International Student and Scholar Services Office of Internationalization,
University of Denver 2200 S. Josephine St. Denver, CO 80208
Phone:303-871-4912 Email: isss@du.edu Website: www.du.edu/isss/
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PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT USCIS PROCESSING AVERAGES NINETY DAYS
Important Notes
It is strongly recommended that you type information into the I-765 and print it. If USCIS is unable to read
your handwriting, it can cause delays in processing of your request. If you use a pen, make sure you use
black ink.
Be sure to sign any documents requiring your signature, such as the I-765.
Please note that ISSS does not “approve” your OPT. ISSS recommends OPT and USCIS will make the final
decision.
From the time that your program ends to the time that your EAD is received and the start date on the EAD
has arrived, you are not eligible to work on or off campus. This means any CPT will be shortened to match
your program end date.
Once you receive your new I-20 from ISSS with the OPT recommendation, USCIS must receive it within
thirty days of the date the International Student Advisor signed it. So don’t delay picking up the new I-
20!
It is highly recommended that you keep copies of all of your documents sent to USCIS
Documents Required to Request an OPT I-20
To Request an I-20 recommending OPT, submit the following documents at the International House front desk:
□ OPT Request
o Section A: You, the student, must complete sections A:
Requested OPT start date: Must be within 60 days of the day you will
complete your degree
requirements.
You cannot begin employment until you receive your Employment Authorization
Document (EAD
card) authorizing OPT and it is at least the start date indicated on the
EAD card.
o Section B: Have your Academic Advisor complete Section B.
Your advisor must indicate the term of completion and check the box indicating what this
date represents.
□ Form I-765 Type information into form, print, and sign in black ink
o To download the form go to: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765 (Click the first link)
o Please refer to the I-765 guide for detailed instructions of how to complete this form. (insert
link once available)
□ Form G-1145 (Optional) http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/files/form/g-1145.pdf
o Complete this form to receive electronic notification by USCIS when your OPT application has been
received.
□ Copies of two color passport-style photographs taken within the last 30 days. Do not submit original
photos to ISSS!
o Department of State photo requirements:
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/photos/photos.html
o Do not reuse old photos. If you reuse old passport or visa photos, you will receive a USCIS
request for new
photos that will delay the processing of your OPT application.
o Gently write your name and your I-94 number on the back of the photos.
o Do not cut, trim, or otherwise change the photographs