Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Purpose

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization benefit for F-1 students who have been maintaining F-1 status in the U.S.
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reviews and approves OPT applications. See the current filing fee at Fee Schedule | USCIS. The average processing time is around 90 - 120 days. Premium Processing option is available.
• USCIS will mail students an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card once their OPT application is approved. The EAD is the student's official work authorization in the U.S.
• Eligible students can apply to receive 12 months of OPT for each degree level completed in the U.S.

Types of OPT

• Part-time: Students are allowed to work less than 20 hours per week
• Full-time: Students are allowed to work more than 20 hours per week

Students may be eligible to participate in OPT in two different ways:

Students must meet the following criteria in order to be eligible to apply for OPT:

• Be in valid F-1 status
• Be physically in the U.S. 
• Has a valid passport
• Fulfilled one-year full-time requirement.
  • Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year (two consecutive academic semesters) in the U.S. prior to their proposed OPT start date (excluding Summer and Winter session)
• Have not completed more than 365 days of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT), nor have been approved for 12 months of OPT at the current degree level
• Meet the "when to apply" time frame 

Attention

• Students do not need a valid F-1 visa, job offer, or Social Security Number to apply for OPT
• Students seeking credential/certificate programs should enroll in all courses before their last degree requirement. No academic course enrollment is allowed during OPT.

When to Apply

Here is a glance of the typical timeline from the day a F-1 student begins their Post-OPT request to the approval date and beyond:

Phase 1: During students' last semester

1. Student reviews OPT resources and completes quiz
2. Student downloads OPT Request Form and chooses a start date
3. Student emails OPT Request form to Academic Advisor/Graduate Advisor for signature to verify graduation
4. Student receives signed OPT Request form from Academic Advisor/Graduate Advisor

Phase 2: By the "first day to request OPT recommendation" date

1. Student emails signed OPT Request form to f1@sfsu.edu
2. Student prepares OPT Application while waiting for new I-20
   • F-1 advisors prepare OPT Requested I-20 (10 business days)
3. Student files for OPT requests on USCIS website
4. Student receives OPT application digitally pending receipt (immediately after filing and paying online)
5. Student receives OPT application paper pending receipt (4-8 weeks after online file)
6. Student receives OPT approval notice (60-120 days from online file date)
7. Student receives Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (within 2-3 weeks after approval notice)
8. Student receives Social Security Number (SSN) (within 2 weeks after EAD received date)

The F-1 international student advisors cannot guarantee the USCIS process timeline

Phase 3: OPT/EAD start date begins

1. Student receives SEVP Portal log in directly from SEVP
2. Student creates a SEVP Portal log in
3. Student begins work & reports employment on SEVP portal within 10 days
   • Otherwise begin counting unemployment days
4. (if applicable) Student applies for STEM OPT 90 days before OPT end date

Phase 4: OPT/EAD end date

1. Student is on 60 day grace period
2. Student leaves the U.S. or transfers out
3. Student F-1 status is completed at SFSU

How to Calculate Unemployment Days

USCIS typically authorizes a 12 month Post-OPT period (may be less depending on process time). Out of the OPT valid dates per the EAD, students cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment days overall.

"If EAD is valid from 7/30/2021 to 7/29/2022, students can't be unemployed for more than 90 days between 7/30/2021 to 7/29/2022."

• Unemployment days start counting from the actual EAD "valid" start date if no employment is reported on the SEVP portal on day 1
  • It does NOT start counting from the day the student applied for OPT
  • It does NOT start counting from the initial requested OPT start date (if different from EAD start date)
  • It does NOT start counting from the semester finals end date
  • It does NOT start counting from the program end date on their I-20
  • It does NOT start counting while OPT is pending
  • It does NOT start counting if OPT is approved and EAD is received before EAD valid start date
  • Any days of unemployment throughout the whole EAD valid dates are counted, NOT just the first 90 days of OPT.
  • Any days of unemployment throughout the whole EAD valid dates are counted, including any days between an offer letter and the actual future employment start date.
    • For example, if a student has an EAD start date on August 1 and they receive a job offer letter on August 5 for a August 20 start date. The student will use up 19 days of unemployment (from August 1 to August 19).
  • Any days of unemployment between job changes are counted towards unemployment days
  • Any days without employment reported on SEVP portal are counted towards unemployment
    • If a student forgets to report their employment on the SEVP portal, the days are counted as unemployment days

Number of Hours Per Week

• If authorized Post-OPT, students must work at least 20 hours per week in a position that is directly related to their major of study,
• Students must report their employment in SEVP Portal to be considered employed and have maintained F-1 status.

