Opt Ucberkely Tutorial PDF

Optional Practical Training
(OPT) Tutorial
How to prepare your Berkeley International Office
application materials for
(BIO)
submission to the U.S.
2299 Piedmont Avenue
Citizenship and Immigration
Berkeley, CA 94720
Service (USCIS).
(510) 642-2818
http://internationaloffice.berkeley.edu
Berkeley International Office
OPT Tutorial Outline

• What is OPT, OPT Eligibility Requirements, Application Process Overview
• Completing BIO’s OPT I-20 Request Process
• Choosing a Start Date & Scenarios
• Checking your OPT I-20 for Accuracy
• Preparing your OPT Request to USCIS
• Your Photos
• Paying the USCIS Fee
• Completing the I-765 Form
• Your OPT I-20 Copy
• Your Passport & Visa copies
• Your I-94 Record
• Your Previous I-20 Copies
• Your Previous EAD Card Copy (may not be applicable)
• Your G-1145 Form
• Mailing your Application & Application Deadlines
• Receiving your I-797c, your EAD card, and Request for Evidence
• Maintaining Your F-1 Status & Reporting Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions: Employment & Travel
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training is an F-1 student employment benefit.
Allows for off campus work authorization in a student’s major

field of study.
Students must be in full-time F-1 status for at least one

academic year*
* Some students who change visa status
to F-1 and who have been continuously
enrolled in a full-time degree program
for at least 1 academic year may qualify
for OPT prior to 1 year in F-1 status.
3
Are you eligible for OPT?

Pre-Completion OPT Post-Completion OPT
For most students, Curricular Practical Training
Have you been continuously in a valid student
(CPT) is a better option. It allows for off-
status for one academic year?
campus work authorization in your field of
At UC Berkeley, one academic year means
study without using any of the 12 months of
enrollment for consecutive:
OPT time. See our web site for a detailed
•Fall – Spring semesters
description of Curricular Practical Training.
•Spring – Fall semesters
•Spring – Summer (enrollment through August, not
Summer A or E only) semesters
You do NOT need to have a job offer to apply •Summer (minimum of 12 units) – Fall semesters
for OPT. The authorization is based on your
program completion, not a specific employer. Will you be completing your program of study at
See the OPT FAQ web page for more UC Berkeley in the next 90 days?
commonly asked questions. The application for OPT cannot be submitted more
than 90 days before your program completion date.
4
Are you eligible for OPT?

CPT usage
• If you have used 1 year or more of full-time
Curricular Practical Training (CPT), during your
current degree level, then you do not qualify for
OPT.
• Part-time CPT does not count towards OPT
disqualification
• Note that heavy CPT usage either part-time or full-
time can cause your OPT application to be subject
to additional scrutiny. Be prepared to provide
evidence of all prior CPT I-20s, as well as the
academic work related to your CPT
5
Types of Qualifying Employment

During you r12 month OPT period, OPT employment must be a minimum of 20 hours per
week in a job that is directly related to your degree program. The burden of proof is on the
student to demonstrate the relationship. The types of employment allowed during the
initial 12-month period of OPT include:
• Paid employment
• Multiple employers
• Work for hire (commonly referred to as 1099 employment)
• Self-employed business owner
• Employment through an agency
• Unpaid / Volunteer employment
See the OPT Qualifying Employment web page

for a detailed explanation of each category.
6
Application Process Overview

1. Request an OPT I-20
The I-20 will be ready for pick up 3 business days after submitting
the OPT request form and Post-Completion Services Fee payment to
Berkeley International Office.
2. Prepare and mail your application materials

Allow approximately 1 week to gather and organize the required
documents. After USCIS has received your application, allow
approximately 90 days for processing. Average processing is 90 days,
but processing can take longer in some cases.
3. Receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
7
Step 1: Request your OPT I-20

Complete the OPT Request Form [pdf] :
• Confirm your expected program completion date.
• Get the required signature from your academic
advisor.
• Choose your OPT start date.
• Pay/prepare your $100 Post-Completion Services
Fee to Berkeley International Office via credit/debit
card, check or money order (no cash). Attach proof
of payment to OPT Request form.
• Credit/Debit Card: Pay online. Find link on our OPT
webpage. You must print your receipt/proof of payment
and attach it to your OPT I-20 Request form.
• Check or Money Order: Make check or money order
payable to order of "UC Regents" and write your Student ID
Number in the notes/memo section; attach your check or
money order to the OPT I-20 Request form
OPT Requests without proof of payment will not be
accepted
8
Step 1: Request your OPT I-20 Berkeley International Office
Choose your OPT start & end date

