Are you an F-1 student interested in gaining work experience in the U.S. after completing your degree at UT? If so, you should consider applying for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT allows students in valid F-1 status to gain up to 12 months of work experience in their field of study. Work authorization for OPT is granted by USCIS, and processing times take an average of 2-3 months. If you plan to travel after graduation or would like to be able to start working soon after the May graduation date, then you should apply for OPT before the end of February. Now is the ideal time to apply for OPT for May graduates!

How to Apply

In order to apply for post-completion OPT you must first attend an OPT Workshop. Please use our online scheduler to make a workshop reservation.  Workshops take place every Monday and Friday in the International Office (2400 Nueces Street, Suite B). You must sign up in advance in order to attend. After you have attended the workshop, gather the required application documents and schedule an individual student advising appointment to complete the OPT application process.