Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional practical training is one type of work permission available for eligible F-1 students. It allows students to experience real-world work related to their field of study.

For students engaged in post-secondary education or at conservatories. Twelve months of regular OPT is available for each higher level of study. (For example, a student may have 12 months for a bachelor’s degree and another 12 months for a master’s degree).

Eligibility

In order to apply for OPT, you must 

• have been enrolled full-time for one academic year (spring and fall)
• not be taking Intensive English (IEP) courses
• have not been participating in full-time CPT for more than 365 days

Application timeline

• You may apply for OPT as early as 90 days before the program end date on your I-20
  • The OIE recommends you apply as soon as you are able to as it usually takes USCIS 3-5 months to review your application
• The last day you can apply for OPT is 60 days after the program end date on your I-20

Application Process: 
1. Participate in the OPT workshop (mandatory)

• For Fall 2025 semester:
  • Wednesday, August 27 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MU 250D Miller 
  • Friday, September 12 | 9:00am – 10:00am | MU 250D Miller
• For Spring 2026 semester:
  • Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 9:00am – 10:00am | MU 048 PKP 
  • Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 4:00pm-5:00pm | MU 048 PKP 

2. Start the OPT Document Review Request

• Upload every required documents for the OIE to review
• When you have completed the Document Review Request, email oisa@emporia.edu

3. OIE will review your documents within 10 business days and send you feedback if corrections are needed

4. OIE will send you an OPT I-20

5. Once your application documents are perfected, submit the online OPT application to USCIS

• DO NOT START THIS PROCESS UNTIL YOU RECEIVE YOUR OPT I-20 OR YOU WILL BE DENIED

OPT Application Review Request