• Your OPT start date is the date that your 12
months of work authorization begins.
• Your OPT start date must be within the 60-day
grace period after the program completion
date.
• The requested start & end dates will be noted
on page 2 of the new OPT I-20.
• The end date will usually be 1 year from your
start date (i.e. a July 2 start date will have a
July 1 end date.)
NOTE:
Once USCIS receives the OPT application, it
is not possible to change the requested start
and end dates.
9
Obtain Academic Recommendation and signature

Undergraduates:
•Obtain the signature from a College Advisor, (i.e. College of
Letters and Science) or Department Advisor
•Expected completion/graduation = The last day of the

semester in which program requirements are completed.
Graduates:
•Obtain the signature from a Faculty Advisor or Graduate
Student Affairs Officer (GSAO)
•Expected completion = The last day of the semester in
which program requirements are completed, OR The date
the thesis or dissertation is filed with the Graduate Division
Speak with a BIO advisor if you have a job offer beginning
before the last day of the semester. Graduate students who
only have a dissertation/thesis remaining may be eligible to
begin their post-completion OPT before filing
10
Program completion: Undergrads Completing in Summer Session
To qualify for a summer completion date, students must:
Have a final course requirement to be completed in summer.
Be enrolled full time during Summer Session or receive

Reduced Course Load approval from BIO for final term.
Use the end date of your specific Summer Session as your

program completion date (i.e. Summer Session A end date), OR
Use the general Summer Session end date
(i.e. last date of Summer Session E)
If you have only been enrolled for 1 previous semester (Spring)
and are completing in your second semester-Summer, you must
be enrolled through August, the end of the Summer term. You
cannot meet OPT eligibility if only enrolling in Summer Session
A or E alone
Note: If summer is your final semester, any on campus
employment or Curricular Practical Training is limited to 20
hours per week.
11
Summer Program Completion: Graduate Students

Filing Thesis/Dissertation May Through August
*Please speak with a BIO advisor about your program completion date and choosing an OPT start date.
Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

•Use Spring Semester program •Use Summer Session program • Use Fall Semester
completion date* completion date* completion date*
•No summer enrollment •Enrollment for Summer Session • Be on Fall Filing Fee and
required required (no unit minimum) submit thesis/dissertation
•Degree conferred in Summer •Degree conferred in Summer after Summer Session end
•OPT start date must be within •OPT start date must be within date
60 days of Spring Semester 60 days of Summer program • Degree conferred in Fall
program completion date completion date • OPT start date needs to be
within 60 days of Fall
program completion date
12
OPT Application Timeline:

(Example based on Dec 14,2018 program completion)
BIO processing time = 3 business days OPT must begin within 60 days
USCIS processing time = 3 months average Of program completion date
Program Final Deadline:

Completion OPT Received
First Day to Apply Date by USCIS
09/14/2018* 12/14/2018 02/12/2019

*BIO can accept
applications
starting 9/14/18,
90 days before
12/14/2018. Apply to UCSIS up to 90 days Apply to UCSIS up to 60 days
Technically 9/15 is before program completion after program completion
90 days prior, but is
a weekend
13
Scenario 1: Spring Program Completion
2019 17
May 17, 2019
14
Scenario 2: Spring Program Completion
16th
May 17
16th2019.
15
Check your OPT I-20 for accuracy

After receiving your OPT I-20, notify BIO immediately if there are any errors.
Education Level
Education Level may have changed. (ex. PhD
candidate decides to graduate with a
Master’s)
Program End Date

Program completion date will be updated to
the program completion date on the OPT
request form.
(I-20 will remain valid through OPT authorization period on
page 2 or the approved EAD card dates)
School Attestation
Make sure there is a BIO advisor signature.
Check the DATE ISSUED– USCIS must receive
your application within 30 days of this date.
Advisor Signature
Student Attestation
You should sign & date I-20. Students 18 and
over do not need a parent’s signature.
Student Signature MM/DD/YYY
16
Check your OPT I-20 for accuracy

I-20, Page 2
OPT start and end dates requested

(OPT start date may be adjusted in SEVIS if
USCIS does not complete the processing of
your OPT by the requested date. Apply at
least 90 days before requested start date, if
possible.)
Advisor Name DSO|Berkeley, CA AdvisorSignature MM/DD/YYYY
You will receive a new travel signature at the

time you request your OPT I-20.
Please note: USCIS must receive your

application within 30 days of the DATE
ISSUED date on PAGE 1, not the travel
signature date. (The travel signature may be
a later date.)
17
Step 2:
Prepare & Mail
Your Application Materials
18
Step 2: Prepare and Mail the OPT Application Berkeley International Office
Required documents for OPT application

