
  • No offer of employment is required, but the student is expected to work or be seeking employment. Pre-completion OPT is not regained even if student did not work.
  • Prior use of full-time curricular practical training for one year or more eliminates eligibility for optional practical training. Use of part-time CPT does not affect eligibility for OPT.
  • Must apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS with assistance of DSO (Designated School Official) before work begins. Students must apply to USCIS for post-completion OPT prior to completing their full course of study.

Students interested in applying for OPT should make an appointment with the International Student Office (ISO).

Please bring the following items with you to your appointment

  • Completed form I-765. Use the International Student Office address on #3 of the application form. The address is: WTAMU Box 60745, Canyon, TX  79016.
  • I-20 form, passport, form I-94 and copies of any previous EAD's (work cards).
  • Bank draft or money order for $340 made payable to: Department of Homeland Security.
  • Two passport size photos in a small envelope (full frontal) view.
  • Your name and I-94 admission number must be printed in on the back of the photos.
  • Do not cut photos.
  • Letter from academic adviser, academic dean or Graduate School (graduate students) to verify expected graduation or completion of course requirements.
  • Dates for OPT authorization: The OPT card is approved for specific beginning and end dates. You are required to submit a preferred beginning and end date for your OPT card.

OPT Frequently Asked Questions