Understanding Your Application Timeline
Getting approved for OPT can take months, so it's important to know when to apply and how to understand your application timeline. Students have a limited time window to apply for OPT.
You can apply for OPT:
- No earlier than 90 days before your program end date/expected completion date.
- No later than 60 days after your program end date/expected completion date**.
- No later than 30 days after the “Date Issued” on your OPT I-20.
** Undergraduate Students: The program end date is usually the last day of your final graduating quarter.
** Graduate Students: The program end date is the last day in the semester in which program requirements are completed, OR the date the thesis or dissertation is filed with Graduate Division. Graduate students who only have a dissertation/thesis remaining may be eligible to begin their post-completion OPT before filing.
Calculate Your Own OPT Timeline Here!
Complete Your OPT Homebase Course
Before your DSO can issue your OPT Request I-20, you are required to complete the OPT Homebase Course. This course is designed to ensure that you fully understand the regulations, responsibilities, and common questions surrounding OPT. By reviewing this information carefully, you will be better prepared to submit a complete and accurate application.
Completing this course is not just a formality—it is an essential step in protecting your F-1 status. OPT is a benefit with strict rules, and even small mistakes can have serious consequences. Failure to complete the course or misunderstanding the requirements may result in application errors, delays, or even OPT denial.
Email your DSO at kveloz@ucmerced.edu to request the OPT Homebase Course link
After completing the course, you will receive a certification that you will submit to your DSO.
Request Your OPT Request I-20
Before applying to USCIS for OPT, you must first receive a new I-20 with an OPT recommendation from your DSO. This step confirms your eligibility and ensures that your application is accurate and complete.
To request your OPT I-20, please collect the following documents:
- The OPT Homebase Course Certificate
- And your fully filled out OPT I-20 Request Form
This form must be signed by your academic or faculty advisor to confirm your program completion date.
Once you have these two forms, email them to kveloz@ucmerced.edu to officially request your OPT Request I-20.
Please allow 3-5 business days of processing time and be sure to submit your documents as early as possible to avoid delays.