 2 U.S. Passport Photos (with name and I-94 number written lightly in pencil on back of each),
taken within the past 30 days.
 USCIS Fee of $410. Check, Money Order, or Credit Card payment made payable to: “U.S.
Department of Homeland Security.” Write your SEVIS ID in the memo line.
 Form G-1145 to confirm receipt and obtain case number in advance of paper notification:
http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-1145.pdf.
 Original form I-765. http://www.uscis.gov
 Copy of OPT I-20 (pages 1-3) issued by BIO within the past 30 days. Don’t forget to sign it!
 Copy of currently valid passport biographical page and F-1 visa stamp, if applicable.
 Copy of expired passport biographical page if you used that document to enter the US most
recently.
 Printout of electronic I-94 record (https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/) or copy of paper Form I-94
(both sides)
 Copies of all previous CPT I-20s (from UCB and/or previous schools), if applicable
 Copies of all previous OPT I-20s and EAD card(s) (from UCB and/or previous schools), if
applicable
No documents are required
for F-2 dependents.
19
Gather the required documentation

Passport Photo Requirements
The photos required to use for the OPT application must meet the specifications of U.S. style passport photos. To see a full
description of these specifications, go to the U.S. Department of State website.
• Submit 2 identical color passport photos taken within 30 days of filing your application. The photos must have a white to
off-white background, be printed on thin paper with a glossy finish, and be unmounted and unretouched. The passport-
style photos must be 2” by 2”. You must remove your glasses and your head must be bare unless you are wearing
headwear as required by a religious order of which you are a member.
• Using pencil or felt pen, lightly print your name and I-94 number on the back of the photo. Do not damage the photo
surface by pressing hard while writing
Professional Photography
USCIS has been examining passport photos more strictly. BIO
recommends students have their photos taken professionally. Recently,
students have been visiting the following locations to obtain their photos.
Metro Publishing
2440 Bancroft Way
Berkeley, CA 94704
http://www.yelp.com/biz/metro-publishing-berkeley
Foto Shop
131 Berkeley Sq
Berkeley, CA 94704
http://www.yelp.com/biz/foto-shop-berkeley
20

Check, Money Order, or Credit Card:
• USCIS Payment Methods: Check/Money Order or Credit Card Payment for $410.
• Check/Money Order should be made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security" with SEVIS number
in the memo line. Money orders can be purchased at banks, post office, and some local grocery stores. Make
sure a name and address are printed on the check. If the address has changed, that is fine.
 Do not use “temporary checks” often issued by the bank when opening a new account.
These checks have no name or address in the upper left hand corner.
• For Credit Card payment, submit form G-1450, authorized payment amount $410. You may only use a credit
card account with a U.S. billing address- no foreign billing address is allowed.
Money orders and cashier checks should include the same information as a personal check.
21
Form G-1145
• Attach to the top of the OPT Application Packet
• Use this form to request text and email notification(s)
regarding your application. Download the form at
http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-1145.pdf
WARNING!
USCIS will rarely contact you by phone
regarding the status of your OPT application.
If you receive a phone call from a person claiming to work for

USCIS or any other government agency, do not provide your
personal information to them. Note the person’s name, phone
number, and email address and contact a BIO advisor before
responding.
22

Form I-765
Download the I-765 form from the USCIS web site. Important:
Use the most current version. It is best to download it just before
mailing the application since USCIS updates it frequently.
How to fill out Form I-765

• Type or print legibly in in black ink.
• Answer all questions fully and accurately.
• If a question does not apply to you, type or print “N/A”
• Print and complete ALL pages 1-7. If any pages are missing,
your application will be rejected!
Some parts of the I-765 can be confusing. The following slides will
help you complete those “tricky” questions. Contact BIO with ANY
questions or uncertainties about completing the I-765.
Note: In mid-July 2018, the current version of the I-765 was updated. This
tutorial reflects the newest version.
23
Complete the Form I-765
Top Portion: leave this entire section blank Leave blank
PART 1. Reason for Applying, pg. 1

x
Check the “1.a.” box for “Initial Permission to
accept employment.”
24

PART 2. Information About You, pg. 1
FAMILY NAME
#1 Name
Your entire family name should be in CAPITAL letters. First Name
Use upper & lower case for the first name. Please write N/A
your name exactly as it appears on your I-20.
#2-4 Other Names Used

Enter your previous names, including nicknames you
have used in official records or documentation. If none,
write “N/A”
N/A
N/A
If you are typing out the I-765 electronically, be
aware that the form does not allow you to write N/A
the “/” character into these fields. You will need
N/A
to hand-write the “N/A” wherever this appears in
the instructions. N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
25