Exceeding Unemployment Days

If students accumulate 90 days or more of unemployment, they are in violation of their F-1 status & OPT status

• The OPT authorization will be automatically terminated by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
  • SEVP portal calculates unemployment days based on SEVP portal reporting. If a student forgets to report their employment, their records may be automatically terminated if the number of days of "unemployment" exceeds 90 days
  • Since the termination is done by SEVP, they will receive an email notification from SEVP, not from the F-1 international student advisors.

Students who exceed 90 days of unemployment days do not have access to the 60 day grace period.

• To avoid violating F-1 status and termination of SEVIS record, prior to reaching the 90-day unemployment limit, students should depart the U.S., or transfer their SEVIS record to another school.
• Students should email f1@sfsu.edu with the specific date they left the U.S. and request the F-1 international student advisors to end their OPT before exceeding unemployment days.

Relation to Major

• Student jobs must be related to their current major(s), not minor. It is their responsibility to be able to connect their OPT job to their major. If the relationship between their job and their major(s) is called into question by SEVP in the future, the burden of proof is on them to demonstrate the relationship.
• The F-1 international student advisors will not be able to advise students on specifically what jobs do/do not qualify as advisors who are not experts in their field of study. They may visit the Career & Leadership Development. 
• It is recommended that students maintain evidence for each job: the position held, duration of that position, the job title, contact information of their supervisor or manager, and a description of the work.  Students can also have multiple OPT employment but all of them must be related to their major.

Types of Employment Allowed

• Paid employment: Students may work part-time or full-time
   
• Multiple employers: Students may work for more than one employer, but all employment must be related to their major.
   
• Short-term multiple employers (performing artists): Musicians and other performing artists may work for multiple short-term employers (gigs). The student should maintain a list of all gigs, dates, and duration. If requested by DHS, students must be prepared to provide evidence showing a list of all gigs.
   
• Work for hire: This is also commonly referred to as 1099 employment where an individual performs a service based on a contractual relationship rather than an employment relationship. If requested by DHS, students must be prepared to provide evidence showing the duration of the contract periods and the name and address of the contracting companies.
   
• Self-employed business owner: Students may start a business and be self-employed. In this situation, students must work full-time. They must be able to prove that they have the proper business licenses and are actively engaged in a business related to their major.
   
• Employment through an agency: Students must be able to provide evidence showing they worked an average of at least 20 hours per week while employed by the agency.
   
• Unpaid employment: Students may work as volunteers or unpaid interns, and this does not violate any labor laws. If requested by DHS, students must be able to provide evidence from the employer that they worked at least 20 hours per week during the period of employment.

Types of Employment NOT Allowed

• Employment not related to a student's major
   
• On-campus "Student" Employment
  • When recommending OPT, the F-1 international student advisors shorten the program end date on the I-20 to reflect OPT applicants’ degree program completion. F-1 students cannot pursue on-campus employment beyond the I-20 end date.
  • Graduate students who are still working on Culminating Experiences but have applied for OPT will also have shortened I-20s, therefore, cannot presume on-campus employment after the program end date on the I-20.

Before Applying or Accepting a Job Offer

• Students should review the “SEVP Portal and OPT Reporting Examples” for the OPT reporting template and imagine how they would be reporting the job to SEVP, such as what would they be doing based on the job description and which classes they would use as your examples to justify the relationship between the job and their major.
• F-1 advisors are not experts in a student's field or major, only the student themselves can make this justification between a job and major to USCIS. If a student is not confident in the connection between the job and their major, they may want to reconsider applying for or accepting the job.

Start Dates:

Students may not receive a full 12 months of OPT if they apply for OPT less than 30 days before the "Grades Available on SF State Gateway" or USCIS process time delays the OPT start date.

Things to consider for Post-Completion OPT start dates:

• Graduation

  • Will the student graduate? If a student applies for post-OPT and learns they cannot graduate, they will need to withdraw their post-OPT application (if eligible) and apply again (and pay again) when they are actually graduating. Students should not withdraw their post-OPT application before speaking with an F-1 Advisor.
  • Students who do not know if they will pass their courses should wait to apply for their post-OPT.

• Job Offer

  • Does the student have a job offer with a specific start date? If not, how long do they expect their job search process to take?

• Wait Time

  • Will the USCIS time cut into the requested OPT start date? If so, students may lose OPT days and will not receive the full 12 months.

• Finances

  • If a student chooses a later start date, and the OPT is approved early, the student may not begin working until the EAD start date has begun. Does the student have enough funds to afford a longer break between school and employment?

