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Optional Practical Training is an employment benefit offered through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that allows international students with F-1 status to gain 12 months of off-campus work experience in their fields of study. Graduating F-1 students who are eligible and interested in applying for Post OPT work authorization are encouraged to apply early. The earliest the International Students and Scholars Center will accept applications is Jan. 27, 2019.Application completion datesThe completion of studies date for undergraduate students is the last day of classes or, in most cases, the date of graduation. The spring graduation date is May 6, 2019.The completion of studies date for graduate students depends on program requirements. Completion includes dissertation approval after defense, receipt of comprehensive exam results or project defense. Please consult with your academic advisor.The USCIS does not require proof of employment with your application for Post-OPT.I want to apply →To allow for both the 10-day ISSC processing time and 90-day USCIS processing time, ASU recommends applying for OPT at least 100 days prior to your program completion date so you can receive your Employment Authorization Document card before completing your program.Information sessions You are invited to attend one of our upcoming OPT sessions to learn about the application process.Thursday, Jan. 249 – 10 a.m., in the Faculty Administration Building, room B17, West campusFriday, Jan. 252 – 3 p.m., in the Student Services building, room 165 Amphitheater, Tempe campusTuesday, Jan. 293:30 – 4:30 p.m., in the University Center, room 130, Downtown Phoenix campusThursday, Jan. 313:30 – 4:30 p.m., in the Administration building, room 140, Polytechnic campusIf you can’t make it to one of the sessions above, don’t worry. Take a look at the schedule of spring OPT and CPT information sessions for more options.Spring OPT and CPT information sessions  →Please contact the International Students and Scholars Center with any questions about your OPT application at 480-727-4776 or issc.employment@asu.edu.