- There is the risk of a gap in employment authorization if you must submit a second OPT application and the timing is not perfect.
- It is challenging to take advantage of the full 12 months of OPT allotted to you because of the dual applications.
Post-completion OPT
Post-completion OPT can begin either while you complete your thesis/dissertation or after you graduate. Procedurally, however, the OPT start date can only fall after the I-20 end date, so your I-20 will be shortened to the end of the semester in which you submit the OPT application.
Pros
- You will only submit one application and fee.
- You are not required to register for the purpose of maintaining F1 status (though you must consult with your department about registration requirements depending on your funding, defense semester, and ability to apply for on-leave status).
Cons
- You are subject to the 90-day unemployment limit, an added pressure if you still need to focus on your thesis/dissertation.
- The I-20 cannot be extended. If you do not complete your thesis/dissertation within the OPT period, your F-1 status ends when the OPT expires, and you must travel and reenter with a new I-20 to continue your studies.
2. What is the start date and which date should I select for start date?
- The “start date” is the date your work permission begins. You cannot work earlier than the start date, but you can start working later.
- Your requested start date must be within 60 days after your program completion date. For example, if you graduate or if your final enrolled semester ends on May 8, your start date can be no later than July 7. However, if you think it will be challenging to find a job, you should select a later start date to ensure you do not waste your OPT time. Keep in mind if you find a job before this date, you won't be able to start working until you have the EAD card in hand and the OPT period has begun.
- Changing the requested OPT dates after the application has been mailed to USCIS can be very difficult. Choose your dates carefully.