PART 2. Information About You, pg. 2
U.S. Mailing Address Oski Bear (or N/A if this is your address)
This is where you would like the Receipt Notice and the EAD card to 123 College Ave
be mailed. This is very important!
x 8
The address should be valid for at least 3-5 months, the length of
Berkeley
time it will take to process the application. If you have plans to
move during this time, use a reliable friend or family member’s CA 94720
address to receive the EAD (indicate this in #5.a.)
#5.a. If the mailing address belongs to someone other than X

yourself, put their full name (First Name Last Name) here. If this is If no, complete 7.a-7.d
your address, write “N/A.”
#5.b-5.e Write a valid mailing address in the U.S. It may be a

residence, commercial address, or PO Box. You may not use BIO’s
address. 987 Example Street
x 45A
#6 If you listed a mailing address that is NOT your current physical
living address, select “No” and complete #7.a-7.d with your Oakland
current physical address. If “Yes”, write “N/A” in #7.a-7.d. Physical CA 94604
address should reflect where you actually live.
*If the you live outside of CA, please pay attention to the special
mailing instructions later in the tutorial.
26

PART 2, pg. 2, continued…
Other Information
8. F-1 students do not have an A-Number, leave this

blank.
Leave blank
9. F-1 students do not have a USCIS Online Account
Number, leave this blank.
Leave blank
10-11. The responses to these questions should be
straightforward. Please complete them accurately. x
12.
x
Check “No” if you have never applied for an EAD.
Check “Yes” if you have previously applied for an
EAD. You will need to provide copies of your previous EADs. x
If yes, you will need to provide copy(s)
Note on 12: This question does not apply to previous on- of your previous EAD(s)
campus employment or CPT.
27
Complete the Form I-765 123456789

PART 2, pg. 2, continued…
If no, skip to 18
#13.a.-17.b. Social Security Number (SSN) If yes, complete 15-17.b
#13.a.
Check “Yes” if you have been issued an SSN and enter your SSN
with one letter in each box in #13.b.
Check “No” if you do not yet have an SSN
#14.
Check “Yes” if you want a new or replacement SSN card and
complete #15-17.b
Check “No” if you do not want a new or replacement SS card
FAMILY NAME
First Name
If yes, complete 13.b If no, skip to14
FAMILY NAME
First Name
You should receive your Social Security card from SSA about 2 weeks after
receiving your approved EAD from USCIS.
28
PART 2, pg. 2-3 continued…

The responses to these questions are straightforward.
Please complete them accurately.
Australia
#18 Countries of Citizenship, pg 2
List all as applicable (use Part 6 of the I-765 if needed) or N/A
write “N/A” in 18.b. if you do not have multiple citizenships.
#19-20 Place of Birth, pg 3

List the name of the country as it was named when you were
born, even if it’s name has changed
Brisbane
Make sure your Date of Birth is in the correct format of
MONTH - DAY - YEAR. (01/31/1998 not 31/01/1998) Queensland
Australia
01/31/1998
29

PART 2, pg. 3 continued…
Information About Your Last Arrival
#21.a. I-94 Number
Use your current I-94 number. This is at the number found on
the electronic I-94 record or on the top left corner of the
paper Form I-94 card (see example)
#21.b-e. Passport Information

Enter the information directly from your passport. This
passport should match the country on your I-20.
In cases where you entered the US on a passport that is now 21 2 3 4 56 7 8 9
expired, enter the number of your renewed passport. (*You
will provide information on the expired passport on p. 7 of the YG000954R
application.)
N/A
#21.c. Travel Document
Write “N/A” here Australia
11/01/2022
30

#22 Date of Last Entry into the U.S.
Your most recent entry date can be found on your passport
admission stamp, electronic I-94 record, or paper I-94 card.
#23 Place of Last Arrival into the U.S.