• Insurance

  • Students are not required to purchase school insurance while on post-OPT. However, if a student is interested in purchasing insurance, they must submit the request within 30 days of the current student insurance end date. If students are hoping to have insurance coverage through an employer, but choose a later start date, they would have a gap in insurance coverage.

F-1 advisors cannot decide on a start date for a student since it depends on a student's personal circumstances. Students are encouraged to review the questions above and other considerations before deciding.

End Dates:

• Post Completion OPT end dates are based on desired start dates. It is automatically calculated as 1 day before, one year later. For example, if a student chooses July 15, 2021, as their start date, their end date will be July 14, 2022.
• If a student has used pre-completion OPT days, they will need to deduct the number of approved pre-completion OPT dates from the post-completion OPT dates.

1. Review the OPT resources above carefully
   • Understand the OPT responsibilities
      
2. Complete the mandatory OPT quiz
   • The purpose of the quiz is to test students' knowledge of OPT and remind students of their responsibilities.
   • There is no minimum score requirement.     
      
3. Keep a note of the date of completion to fill OPT request form

1. Download the OPT Authorization Request form (PDF, 170KB)
    
2. Fill out
   • Page 1: "Student Information" and "OPT Request"
     • Choose a desired OPT start date - see "Choose OPT Start & End Dates" resource above.
   • Page 2: "Applicant Requirements and Responsibilities" & "Acknowledgement and Student Signature"
   • We accept digital signatures, scanned copies, and high-resolution/clear pictures of the completed form and documents.
      
3. Reach out to an Academic Advisor to obtain a signature on the OPT Request form to confirm graduation. 
   • F-1 Advisors are not academic advisors and cannot verify if students are eligible to graduate. Academic Advisor signatures are required on the OPT Request form.
   • We accept digital signatures, scanned copies, and high-resolution/clear pictures of the completed form and documents.
     • Graduate students: Contact your Graduate Coordinator
     • Undergraduate students: Contact the Undergraduate Advising Center

1. Once the student has received their academic advisor/graduate advisor signature, email the form with both signatures (student & academic advisor) to f1@sfsu.edu from their SFSU email account (after the "first day to request OPT recommendation" date)

   ATTENTION: Do not email this request to oip@sfsu.edu 
    

2. An F-1 international student advisor will review the student's request. If eligible, they will be issued an OPT Requested I-20 within 10 business days. The OPT requested I-20 end date will be automatically shortened to the current semester program end date for Post-Completion OPT applicants.
    
3. While a student is waiting for their "OPT Requested I-20", they should begin to prepare Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
   • The CIP code on the I-20 will show a major code that is best matched with the USCIS database. Concentration will not be included. For example, Business Administration majors with a concentration in Marketing will show as Business Administration, General.

File Form I-765 Online

• USCIS has authorized students to file for Post Completion OPT (C)(3)(B) online.  
• We recommend that OPT applicants use their personal email address when creating an account with USCIS, rather than their SFSU student email address, as SFSU student email accounts will be deactivated approximately one year after graduation.
• See the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization Instructions (Link to Google slides)

Additional Resources

• USCIS Form I-765
• How to create a USCIS online account
• Tips for filing online

Premium Processing

There is a fee to request this service. If you request premium processing, USCIS guarantees that they will take adjudicative action on the case within the time periods described in How Do I Request Premium Processing? | USCIS.

I-797C Notice of Action

• USCIS will provide the OPT receipt right after an online file but will also mail a paper I-797C notice to the student's address. The receipt number (usually starts from “IOE”) is printed on the I-797C notice. If students do not receive any I-797C notice after mailing the application, request the receipt letter to be sent to the student by using the USCIS online tools.

Request for Evidence (RFE)

• If there is a problem with the application, USCIS will send a “Request for Evidence (RFE)” to ask for more supporting documentation. An RFE does not mean that the OPT application has been rejected. It simply means that you need to provide the missing documents before your EAD can be issued.
• Your OPT application will be denied if you fail to respond to the RFE by the deadline given by USCIS. USCIS strongly encourages applicants to provide the requested evidence electronically through their USCIS online account. You should not mail your response to USCIS if you are responding online. In other words, do not respond twice.
• Receiving an RFE will delay the processing of your OPT application. Reach out to F-1 international student advisor before responding to the RFE.

We recommend that students update their “preferred Email” in the Student Center to a personal email address instead of their SFSU student email. SFSU student email accounts are deactivated approximately one year after graduation. 

