Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides up to 12 months of temporary work authorization with an F-1 visa status while enrolled full-time at Wheaton. All employment must be directly related to your academic program.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for OPT, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have maintained valid, full-time F-1 student status for at least one full academic year.
  • You do not need a job offer to apply for OPT.

When can I use OPT?

OPT can be authorized for use at different times throughout your program:

  • Pre-Completion OPT (while still enrolled full-time at Wheaton):
    • Part-time (20 hours or fewer per week) while classes are in session
    • Full-time during official school vacation periods
  • Post-Completion OPT (after graduation):
    • Full-time (more than 20 hours per week) after your graduation from Wheaton

Note: If you have already used 12 months or more of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you are no longer eligible for OPT.

Application Deadlines

You may apply for OPT at the end of February or early March during your senior year. If you plan to complete your studies in December, you will need to apply in September.

Next steps

Social Security Number (SSN): You must obtain a Social Security card before you physically begin working. You can request this during your initial OPT application.

Submit employment verification: You must fill out and submit the OPT Employment Verification Form   (Google Form) within 10 days of starting any job to report your employer details and maintain legal status.Questions?

For questions about Optional Practical Training, contact [email protected].