12/19/2017
Name of the Port of Entry city from your most recent entry. This
information can be found on your passport admission stamp, travel SFR
history section of your electronic I-94 record, or paper I-94 card
(usually as a code , i.e. “SFR” for San Francisco). If you drove across the
border, write the name of the city where entered the U.S.
F-1 Student
#24 Immigration Status at Last Entry
Status in which you entered the U.S. If you entered with an I-
20 as a student, write “F-1 Student.”
#25 Current Immigration Status F-1 Student
Current status should be “F-1 student.” If not, talk to a BIO
advisor, and this status should be reflected in your current I-
94.
0023104289
#26 SEVIS ID
Your SEVIS ID appears on the top left side of your I-20 and
starts with N00…
31

PART 2, pg. 3 continued… N/A
#27 Eligibility Category N/A

Use the code (c) (3) (B) for post-completion OPT.
DO NOT USE a different code! N/A
N/A
Leave blank
C 3 B
#28-31.b Other Eligibility Categories

Write “N/A” in these fields. N/A means not applicable. These questions
are NOT applicable to applying for your 12-month Post Completion OPT.
#28 is for STEM OPT applicants only. N/A
Leave blank
32

PART 3. Applicant’s Statement, pg. 4
#1.a. Select 1.a. to indicate that you have read and understood
the questions.
#3-6 Provide your information as requested X
Leave blank
Leave blank
1234567890
1234567890
[email protected]
33

Applicant’s Declaration and Certification
Read the entire declaration carefully.
Applicant’s Signature
#7.a.-7.b. Hand sign your name and provide the date of the
signature
Important!
Your signature will be scanned and must fit within the box. It Your signature here (don’t touch the lines)
must NOT touch the box outline. If the signature is too big and
MM/DD/YYYY
crosses a line, your application could be delayed. Be
conservative and use a signature smaller than normal. Please
see the example.
Troubleshooting Signature Line:

In some cases the “Don’t forget to sign!” automatic reminder will not disappear when you print the form.
You should remove the auto filled “Don’t forget to sign!” We recommend trying:
•To open the form in the most recent version of Adobe Reader.
•To print a blank version of the form’s second page from your web browser.
34

PARTS 4 and 5, pgs. 4-6
These sections are not applicable to you, since you’ve completed the form yourself, so write “N/A.” This section
is for those who use an interpreter or other paid preparer to complete the form
Part 4 pg. 5 Part 5 pg. 6
Part 4 pg. 4 N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
35

Page 7, Part 6 needs to be completed ONLY if you:
• most recently entered the US on a passport that is no longer valid and you now have a renewed passport
• have previously had other SEVIS IDs
• have ever been authorized for CPT or OPT
If none of these apply to you, leave Page 7, Part 6 blank, but you must include it in your application. You are
done with the I-765.
36

Page 7, Part 6 if you:
• most recently entered the US on a passport that is no longer
valid and you now have a renewed passport
If none of these apply to you, leave Part 6 blank. You are done
with the I-765; skip to the next slide.
FAMILY NAME
PART 6, Additional Information, pg. 7
First Name
#1.a.-1.c. Provide your name again as listed in Part 2, 1.a-1.c.
N/A
#2. Leave blank
#3.a-3.c. Reference Pg. 3, Part 2, Item 21.d.
#3d. Write an explanation that clarifies that you have two 3 2 21.d
passports: one that you used for entry but is no longer valid, and I most recently entered the US on MM-DD-YYYY
one that is currently valid. with passport ######## and was issued I-94
#3.d. Include copies of both passports and your I-94 with your #######. Since this date, I have renewed my
application. passport. The number of my new passport is
#######. See attached copies of both passports
and the I-94.
37

Page 7, Part 6 if you:
• have previously had other SEVIS IDs
• have ever been authorized for CPT or OPT
PART 6, Additional Information, pg. 7
#1.a.-1.c. Provide your name again as listed in Part 2, 1.a-1.c.
FAMILY NAME
#2. Leave blank
First Name
#3.a-3.c. Reference Pg. 3, Part 2, Item 27
N/A
(If you already used sections 3.a-3d use the next available
section, 4a-d, etc)
#3d. List all previously used SEVIS numbers – including from all
previous F-1 programs in the U.S including high school, short 3 2 27
stays, language training schools, community colleges, or
Previous SEVIS IDs: N0048798787, N0009898989,
previous I-20s at UCB. N0012345679 (these are examples only)
#3.d. If you have had previous CPT and/or OPT, write “see
attached documentation for previous CPT and/or OPT See attached documentation for previous CPT and
authorizations” and include copies of all previous CPT and OPT OPT authorizations.
I-20s and EAD cards with your application.
You may need to contact your previous schools if you are
missing any of this information.
38

IF YOU COMPLETED any part of PAGE 7, PART 6
You must add your signature and the date in the blank space at the bottom of page 7.
Oski Bear August 1, 2018
39
You are done with the I-765!

