Optional Practical Training (OPT) Application Season Fall 2026

Office of International Students and Scholars oiss@tulane.edu

Greetings, 

F-1 students graduating in Fall 2026 should think about applying for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) soon. To be eligible for OPT, you must have held F-1 status for at least two semesters. OPT allows you to work in your field of study for up to 12 months (or 36 months for certain STEM fields). OISS will begin to accept applications on September 18, and we will start processing on October 2 if your expected graduation date is December 31. 

Please note: 

  • Processing times for USCIS vary. On average, USCIS is taking approximately 90 - 120 days. However, some applications are taking longer. We suggest you apply early. 
  • Students who are graduating and located outside of the U.S. this semester, please schedule an appointment with your international student advisor to discuss your OPT application 

With recent changes to D/S, please review our page to understand how traveling outside of the United States after September 15 may affect your application. 

Please read this email carefully to learn about the upcoming OPT info sessions and important dates and deadlines.

Visit Our OPT Website

OISS will host both in-person and virtual OPT events to help you prepare to file. During these info sessions, you can ask questions to OISS staff about the application materials, forms you need to complete, and what the costs are associated with filing for OPT.

Click to View Upcoming Info Sessions!

OPT FAQ 

What is OPT? 

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an opportunity for hands-on work experience in the U.S. related to your program of study. It is a work authorization granted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are two types of OPT: 

  • Post-Completion OPT: This is the type of OPT most F-1 students use. It is available after you complete the course requirements for your degree, but you should apply before graduation. In general, you will be authorized for 12 months. 
  • Pre-Completion OPT: Part-time OPT is available before you graduate, but a better option for working off campus is Curricular Practical Training (CPT).  If CPT is unavailable to you and you want to learn more about pre-completion OPT, make an appointment with an OISS advisor. 

Do I need a job offer to apply for Post-Completion OPT? 

No, a job offer is not required in order for you to apply for OPT. Once you do obtain a job however it is important that you report the employment to OISS. 

How do I apply for OPT?

Students must first request an OPT Recommendation I-20 from OISS before applying for OPT on the USCIS website. You can request an OPT I-20 from OISS here. Applying to USCIS without an updated OPT I-20 will result in a denial. Once you have an OPT I-20, you can proceed with filing. 

Can I file my OPT application online? 

Yes, OISS recommends you e-file. 

How long does it take, and is there a way to expedite the process? 

USCIS processing time varies from 3 to 5 months. Once you have received your USCIS receipt notice, you can check the status of your application on the USCIS website. If you pay for premium processing, USCIS will process your OPT request within 30 days of your submission. The current filing fee $1,780. You will be asked if you want to file the I-907 premium processing form when you file the I-765 OPT form on the USCIS website. 

When can I submit my application to OISS? 

OISS will begin to accept applications on September 18, and we will start processing on October 2 if your expected graduation date is December 31. 

Where can I find more information about OPT? 

Read our complete FAQ guide here, or visit our website for more information! 

How does the new D/S rule changes affect OPT or STEM OPT? 

It depends on timing: 

  • If you are in the United States with D/S on your I-94 and USCIS recieves your OPT or STEM OPT application on or before March 18, 2027, you do not need to file an extra application to extend your stay
  • If you apply after March 18, 2027, you will need to file Form I-539 with USCIS along with your OPT or STEM OPT application 
  • If you travel internationally and re-enter on or after September 15, 2026, you will lose your D/S and have an Admit Until Date. You will then need to file a Form I-539 in addition to your OPT application. 

Talk with your OISS advisor before booking any international travel. Traveling and re-entering before you file for OPT will generally mean you must file an extra application, pay additional fees, and may result in longer government processing times.

Questions? Email your International Student Advisor!

If you have any questions about OPT, you can reach out to your International Student Advisor and ask! You can find your advisor's email or make an appointment on this page here. 

- The OISS Team