Once you update your “preferred Email” to a personal email, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will send important updates and information to that email account. To avoid missing important messages from SEVP, please make sure to check your personal email regularly after graduation. 

Case Status

• Students can check the status of their OPT application by entering their receipt number at USCIS' check your case status.

  • The receipt number (usually starts from “IOE”) is provided after the online file and printed on the I-797C notice.

• The typical updates on the case status are:

  • Your case has been received
  • You have been sent an RFE (not common)
  • Your RFE has been received (only if an RFE was requested)
  • Your case has been approved
  • Your EAD has been mailed

Process Time

The standard processing time for USCIS to approve and mail the EAD is 60 - 120 days or longer. 

Applicants may request premium processing. If applicants request and pay for premium processing, USCIS guarantees that they will take adjudicative action on the case within the time periods described in How Do I Request Premium Processing? | USCIS.

• See current USCIS Service Center Form processing time.
• To check processing time:
  • Choose "I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization"
  • Choose "Based on request by a qualified F-1 academic student [(c)(3)]"
  • Choose "Potomac Service Center"
• Enter your receipt date, choose "get inquiry date"
  • The website will provide the next steps if you are eligible to submit an "Outside Normal Processing Time" inquiry.

• While OPT is pending, students are invalid F-1 status to wait in the U.S.

  • Students are not using their 60-day grace period while OPT is in pending status.
  • Students are not using their 90-day unemployment days while OPT is in pending status.

Special Cases

• Non-Properly Filed Applications

  • If a student's application is returned/rejected by USCIS for any reason, they must contact f1@sfsu.edu as soon as possible to request a new OPT requested I-20. Students must send the new I-20 with their OPT application to USCIS immediately!  Their prior OPT requested I-20 will not be valid to be re-sent to USCIS.

• Withdraw Applications

  • If a student wishes to withdraw their application for any reason, they must contact f1@sfsu.edu as soon as possible to discuss how to maintain their F-1 status. Students should not withdraw their application before speaking with an F-1 international student advisor.

Making Sure Students Are Eligible to Graduate

• Do not forget to apply for graduation!
  • Undergraduate students apply through the Registrar's Office. Contact the college-based student advising/resource/success centers (See Academic Advising Directory) 
  • Graduate students apply through Graduate Studies. Contact the graduate coordinators
     
• Update your Diploma Address on your Student Center (see Diploma Information)

International students are required to pursue full-time study in the programs indicated on their I-20s. It is possible to take additional classes for personal enrichment BEFORE students complete the program on their I-20, but not after. 

Save Copies of Academic Records

• SFSU Student emails are closed after a student graduates.
  • Students should ensure their preferred personal email is up to date in their Student Center.
  • Students should forward any information they would like to keep, such as address book information, course syllabus, projects, and papers.
  • Students should set up forwarding addresses or configure accounts that use SFSU student emails to forward to their personal email addresses.
     
• Students will lose access to their Student Services Center beyond one year after graduation.
  • Students should download copies of unofficial transcripts for personal reference.
  • Beyond one year after graduation, students must request official transcripts (payment required) if they wish to access transcripts.

Job Offer is Not Requreid for OPT Application

• Once a student's OPT is approved and the EAD start date has begun, there is a 90-day unemployment timeframe to find a job.
• While a student is waiting for their OPT approval, they may begin their job search and interview process. 
• F-1 students may accept employment before their OPT is approved and EAD has started but may not begin their work until the EAD start date.

Beware of Scams

• Students should be aware of potential job posting scams. We encourage students to use common sense and caution when applying for jobs. If a potential employer asks students to participate in an activity that makes them uncomfortable in any way, don't do it. If the benefit sounds too good to be true, ask questions and do research about this employer online before committing to anything.
• Review Career Services & Leadership Development’s Avoid Job Scams & Fraudulent Employer Disclaimer information.

Career Resources

• Career & Leadership Development provides resources for current students and alumni with their job search process. Services include but are not limited to:
  • Resume Review
  • Cover Letter Review
  • LinkedIn Review
  • Job Search Strategies
  • Interview Preparation
  • Networking
  • Job Fairs & much more!
• Click on the link to explore the resources and make an appointment with a career counselor.

Students who have pending I-765 must enter the U.S. with “PENDING” remark for OPT.

What Happens if my OPT is approved early?