1. Review all the information on the form for accuracy. You must submit ALL 7 pages of the I-765.
2. Make a copy of your completed I-765 application to keep for your records, in case there is a problem
with the application.
3. Next, gather the required documentation and copies …see following slides
40
Photocopy of UCB OPT I-20 (all pages):
• Must be received by USCIS within 30 days of

DATE ISSUED on page 1
• Original must be signed by a BIO advisor in
before copying
• Original must be signed by the student at the
bottom of page 1 before copying.
• The requested OPT start and end dates will
appear on page 2.
• Do not mail the original I-20.
41
Photocopy of Passport and Visa:
• Photocopy the passport biographic page

with photo and passport expiration date.
Use a valid passport even if it is not the
passport you used to enter the US most
recently. (*You will provide information on
the expired passport on p. 7.)
• Photocopy the F-1 visa, if applicable; visa

does not need to be valid.
42
Gather the required documentation.
Photocopy of I-94 Information:
The I-94 can be either:

•An electronic I-94 record. Visit:
www.cbp.gov/i94 to access
and print your record.
OR
•a paper I-94 card stapled into your
passport. Include a copy of both sides, Electronic I-94 Record
even though the back side may be blank.
OR
• a copy of an I-797 Change of Status
Approval Notice which includes a new I-94.
Paper I-94 (front) Paper I-94 (back)
43

Photocopy of all previous OPT and CPT
I-20s: Old
Version
• Please include copies of all previous CPT and OPT
I-20s at UCB and previous schools
• Old and new versions of the I-20 are acceptable.
• Copy all 3 pages.
• Keep the originals for your records. New
• Copies of original I-20s are best, but you may Version
need to request copies of any lost CPT/OPT I-20s.
– UCB I-20s : request these from BIO when you turn
in your OPT Request Form.
– Previous School I-20s: contact them directly
• If you have never used CPT or OPT in the past,

you do not need to include previous I-20s.
44
Photocopy of Previous EAD(s), if applicable:
 If an EAD was received in the past, include

a copy of the front and back of the card.
 Can be from OPT approved at a prior
institution or different education level.
 Include previous OPT I-20s and I-797
notice of approval as well if available.
45
The Application Deadline We recommend that you apply early.
• USCIS must receive your complete OPT

application no later than 30 days after the OPT
I-20 ISSUE DATE on page 1.
– The issue date is located next to the advisor’s
signature on page 1 of the OPT I-20. Please
account for mailing time.
• Additionally, USCIS must receive your

application before the end of your 60 day grace
period.
• Track the status of your mailed application to be
certain it was delivered on time.
Your application must be submitted to USCIS from

within the U.S. If you exit the U.S. after your
program completion date without applying for OPT,
you cannot return and will lose your option for OPT.
46
Mailing the OPT Application from California

USCIS Mailing Addresses
for people who live in California*
FedEx, UPS, & Other Express Carrier Mail: U.S. Postal Service Mail
USCIS USCIS
Attn: NFB AOS PO Box 21281
1820 E. Skyharbor, Circle S Phoenix, AZ 85036
Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85034
If using USPS, choose Express or Priority

BIO recommends FedEx as a reliable option. Mail option and use the above address.
If using FedEx or UPS, use the above address. Be Be sure your mailing option includes
sure your mailing option includes tracking and tracking and guaranteed delivery
guaranteed delivery
* If you do not live in California, see the next slide for mailing information.
47
Mailing From Outside California
If living in… Mail your application to…

Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of U.S. Postal Service Express Deliveries
Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine,
USCIS USCIS
Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New
Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, PO Box 660867 Attn: NFB AOS
Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Dallas, TX 75266 2501 S. State Hwy 121 Business
Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Suite 400
West Virginia Lewisville, TX 75067
Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, U.S. Postal Service Express Deliveries
Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri,
USCIS USCIS
Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon,
South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Guam, PO Box 21281 Attn: NFB AOS
or the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. Phoenix, AZ 85036 1820 E Skyharbor Circle S
Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85034
48
Step 3:
Receive the Employment
Authorization Document (EAD)
49
Step 3: Receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Berkeley International Office
I-797 Notice of Action

You should receive the notice by mail within 2-4 weeks after mailing the
OPT application to USCIS.
The I-797C is very important.

