OPT Application Directions

Optional Practical Training Application Directions

Before applying, please review OPT eligibility and complete information.

IMPORTANT: Applicants will need a new I-20 recommending OPT from International Student Services.

Please email iss@mccneb.edu for an I-20 and include the start and end dates that you hope to work during OPT. The chart with dates is below. OPT applications must be received by USCIS within 30 days of the date that International Student Services prepares and signs the OPT I-20. If your application is filed with USCIS after 30 days of the OPT I-20 issuance date, your application will be denied.

F-1 students may request Post-Completion OPT to obtain work in their field of study once per educational level (associate's, bachelor's, master's, doctorate).

• Visit the USCIS Account page
  • Create an account with your personal (not MCC email account), and follow the instructions for setting up a password.
• Once you have created an account and logged in, select “My USCIS”
  • Select “Applicant” > File a form online > Look for the I-765 Employment Authorization application>choose the authorization you are applying for:
    • Pre-completion OPT: (c)(3)(A)
    • Post-completion OPT: (c)(3)(B)
• Fill out the form by following the prompts.
• You will be asked to upload documents. All documents must be in a certain format and no more than 6 MB per file: JPG, JEPG, PDF, TIF, OR TIFF (No PDFs for photos). Name documents with simple text and no special characters
  • US passport-style photo (taken within the last six (6) months)
    • The photo must be at least 600x600 pixels. The size must not be more than 6 MB.
    • The file must be a JPG, JEPG, PDF, TIF, OR TIFF – NO PDFs.
    • View complete passport photo details from the Department of State.
  • Copy of the new OPT I-20 from ISS and past CPT I-20s only for post-completion applications.
  • Copy of current I-94 printout (if paper card, include front and back)
  • Copy of passport (photocopy of photo page, renewal page if original has expired, and pages showing amendments such as name changes, corrections etc.)
  • If applicable, copy of any previously issued employment authorization documents (e.g. EAD cards)
  • Proof of past and present enrollment. Upload your unofficial transcript available through Student Self Service
• Double check fee amount and pay the OPT filing fee
  • Bank account and routing number
    • Must be drawn at a financial institution that is physically located in the U.S.
  • Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover)
    • Call your credit card company or bank to let them know this fee will be charged.
• Download a copy of the application for your reference. You cannot make any changes once the application is submitted.
• A receipt number will show immediately upon filing, and a paper notice will also be mailed to you.
• Requests for Evidence, biometrics appointment info, approvals, denials will show in the "Documents" section.
• The G-1145 is not part of the online application; it is only available when mailing a paper application.