• After reviewing her academic progress with her academic advisor, Jane is confident that she will pass all her classes and complete her studies. On February 18, Jane mails her application for Post-OPT to USCIS.  She is completing her program on May 18 and chooses June 30 as the OPT start date because she has a job offer beginning that day. She receives the EAD on May 15.  Jane's employer is pleased to see proof of the work permission early even though she cannot start working until June 30, as noted on the EAD. Jane is in legal F-1 status and can decide to stay in the U.S. or travel outside of the U.S. before her EAD start date. If Jane did not find a job yet, she is still in legal status to stay in the U.S. to find a job between May 15 to June 30. Her 90-day unemployment days would begin to count starting on June 30.

What Happens if my OPT is approved late?

• John does not have a job offer or time to search for one until after he finishes school.  He chooses the latest date possible to start his Post-Completion OPT -- July 17 -- which is the 60th day after his program completion date: May 18.  He knows that it will be legal to stay in the U.S. if he has submitted the OPT application on time.  John finally mails his OPT application on June 15. On July 17, John still hasn’t received his EAD, so he cannot work.  He receives his EAD on September 15 and it expires the following year on July 16 (14 months from May 18).  John has lost 2 months of his 12-month OPT because his application was submitted late and approved after the latest available OPT start date.

Rejected

• We recommend students file their OPT applications online. Online filing is typically not "rejected" since applications cannot be submitted until payment is processed.
   
• Rejected applications are for mail-in filing where physical mail is returned by the USCIS Lockbox prior to processing.
   
• Rejected applications are not considered properly filed, and do not establish or retain a filing date.
  • Examples of rejections: missing/incorrect payments attached to mail-in applications, and missing signatures on the I-765 paper file.
     
• If still within OPT eligibility period, the student may request a new OPT I-20 by contacting f1@sfsu.edu and resubmitting a new I-765 application and fee to USCIS.
  • Mail-in Applications returned for application fee issues appear to have a “case number” on the rejection notice. However, the OPT application has not been accepted/received.
     
• Students whose OPT application is rejected after the applicable filing deadline is closed (i.e., after the 60-day grace period) are not eligible to apply again. Students must either depart the United States or take other actions to preserve or re-establish status (such as applying for a new program and travel/re-entry or reinstatement). Students in this situation should consult an experienced immigration lawyer.

Denied

• Applications have undergone review by a USCIS adjudicator, and the adjudicator has found the applicant ineligible for benefits.
   
• Denied applications may be eligible to file Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion within an eligible timeframe.
   
• Students whose OPT application is denied after the applicable filing deadline is closed (i.e., after the 60-day grace period) are not eligible to re-file and must either depart the United States or take other actions to re-establish status. Students in this situation should consult an experienced immigration lawyer.

Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion

• The denial of Form I-765 cannot be appealed.
  • If the student believes that new facts or situations bear on the outcome of the decision, the student may consider filing a motion to reopen.
  • If the student believes that USCIS did not properly apply the law or policy to the facts, the student may consider filing a motion to reconsider.

Motion to Reopen

• Motions to reopen are filed on Form I-290B with the proper fee and must be signed by the student.
   
• Form I-290B instructions summarize the required bases for filing a motion to reopen.
   
• Students in this situation should consult an experienced immigration lawyer.

Motion to Reconsider

• If the denial is due to a USCIS error, a motion to reopen should not be filed.
  • Students should email the denial notice & a letter of explanation of the error to f1@sfsu.edu. We will forward the request to the USCIS Service Center to open the case internally.
  • Students should contact the CIS Ombudsman’s office for assistance
    • Note: that seeking internal resolution from USCIS Service Center does not stop the regulatory timeframe for filing a motion. The CIS Ombudsman’s Office generally advises filers to pursue USCIS’ appeal/motion options in conjunction with their outreach, to preserve that option. The student should be made aware of and consider both options carefully and consult an experienced immigration lawyer if needed.
       
• If re-filing the application is required, the student must request a new OPT I-20 by contacting f1@sfsu.edu and resubmitting a new I-765 application and fee to USCIS.

Students on Post-Completion OPT are not required to purchase SFSU pre-approved insurance. However, OPT students are eligible to purchase this plan as long as they purchase within 30 days of their previous insurance expiration date. For example, if their current insurance will end on August 9, they must purchase new coverage by September 8.

To Purchase OPT Insurance

Go to United HealthCare's student portal at https://www.uhcsr.com/sfsu. Follow the step-by-step instructions (Word, 64KB). 