If you lose the receipt, it may be very difficult to replace
it.
The I-797C is necessary if you want to:
1) inquire about the status of your OPT application.
2) travel outside the U.S when your OPT is pending.
Receipt Number
The case number for the OPT application at USCIS. Check the
status of the case on the USCIS web site at https://www.uscis.gov
Received Date
Date when USCIS begins processing the application. (It may not be the
actual the application was received, but it is when the case was entered
into the system.)
Address Information
Verify your name, date of birth, and address on the I-765 receipt notice.
If incorrect, contact BIO immediately.
Contacting USCIS
If you have any problems or questions with the OPT application,
contact a BIO advisor before calling the USCIS Customer Service.
50
USCIS Issues & Tracking

Your Case
Case Status Updates
BIO strongly recommends that you sign up for an
account at https://www.uscis.gov. This can allow you to
receive automatic updates and monitor your case. Click
“Check Your Case Status” and then select “Sign Up”.
General Case Tracking:
If you don’t sign up for an account, you can still track
your case using the “Check Your Case Status” Tool
Address Changes:
If your address changes, you can update it online
through the “Change of Address” tool. Keep in mind that
address changes can take 10 business days to process,
and could jeopardize your OPT EAD delivery. We
recommend keeping the same address for your entire
OPT processing, if possible.
Case Inquiries:
You can submit inquiries about your case using the Case
Inquiry tool, if your don’t receive your receipt or other
notifications, or if your EAD has been pending for more
than 75 days.
51
BerkeleyInternationalOffice (BIO)
Application Problems- RFE or

Rejection/Denial
RFE- If there is a problem with your application, the USCIS may
send you a notice by mail called a “Request for Evidence (RFE).”
An RFE does not mean that your application has been rejected. It
simply means that you need to send in additional documents
before your EAD can be issued.
• Getting an RFE will delay the processing of your application
Rejection/Denial- In some cases, if too many items are missing
from your application, the USCIS will return the entire application
to you. If this happens, you must make the corrections and send
the application before the end date of your 60-day grace period.
Contact BIO To avoid delays, review your

IMMEDIATELY if you application materials for
receive an RFE, completeness and sign all the
forms before mailing them to
rejection, or denial.
the USCIS.
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Review card to make sure the information

is accurate. If not, contact a BIO advisor.
• Present your EAD to employers as
proof of your legal work authorization in the US.
• The EAD is a required document for entry to the
US during OPT
• Upload a copy of your EAD card at
io.berkeley.edu/ssu
53
Your Responsibilities during OPT

1. Reporting Requirements
2. Employment Requirements
3. Travel Documents for Re-entry
4. Applying for an F-1 Visa on OPT
54
Reporting Requirements-
BIO SSU HUB MANDATORY
• ALL STUDENTS ON OPT/STEM ARE REQUIRED
TO USE THE BIO SSU HUB TO SUBMIT OPT
UPDATES. BIO SSU Hub is a is a Berkeley
International Office system.
• Submit updates online at io.berkeley.edu/ssu
SEVP Portal- OPTIONAL
• The Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has its own “SEVP Portal” for students on
OPT/STEM. On Day 1 of your Approved OPT, you will receive an email from SEVP with
instructions on how to create an account. This email will come from do-not-
[email protected]
• Be aware of scams- SEVP will NEVER ask you for a payment to register to register for the
optional SEVP Portal.
• Registration for SEVP Portal is OPTIONAL. BIO WILL NOT USE the SEVP Portal for OPT
reporting purposes. We recommend that you use the SEVP Portal as view only and
continue to use SSU Hub to update your information.
55
2. Employment Requirements
• You must work a minimum of 20 hours per week in a position related to your field of
study. For more information, visit “Qualifying OPT Employment.”
• You cannot exceed more than 90 days of unemployment while on OPT. Days of
unemployment prior to your EAD start date do not count towards the 90 days. It is your
responsibility to keep records of your employment and any periods of unemployment.
• For more information see: OPT Unemployment Allowances
56
3. Travel Documents for Re-entry

Documents Before Completing After Completing After Completing
Program & Before EAD Program & Before EAD Program &
issuance issuance After EAD issuance
Valid passport   
Valid F-1 visa stamp (if applicable)   
OPT I-20 with a valid travel endorsement signed   
within 6 months by a BIO Advisor (page 2)
Evidence of continued enrollment (e.g. Enrollment 

Verification from CalCentral)
Evidence of financial support Strongly recommended Strongly recommended Strongly recommended
OPT receipt: I-797 Notice of Action 

Job offer letter from employer Strongly recommended

EAD (Employment Authorization Document) 
Your admission to the US is always at the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection
Officers. To avoid problems, you must have the required documents outlined above.
57
Important Information on Travel

• Avoid long absences from the US during the OPT period. Time spent outside of the US
while unemployed by a US employer counts toward your 90 days of unemployment.
• Attempting to re-enter the U.S. close to the expiration date of your OPT can be risky.
• You must not enter the U.S. in a status other than F-1. This may result in the loss of your
OPT eligibility.
Travel after Program Completion, But Before OPT Card is received
• There is a higher risk associated with travel and return while your OPT is pending after
the program completion date. If there are any problems with your application, you may
not be able to respond to USCIS in a timely manner, which could delay processing of your
EAD.
• If your OPT application is denied while outside the US, you will not be able to re-enter
the US in F-1 status and will not be able to reapply.
58
4. Applying for an F-1 Visa on OPT

