Step 4: Write a check or money order for application fee of $380.00, payable to “Department of Homeland Security.” Make sure the
dollar amount is written out in words as: “Three hundred eighty and 00/100” and that the check is signed and dated properly. Do not
make any corrections on the check (such as crossing out an old address and writing in a new one, etc.) checks must be preprinted with
the account holder’s name; temporary checks are not accepted. Cashier’s checks (written by the bank) are acceptable.
I have a check or money order payable to Department of Homeland Security, and the amount is written out as “Three
hundred eighty and 00/100” dollars.
Step 5: Complete Form I-765 according to the instructions. Be sure to use the International Programs Office address in section 3:
International Programs Office, One College Dr., Student Center, Room 225; Bentonville, AR 72712.
I have downloaded a Form I-765 from the USCIS website and have completed it as directed in the specific instructions
provided by USCIS, and I have used the International Programs Office Address in Section 3.
Step 6: Gather your immigration documents (passport, I-94 card, I-20(s)/DS-2019(s), prior employment authorization documents, and
any other documentation related to your immigration status) and make an appointment with an International Programs Office advisor to
submit your OPT application. Remember that you may not apply for OPT earlier than date “B” you calculated in Step 1.
I have my passport, I-94 card, I-20(s)/DS-2019(s), and any other immigration status-related documents ready. I have
scheduled an appointment to submit my OPT application to an IP advisor on:
__________________________________________
Acknowledgement (you must sign and date):
I understand that I may not request Post-OPT to begin before I complete my program or more than sixty days after I complete my
program.
If I am applying for Pre-OPT, I understand that I can only work 20 hours or less during school session and up to full time when
class is not in session. Each week I work will directly affect my Post-OPT opportunities.
I understand that during OPT I must report any changes in my name, address, or immigration status to the International Programs
Office
I understand that during OPT I must report my employment information to the International Programs Office, including my
employer’s name, address, and the dates my employment begins and ends. I understand that I must report any changes in employment
information to International Programs Office within 10 days of the change occurring.
I understand that I may not be unemployed for more than 90 days total during my entire period of Post-OPT and that periods of 10
days or less between the ending of one job and the beginning of another are not counted toward my 90-day maximum.
I understand that I may not begin employment until I have a current OPT authorization card in hand, and I may not continue
employment after the ending date on my OPT authorization card.
I understand that once my OPT authorization ends I will have a maximum of sixty days to either apply for a change of status, obtain
a new I-20/DS-2019 to continue in F-1/J-1 status, or depart the United States.
I understand that even though I may not be enrolled, my immigration status during OPT is still F-1/J-1 and I am still responsible for
complying with immigration requirements related to F-1/J-1 status.
Signature: _____________________________________________________ Date: __________________________