Approval Notice

• USCIS will mail students an I-797 Notice of Approval (It is different from an I-797C notice) letter at their mailing address.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

• USCIS will mail students an EAD to their mailing address. Students will not be authorized to start working until they receive the EAD, and the “Valid Date” on the EAD has started.
• Students can start working from the "Valid From" date printed on their EAD. Students may not begin to work if they have received their approval notice but do not have their EAD card on hand.
• If an EAD card is lost or has an error, review the USCIS "Replace an EAD" resource.

Social Security Card

• (If applicable) if a student requested a SSN on the Form, I-765, the Social Security Administration would receive the information from USCIS and automatically issue a SSN for the OPT student.

SEVP Login Information 

• Once your EAD card start date begins, you will receive your SEVP Portal login via email. If you do not receive your login email within one week of your EAD start date, please email f1@sfsu.edu with: 

  • Your full name and SFSU ID

  • A request to "Send SEVP login email after OPT start date." 

• All students must create an SEVP Portal login as soon as they receive the email, even if they do not have a job yet. Note that the link in the email will expire if not used.  For more details, see the "SEVP Portal and OPT Reporting Examples" resources below. 

Lost EAD

Option 1:

• Students may check the mailing address accuracy on I-765 online file and open inquiry with the USCIS Contact Center using the USCIS Self-Service Online Tool at https://egov.uscis.gov/e-request/Intro.do
• When USCIS receives the returned card from USPS, they will reissue the card to the updated address.
• Students should allow 21 days for the card to be returned to USCIS, and an additional 30 days for re-issuance before re-inquiring with USCIS.
• If still not received 30 additional days after 2nd inquiry, students should contact USCIS for proof that the card has been returned to USCIS and then can file with the CIS Ombudsman to escalate re-issuance.
• The student CANNOT work during this time period.

Option 2:

• Students file new I-765 applications for replacement EAD.
• New I-765 and filing fees are sent to USCIS. Copies of the I-797 approval notice and I-20 showing the original OPT recommendation are sent as best practice.
• Students receive receipts for replacement card filing. Students may work up to 90 days with this I-797 receipt while awaiting replacement cards. (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/40-completing-section-2-form-i-9)

In all cases, the student’s address must be able to accept mail categorized as “first-class or higher”; students must be listed as physically residing there with USPS or have indicated the person living at the residence in the c/o mailing address on the I-765.

Correcting an Erroneous EAD

Mistakes may include name, birthday, start and/or end date. A typical error is an EAD end date that exceeds 12 months, or that ends more than the regulatory OPT completion limit of 14 months beyond the student’s program end date. Students should review dates for accuracy and correct any errors, even if the error appears to grant more than the regulatory permissible amount of time.

Option 1: If the typographical error is made by USCIS:

1. Student may submit a service request via the USCIS' website.
2. Follow directions received via email.
3. Student does not need to submit a new Form I-765 or a filing fee.
4. Student must return the erroneous EAD to 

   USCIS
   Lee’s Summit Production Facility
   Attn: I-765 Replacement Cards
   7 Product Way
   Lee’s Summit, MO 64002

It will take approximately 30 days from the date the card is received for USCIS to process the request and, if USCIS determines there is a USCIS error, to issue a new card.

Option 2: If the error is made by the student:

1. Students must apply for a replacement EAD card online
2. The new application includes:
   • New Form I-765 and Form I-765 filing fees online
   • Letter of explanation describing the error
   • Copy of incorrect original EAD
   • A new I-20/OPT recommendation is NOT required, as the OPT has already been approved.

If the student has an offer of employment, they may be able to complete the I-9 requirements with the incorrect EAD, depending on the specific error (such as birth date) and the requirements of the employer. If so, they can work while waiting for the replacement EAD if they can complete the I-9 process before returning the EAD.

OPT is an F-1 Benefit

• Even though post-OPT students are not attending classes, they are still in F-1 status while they are on post-OPT.  They are required to maintain their F-1 status to legally work in the U.S.

To Maintain F-1 Status

• Maintain Accurate Contact Information with SFSU
  • Students must ensure their contact information on the online Student Center is accurate, including their preferred email, mailing address, and phone, and check their personal email regularly. See the "Update Contact Information" resources below.
  • Students may contact the F-1 international student advisors at f1@sfsu.edu for travel & OPT-related advising.
  • Students do not need to report their employment to the F-1 international student advisors.
• Maintain Accurate Contact & Employment Information on SEVP Portal 
  • Students must report their personal contact and employment information directly to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) portal. See the " SEVP Portal and OPT Reporting Examples" resources below.
     
• Maintain employment 
  • Type of employment must follow regulations under "Types of Jobs Allowed Under OPT"
     
• Not exceed 90 days of unemployment days 
  • See the "90 Days Unemployment Limit and Consequence of Exceeding Limit" resources below

What is the SEVP Portal? 