If you are traveling abroad and your F-1 visa has expired, you must obtain a new F-1 visa before
returning to the U.S. When going to your visa interview, bring the documents below. For more
information, visit: http://internationaloffice.berkeley.edu/visa_application
1. Valid passport
2. Valid I-20 with travel endorsement from a Berkeley International Office
advisor within the past 6 months
3. Unexpired EAD Card
4. Job offer letter or proof of current employment directly related to your field of study
5. Evidence of sufficient funds (e.g. a bank statement, a letter from a
sponsor or a job offer letter)
Check the U.S. Department of State web site for more information about getting a visa and specific
requirements at the local embassy or consulate at www.travel.state.gov
59
Completing OPT & Grace Period
• You have a 60 day grace period following the end of the OPT EAD
• Failure to exit, continue your F-1 status, or timely file an Extension or USCIS Change of
status will result in accrual of days of unlawful presence
• If you intend to apply for an OPT STEM Extension, you must do so before the expiration
of your 12 month OPT
• The only additional extension of OPT available is the OPT Cap Gap Extension, for
students who have an accepted cap-subject H1-B application
• If you receive an Extension of your OPT, the grace period will begin after the end of the
Extension period.
If you do not extend your OPT, and your EAD expires, you have the following options before
the end of the 60 days grace period:
1. Exit the US within 60 days
2. Continue your F-1 Status & Studies: Transfer your I-20 to continue studies at another
school OR request a Change of Educational Level to begin new studies at UC Berkeley
3. Work with immigration legal counsel regarding a Change of Status application to a new
visa category. You will need to check with your legal counsel regarding your allowed
period of stay or required exit date if you have a pending change of status when your
grace period ends.
60
More Information
Consult the Berkeley International Office OPT webpage for detailed information related
to:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Address and Employer Reporting System
Types of Qualifying Employment
90-Day Unemployment Rule
Beginning a New Program of Study
Taking Classes While on OPT
Traveling Outside the U.S.
Early Completion of OPT
OPT STEM Extension
Cap-Gap Extension
61
Final check of your OPT application

Want to review all your documents in detail before mailing them to USCIS?
See our online video

OPT Application Checklist
Still have questions?

Come see a BIO Advisor in person at Berkeley International Office.
62
Office Hours
[email protected]
510-642-2818
63

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Optional Practical Training

OPT Tutorial Outline

Allows for off campus work authorization in a student’s major

Students must be in full-time F-1 status for at least one

Are you eligible for OPT?

Are you eligible for OPT?

Types of Qualifying Employment

See the OPT Qualifying Employment web page

Application Process Overview

2. Prepare and mail your application materials

3. Receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Step 1: Request your OPT I-20

Choose your OPT start & end date

Obtain Academic Recommendation and signature

•Expected completion/graduation = The last day of the

Program completion: Undergrads Completing in Summer Session

To qualify for a summer completion date, students must:

Have a final course requirement to be completed in summer.

Be enrolled full time during Summer Session or receive

Use the end date of your specific Summer Session as your

Summer Program Completion: Graduate Students

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

OPT Application Timeline:

Program Final Deadline:

09/14/2018* 12/14/2018 02/12/2019

Scenario 1: Spring Program Completion

May 17, 2019

Scenario 2: Spring Program Completion

Check your OPT I-20 for accuracy

Program End Date

Check your OPT I-20 for accuracy

OPT start and end dates requested

Advisor Name DSO|Berkeley, CA AdvisorSignature MM/DD/YYYY

You will receive a new travel signature at the

Please note: USCIS must receive your

Required documents for OPT application

Gather the required documentation

Gather the required documentation

Gather the required documentation

If you receive a phone call from a person claiming to work for

Gather the required documentation

How to fill out Form I-765

Complete the Form I-765

Top Portion: leave this entire section blank Leave blank

PART 1. Reason for Applying, pg. 1

Complete the Form I-765

#2-4 Other Names Used

Complete the Form I-765

#5.a. If the mailing address belongs to someone other than X

#5.b-5.e Write a valid mailing address in the U.S. It may be a

Complete the Form I-765

8. F-1 students do not have an A-Number, leave this

Complete the Form I-765 123456789

Complete the Form I-765

PART 2, pg. 2-3 continued…

#19-20 Place of Birth, pg 3

Complete the Form I-765

#21.b-e. Passport Information

Complete the Form I-765