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OPT Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for OPT, undergraduate and graduate F-1 students must:

• Have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year

• Maintain valid F-1 status at the time of application

• File within the application window (up to 90 days before and no later than 60 days after program completion)

• Seek employment directly related to their major field of study

Final OPT approval is made by USCIS. Students should meet with the Designated School Official before applying. 

OPT Duration

• Standard OPT: Up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization
• STEM Extension: Students with qualifying degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension

CalMU's STEM-designated programs include:

• Master of Science in Computer Information Systems
• Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
• Master of Business Administration with Data Analytics concentration

OPT Application Process

• Attend an OPT Workshop: The International Student Office offers regular workshops explaining the OPT application process.
• Meet with DSO: Schedule an appointment with the Designated School Official to review your eligibility and required documentation.
• Prepare and Submit Form I-765: The DSO will help you prepare Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and supporting documents.
• USCIS Processing: Submit your application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for processing (typically takes 90-120 days).
• Receive EAD Card: Once approved, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.

Important OPT Policies