The SEVP Portal is an online tool for students to report their employer information directly to USCIS. USCIS uses this tool to track a student’s OPT employment status. 

Key information about the SEVP Portal: 

• Students on OPT do not need to report employment to F-1 international student advisors. 

• Unemployment days are automatically calculated based on employment information entered in the portal. 

• Students will lose access to the SEVP Portal shortly after their EAD end date. 

• Students are encouraged to take screenshots and keep records of their employment history and SEVP reporting for personal record-keeping. 

When Will Students Create a Login? 

After the EAD start date begins, students will receive an email from SEVP (do-not-reply.sevp[at]ice.dhs.gov) at their “preferred Email” listed in their online Student Center. This email will include instructions and a special link to create an SEVP Portal account. 

Using the SEVP Portal, students can: 

• Report their U.S. address and phone number.

• Report and update employment information. 

Important Reminders: 

• All changes (address, phone, or employment) must be reported within 10 days. 

• If the SEVP login email is not received: 

  • Check your spam or junk mail folder. 

  • If the email is still not found, contact f1@sfsu.edu with: 

    • Full name 

    • SFSU student ID number 

    • OPT start date 

For more help, visit the SEVP Portal Help or the SEVP Portal Student User Guide on the Study in the States website. 

How to Report Employment? 

Students must use the SEVP Portal to report employment. Here’s how: 

• All jobs must relate to the student’s major. 

• If a student works multiple jobs, each position must be reported in the portal. 

• When a job ends, the employment end date must be updated in the portal. 

• Unemployment days are automatically calculated based on the information entered. 

We recommend using the provided employment reporting template to ensure accurate reporting. 

Requesting an Updated I-20 with Employer Information

• Students are not required to request an updated I-20 with employer information each time there is an employment change. The SEVP portal is used to track employment.
• A student who plans to stay in the U.S. will need an updated I-20 with the employer information only if an employer is specifically requesting to see an OPT-approved I-20 with the employer's name on it.

To request an updated, I-20 fill out the following request form:

Processing time

• Once an F-1 student submits a request through Qualtrics. The F-1 international student advisors will review their I-20 request and email them an updated I-20 within 5 business days.  
• Once an F-1 student receives their electronically signed I-20 over email, they must print the I-20 and physically sign it in blue ink to use the I-20 at the U.S. Port of Entry.

• This guidance permits international students' advisors/designated school officials (DSO) to electronically sign (digital signature) and email Form I-20 to F-1 students and any dependents. However, students must print out their digital I-20 and sign it to have a physical copy at the U.S. Port of Entry.

Preferred Email

• Students' "preferred email" on their online Student Center is also the email address listed on their SEVIS record. For example, if they select their SFSU student email as their 'preferred email,' the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will send important communications to their SFSU student email. Students are encouraged to update their preferred email to their personal email address to ensure they continue receiving important information from SEVP after graduation.

U.S. Address

• Students can change their U.S. address and phone number at SEVP Portal, but not their email address. Their email address at SEVP must be updated by the F-1 international student advisors.  Their SFSU student email will be discontinued after they graduate, therefore, we recommend students to update their address when they receive notification from ITS about their SFSU student email closure.    

Update Email on SEVP Portal

Step 1: 

Login to online student center. Change "Preferred" email address from their SFSU student email account to “Other”. Make sure the “Other” email is a desirable email to use for SEVP Portal.

Step 2: 

We will update students' email addresses in the SEVIS database in 24 hours.

Step 3: 

SEVP Portal will lock students' account and sends an email from "Do-not-reply.sevp[at]ice.dhs.gov" to their new email account with a temporary password

Step 4: 

Enter the new email address and temporary password to log in.  Students can reset their SEVP Portal password.

Students can also review the SEVP PORTAL: CHANGING YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS VIDEO on the Study in the States website.

How to Calculate Unemployment Days

• USCIS typically authorizes a 12-month post-OPT period (maybe less depending on process time). Out of the OPT valid dates per the EAD, students cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment days overall.
  • For example: "If EAD is valid from 7/30/2021 to 7/29/2022, students can't be unemployed for more than 90 days between 7/30/2021 to 7/29/2022."
     
