OPT Handbook for F-1 Students Office of Global Strategies & International Affairs
Receipt Number: The case number for the OPT application at USCIS. Check the status of the case on the USCIS web site at https://www.uscis.gov.
Received Date: Date when USCIS begins processing the application. (It may not be the actual the application was received, but it is when the case was entered into the system.)
Address Information: Verify your name, date of birth, and address on the I-765 receipt notice. If incorrect, contact your DSO immediately.
Contacting USCIS If you have any problems or questions with the OPT application, contact your KSU advisor (DSO) before calling the USCIS Customer Service
WHEN RECEIVED
Review your EAD card to make sure the information is accurate. If it is not, contact your DSO immediately!
Present your EAD to employers as proof of your legal work authorization in the US.
The EAD is a required document for entry to the U.S. during OPT.
You can ONLY work during the dates listed on the approved EAD card- not before and not after!
Send a copy of your EAD card to your DSO
EAD Errors: What happens if your EAD card has incorrect information on it?
Wait to receive a job offer so you can show your EAD to your employer. The correction process may require you to mail the incorrect EAD to USCIS. Ideally, you should wait to request the correction after your employer has copied your EAD for hiring purposes.
To correct the EAD, submit a request through the USCIS website to correct a typographic error.
Track Your Case
Sign up for an account at https://www.uscis.gov. This will allow you to receive automatic updates and monitor your case. Click "Check Your Case Status" and then select "Sign Up."
General Case Tracking: If you don't sign up for an account, you can still track your case using the "Check Your Case Status" Tool.