With changes to Curricular Practical Training (CPT), we understand that many students are looking for alternative forms of authorization for off-campus training. As an alternative, we are seeing an increase in questions about Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).
What is Pre-Completion OPT?
Pre-Completion OPT is a form of optional practical training that can be utilized while you are still an active student. This type of work authorization requires USCIS approval. Once approved by USCIS, you receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) which serves as your work authorization for set dates. The EAD card allows you to participate in off-campus training related to your degree.
What are some benefits of Pre-Completion OPT?
There are some benefits of Pre-Completion OPT that are unique to this type of authorization, which makes it an appealing alternative to CPT for students. Some examples are:
- You do not need a job offer to apply.
- Once you have your EAD, you can work with multiple employers for the duration of your EAD as long as the work is related to your area of study.
- Pre-completion OPT does not require additional credit enrollment. While you are still required to maintain full-time enrollment during academic quarters, unlike CPT, there are no additional credit requirements.
What should I consider before applying for Pre-Completion OPT?
While Pre-Completion OPT shares a lot of features with CPT, it should not be considered a one-to-one equivalent. Here are some things you should consider before applying for Pre-Completion OPT.
- It requires USCIS approval. USCIS processing time is typically between 3-5 months, and the earliest you can submit your application is 90 days before your requested start date. Even with premium processing, we have seen USCIS processing frequently take 2-2.5 months after RFEs.
- The USCIS application (Form I-765) currently costs $470. If you are interested in premium processing with USCIS, that will cost an additional $1,780.
- Time spent on Pre-Completion OPT will be deducted from Post-Completion OPT. 2 months of full-time Pre-Completion OPT will reduce your Post-Completion OPT period by 2 months. Part-time pre-completion OPT is deducted at a .5 rate. For example, 2 months of part-time Pre-Completion OPT will reduce your Post-Completion OPT period by 1 month.
- You are limited to part-time work during academic quarters. Part-time for F-1 purposes is 20 hours per week or less.
- While you can be authorized to work full-time during academic breaks or during your vacation quarter, if you have been authorized for part-time Pre-Completion OPT, you cannot easily switch to full-time. You must submit a new application to USCIS and receive a new EAD to work full-time.
- Pre-completion OPT and post-completion OPT require two separate applications. If you plan to participate in post-completion OPT after graduation, you will need to submit another application to USCIS.
How can I apply?
Please review more about eligibility details and the application process on our webpage.