• Unemployment days start counting from the actual EAD "valid" start date if no employment is reported on the SEVP portal on day 1 of the EAD start date
  • It does NOT start counting from the day the student applied for OPT
  • It does NOT start counting from the initial requested OPT start date (if different from the EAD start date)
  • It does NOT start counting from the semester finals end date
  • It does NOT start counting from the program end date on their I-20
  • It does NOT start counting while OPT is pending
  • It does NOT start counting if OPT is approved and EAD is received before EAD's valid start date
  • Any days of unemployment throughout the whole EAD valid dates are counted, NOT just the first 90 days of OPT
  • Any days of unemployment throughout the whole EAD valid dates are counted, including any days between an offer letter and the actual future employment start date.
    • For example, if a student has an EAD start date on August 1 and receives a job offer letter on August 5 for an August 20 start date. The student will use up 19 days of unemployment (from August 1 to August 19).
  • Any days of unemployment between job changes are counted towards unemployment days
  • Any days without employment reported on the SEVP portal are counted toward unemployment
    • If a student forgets to report their employment on the SEVP portal, the days are counted as unemployment days

Number of Hours Per Week

• If authorized post-OPT, students must work at least 20 hours per week in a position that is directly related to their major of study, report their employment in SEVP Portal to be considered employed, and have maintained F-1 status.

Exceeding Unemployment Days

• If students accumulate 90 days or more of unemployment, they are in violation of their F-1 status & OPT status
  • OPT authorization will be automatically terminated by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
    • SEVP portal calculates unemployment days based on SEVP portal reporting. If a student forgets to report their employment, their records may be automatically terminated if the number of days of "unemployment" exceed 90 days
    • Since the termination is done by SEVP, they will receive an email notification from SEVP, not from the F-1 international student advisors.
• Students who exceed 90 days of unemployment days do not have access to the 60-day grace period.
  • To avoid violating F-1 status and termination of SEVIS record, prior to reaching the 90-day unemployment limit, students should depart the U.S., or transfer their SEVIS record to another school.
  • Students should email f1@sfsu.edu with the specific date they left the U.S. and request the F-1 international student advisors to end their OPT before exceeding unemployment days.

Students on the 12-month post-completion OPT must enter the U.S. with an “APPROVED” remark for OPT.

Students on Post-Completion OPT are not required to purchase SFSU pre-approved insurance. 

However, OPT students are eligible to purchase this plan as long as they purchase within 30 days of their previous insurance expiration date. For example, if their current insurance will end on August 9, they must purchase new coverage by September 8.

To Purchase OPT Insurance

Go to United HealthCare's student portal at https://www.uhcsr.com/sfsu. Follow the step-by-step instructions (Word, 64KB). 

Students with incomes below the threshold indicated on VITA - Beta Alpha Psi Beta Chi Chapter - OPEN (sfsubap.org) can receive free tax assistance from VITA.

STEM major students may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Plan and apply 90 days before their OPT end date.  See the 24-Month STEM OPT Extension information page for eligibility and the application process.

If Students do not exceed their 90-day unemployment days, they have access to a 60-day grace period after the “Valid Until” date on the EAD. They must leave the U.S. or transfer to another school to continue their F-1 status within the grace period.

See Change Degree Level: Bachelors to Masters if students plan to pursue another program of study at SFSU.

If students wish to pursue study at a different U.S. institution, follow the I-20 Transfer Procedures instruction and request their SEVIS record/I-20 to be transferred to their new school.

No.  If their OPT application hasn't been approved, this means they do not have any authorization to work in the U.S.  Do not start working before they have the EAD in their hand.

Yes. Make sure to report their new employer at SEVP Portal.

No. When recommending OPT, the F-1 international advisors shorten the program end date on the I-20 to reflect the OPT applicant’s degree program completion. F-1 students can not pursue on-campus employment beyond the I-20 end date. Graduate students who are still working on Culminating Experiences but have applied for OPT will also have shortened I-20s, therefore, can not presume on-campus employment after the program end date on the I-20.

Students can apply for OPT and SSN together (on the I-765 form). Their SSN card should arrive within 7 business days after receiving the EAD. 

Do not enroll in any academic courses: Students can only take recreational/avocational classes (Yoga or Wine tasting classes…etc) while on post-OPT. They cannot enroll in any academic degree or certificate programs while on post-OPT.

If students plan to obtain a higher degree and their academic program will start before their OPT end date, students must request their SEVIS record to be transferred to their new schools. Their OPT will end on the date SFSU transfer their SEVIS record out.

Contact an F-1 international student advisor as soon as possible if students believe they will fail a class after they have applied for OPT.   In some cases, they may be able to withdraw their OPT application. In other cases, they will continue their OPT and work part-time, while they complete their studies. Their OPT time will not be extended.