Imagine graduating from a top university in the United States and having the opportunity to kick-start your career in one of the most powerful economies in the world. That dream can become a reality if you receive U.S. post-completion employment authorization. While this is often called a post-graduation work visa, the main option for F-1 international students is Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is temporary employment authorization related to a student’s major field of study. It is a crucial pathway for many international students who aspire to gain work experience, expand their professional network, and explore their career options in the land of opportunity.
In this article, we’ll explore how to apply for post-completion OPT in the U.S. and the benefits it offers to international students seeking to pursue their dreams.
Eligibility Criteria for a USA Post-Graduation Work Visa
To be eligible for post-completion OPT in the U.S., international students must meet certain criteria, listed below:
- You must be an F-1 student who has been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at an SEVP-certified U.S. college, university, conservatory, or seminary.
- You must maintain valid F-1 status and request an OPT recommendation from your Designated School Official (DSO).
- For post-completion OPT, USCIS may receive your Form I-765 up to 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after your program end date. USCIS must also receive the application within 30 days of the date your DSO enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS and issues your OPT Form I-20.
- Any employment during OPT must be directly related to your major area of study.
- Standard OPT is generally available for up to 12 months per higher degree level. Eligible students with qualifying STEM degrees may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing up to 36 months of total post-completion employment authorization.
To avoid problems, consult your school’s international student office or DSO before filing. For legal advice, consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney. You should also check the latest USCIS and Study in the States guidance before submitting an application.
Steps on Applying for a U.S. Post-Graduation Work Visa
The main U.S. post-graduation work option discussed in this article is Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is not a separate visa; it is employment authorization for eligible F-1 students. Pre-completion OPT can be part-time while school is in session and may be full-time when school is not in session. Post-completion OPT takes place after program completion and requires USCIS approval and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). To apply for OPT, follow these steps:
Step 1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for OPT, confirm that you are maintaining a valid F-1 status, have completed at least one full academic year of study, and are eligible for OPT at your current education level. After post-completion OPT begins, you may not exceed 90 days of unemployment during the standard 12-month OPT period.
Step 2. Apply for OPT
To apply for OPT, first request an OPT recommendation from your school’s international student office or DSO. Your DSO will enter the recommendation in SEVIS and issue a Form I-20 with the OPT recommendation. After receiving the OPT Form I-20, file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Many F-1 students can file Form I-765 online through a USCIS online account.
Step 3. Pay the Fee
There is a fee associated with Form I-765. As of the current USCIS fee schedule, the Form I-765 fee is $470 for online filing and $520 for paper filing. Fees can change, so always check the USCIS Fee Schedule before submitting your application. Premium processing, if available and requested with Form I-907, requires a separate additional fee.
Step 4. Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you must wait for USCIS to process it. Processing times vary by form category and workload, so check the USCIS processing times tool for the latest estimate. You may not begin OPT employment until USCIS approves your Form I-765, you receive your EAD, and the start date shown on the EAD has arrived.
Step 5. Begin Working
Once you receive approval for OPT and your EAD start date has arrived, you can begin working in the United States. Standard post-completion OPT is available for up to 12 months. If you earn a qualifying STEM degree and meet the STEM OPT requirements, you may be able to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension.
It is important to note that there are some restrictions associated with OPT. You do not need a job offer to apply for initial post-completion OPT, but all work you do during OPT must be directly related to your major field of study. While on post-completion OPT, you must work at least 20 hours per week or full-time, report required employment and address changes to your DSO or through the SEVP Portal within 10 days, and follow your school’s reporting instructions. STEM OPT has additional requirements, including a qualifying STEM degree, a completed Form I-983 training plan, and employment with an E-Verify employer.
Required Documents for a U.S. Post-Graduation Work Visa
Here are some of the common documents and credentials that international students may need when applying for OPT or a STEM OPT extension in the U.S. Requirements can vary by filing category, so follow the latest USCIS Form I-765 instructions and your school’s guidance.
| OPT APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS |
|---|
| Form I-20 with an OPT or STEM OPT recommendation issued by your DSO |
| Completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and the correct USCIS filing fee |
| Most recent Form I-94, passport biographical page, and other evidence of F-1 status or identity requested in the Form I-765 instructions |
| Evidence of any previous EAD, CPT, or OPT authorization, if applicable |
| For STEM OPT only: proof of a qualifying STEM degree, such as a diploma or transcript |
| For STEM OPT only: completed Form I-983 training plan with an eligible employer enrolled in E-Verify |
| Photo or biometrics requirements as directed by USCIS; since December 12, 2025, USCIS no longer uses self-submitted photographs for secure identity documents and may require a biometrics appointment |
FAQs: Post-Graduation Work Visa Applications for the USA
What is the Process for Extending a Post-Graduation Work Visa to the USA?
The main extension option is the 24-month STEM OPT extension. To qualify, you must be in an active period of post-completion OPT, have a qualifying STEM degree, work in a position directly related to that STEM degree, and have an employer that is enrolled in E-Verify and willing to complete Form I-983 with you. You must request a STEM OPT recommendation from your DSO, receive a new Form I-20 with the STEM OPT recommendation, and file Form I-765 with USCIS before your current OPT expires. USCIS may receive a STEM OPT application up to 90 days before your current OPT EAD expires, and it must receive the application within 60 days of the DSO’s STEM OPT recommendation. Students may receive up to two lifetime STEM OPT extensions, but the second must be based on a different qualifying STEM degree at a higher education level.
How Can You Find a Job in the U.S. as an International Student?
To find a job in the United States as an international student, start early and use networking opportunities, such as connecting with alumni, attending events, and using social media. Research companies in your field of interest and identify those that have experience hiring international employees. Use your university’s career center, job search platforms, and professional associations, and stay informed about the latest trends in your industry. Developing in-demand skills is also crucial to making yourself more attractive to employers. Before accepting work, confirm that the role meets OPT or STEM OPT requirements and is related to your field of study.
Overall, by obtaining U.S. employment authorization, you can broaden your horizons, expand your network, and enhance your resume, opening doors to exciting career opportunities. While the OPT application process can be daunting, following the steps outlined in this article can simplify the process and increase your chances of success. With determination and perseverance, you can make your dreams of working in the U.S. a reality and create a bright future for yourself.
Hopefully, this article on how to apply for post-graduation work authorization in the U.S. was informative and helpful. Feel free to visit our Study in the USA and Available Programs for International Students sections for more information about the different universities and scholarship opportunities in the USA!
