OPT Recommendation Request

What Is It?

The OPT Recommendation Request service allows eligible F-1 students to request an Optional Practical Training (OPT) recommendation from International Student Services (ISS).

If approved, ISS will update your SEVIS record and issue a new Form I-20 containing the OPT recommendation. You will use this updated I-20 when submitting your OPT application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

OPT authorization is granted by USCIS, not by SLCC. Students must submit Form I-765 and all required documentation directly to USCIS after receiving the updated I-20.

Typical processing time for the ISS recommendation is 3–5 business days

Who or What is Eligible?

You may be eligible to request OPT if you:

  • Are maintaining valid F-1 student status.
  • Have completed at least one academic year of full-time study.
  • Have earned at least 24 credits toward your program.
  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Are in your final semester or within your program completion period.
  • Have applied for graduation or can verify your expected graduation date.

International Student Services will verify eligibility before issuing an OPT recommendation.

How Do I Make a Request or Report an Issue?

Before submitting your OPT Recommendation Request:

  1. Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements for OPT.
  2. Apply for graduation or obtain verification of your expected graduation date.
  3. Collect all required OPT application documents.
  4. Combine all required documents into a single PDF file.

Required file naming format:

StudentID_OPTAuthorization_CurrentSemester

Example:

S0012345_OPTAuthorization_Summer2026

Required documentation may include:

  • Most recent I-94
  • Passport identification page
  • Visa
  • Driver’s License (if available)
  • Copies of all previously issued I-20s
  • Program completion verification
  • Previous EAD card (if applicable)
  • Any additional documentation requested by ISS

After your request is submitted, ISS will review your eligibility and documentation. If approved, an updated Form I-20 with OPT recommendation will be issued.

When Not to Use These Services

Do not use this service if:

  • You are requesting Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
  • You are requesting On-Campus Employment authorization.
  • You have not yet met the minimum eligibility requirements for OPT.
  • You are not near program completion or graduation.
  • You are requesting assistance with an existing USCIS case after submitting Form I-765.

If you need assistance with another immigration benefit or student service, please select the appropriate service from the ISS Service Catalog.