Once you have submitted your OPT application to USCIS, you will enter a waiting period while your case is reviewed. During this time, it’s important to understand what to expect, what you are allowed to do, and what your responsibilities are as an F-1 student on pending OPT.
USCIS Processing Times
Check USCIS’s current OPT and STEM OPT processing times here for the most accurate estimate.
On average, student's applications are adjudicated within 90-120 days.
You can also use your Receipt Number (found on your I-797C Receipt Notice) to track the status of your specific USCIS application on the USCIS Case Status website.
Premium Processing Option
USCIS offers premium processing for OPT and STEM OPT extensions application. Premium processing provides expedited processing services within 30 business days. Premium processing is submitted through Online Filing of USCIS Form I-907 and is available to F-1 students in categories (c)(3)(B), and (c)(3)(C). Form I-907 can be filed as a part of the I-765 submission, or filed separately after the I-765 has already been submitted.
This is a non-refundable fee. Review USCIS premium processing fee and FAQ's for more information.
As of August 2025, the premium processing fee for OPT is $1,685 USD.
While Your OPT Application is Pending
If your program end date on your I-20 has passed, you cannot work on OR off campus until your OPT is approved, your EAD card is in hand, and your approved start date has arrived.
Traveling While Your Application is Pending
It is strongly advised not to travel outside the U.S. while your OPT application is pending, as doing so carries significant risks.
- If you travel before your program end date, your re-entry will generate a new I-94 record, which may no longer match the one submitted with your OPT application and could result in a Request for Evidence (RFE).
- If you travel after your program end date, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may deny your re-entry during or after your 60-day grace period unless you have your physical EAD card in hand showing OPT approval.
If you must travel during this time, contact your DSO about your options and things to keep in mind.
Request for Further Evidence (RFE)
In some cases, USCIS may request additional documentation from you by sending a Request for Further Evidence (RFE). You will also receive an RFE if your application is not complete or was submitted with missing documents.
If you receive an RFE, USCIS will explain why you are receiving the RFE and what documentation you need to provide. It is important that you reply to the RFE immediately to ensure that your OPT Application is still adjudicated.
Receiving an RFE will delay the processing time.
I-797 Approval Notice & Your EAD Card
Once USCIS has finished reviewing your OPT application, you will first receive an I-797 Notice of Action (Approval Notice). This is an official letter confirming that your OPT has been approved. Keep this notice in a safe place, it is an important immigration document and serves as proof of your approved OPT request.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card)
After the approval notice, USCIS will mail your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). This card is your official proof of work authorization in the U.S. It will list your name, photo, and the specific dates of your OPT work authorization.
Denial of your OPT Application
If your application has been denied or rejected by USCIS, please email your DSO as soon as possible and attach a copy of your rejection letter or denial notice.
If your I-765 is denied, the duration of your legal F-1 status reverts to being defined as lasting through the I-20 program end date plus 60 days of grace period. If you are still within the grace period, you may stay in the U.S. for the remainder of the 60 days and you may still have the opportunity to submit a new OPT Application.
Withdrawing/Cancelling your pending OPT Application:
Delays in Completing Academic Program
To authorize post-completion Optional Practical Training, your I-20 was shortened to reflect your new program end date. If you cannot complete your program on time, you must meet with your DSO immediately.
Cancelling OPT Application
Students may cancel their application as long as it has not been approved by USCIS. Contact USCIS directly and provide your case number (on your Receipt Notice). If you need to cancel your application, please contact your DSO immediately so we can assist you with this process. Once an EAD card is issued, the OPT cannot be cancelled, so please plan accordingly.
Starting a new program at UC Merced
If you decide to start a new academic program at UC Merced while your OPT Application is pending with USCIS, email your DSO about changing your program level and what to do.
Starting a new program at a new institution
If your OPT Application is still pending, it is advised that you withdraw/cancel your application with USCIS. After that, proceed with the Transfer Out instructions to schedule a date to transfer your SEVIS record.
