International Student Services

Employment

Post-Completion OPT

[All information is subject to change without notice.]

Post-completion OPT provides for up to one year of practical training authorization after completion of studies. Students can apply up to 90 days before and up to 60 days after program completion. The UT Dallas ISSO recommends that students apply before completing their last semester of enrollment to avoid additional processing time and the possible loss of days of employment availability.


Eligibility

In order to be eligible for post-completion OPT, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have been lawfully enrolled as a full-time student at least one full academic year (two long semesters).
  • You must currently be in F-1 status.
  • You must be eligible for graduation.

Reporting Requirements

As of April 2008, students on post-completion OPT must report changes in employment and all periods of unemployment over 10 days to the UT Dallas ISSO. A reporting form will be available on the ISSO website for students to download and fax or email to the ISSO to meet this requirement.

Limits on Unemployment

As of April 2008, students on post-completion OPT have limits on periods of unemployment. To maintain their F-1 visa status, students must not exceed a total of 90 days of unemployment.

For more information about post-completion OPT, contact an international student advisor.

 

Updated: June 30, 2008