The Form I-765 is the application form for OPT. We recommend using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC (available as part of Adobe Creative Cloud from the Yale Software Library).
You should read the USCIS I-765 Instructions in addition to our tips below. If you are uncertain about any question on this form, simply leave it blank and you can discuss it with an OISS adviser.
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Check the first box: Initial permission to accept employment.
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Part 2: Question 5: Your U.S. Mailing Address: Make certain that the address you put will be valid for the next 5 months as this is where your receipt and approval notice, and EAD will be sent. Mail from USCIS will not be forwarded by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any doubt where your mail will be delivered after graduation, we strongly advise that you use the OISS address (421 Temple St, New Haven CT 06511).
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Part 2: Question 27: Eligibility codes:
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Pre-Completion: (c) (3) (A)
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Post-Completion: (c) (3) (B)
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Part 2: Question 7: Some people are reporting that they are unable to enter text in these boxes. Make sure the 'No' box is selected before trying to enter text (you only need to answer this question if you answered 'No' to question 6). If you are still unable to enter text, you can insert a text box using your PDF reader, or print the form and manually enter your address.
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Part 2: Questions 28 - 31b: Leave blank
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Part 3: Question 7a: Applicant's Signature: Sign in blue ink and make sure your signature does not touch any text or lines.
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Part 4: Leave this entire section blank if an interpreter did NOT help you complete this form.
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Part 5: Leave this entire section blank if someone did NOT prepare this form on your behalf.
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Part 6: Use this section to note any of the following if applicable:
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Indicate if you have had different SEVIS numbers (records) than your current one. Indicate the dates of those records. (Citation to include: Page 3 Part 2 Item Number 27)
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Indicate if you have previously been authorized OPT(s). Be sure to include the receipt number (the number that starts with EAC, PSC, WAC, LIN, etc.), start and end dates of OPT, and academic level (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate) at which each OPT was authorized. (Citation to include: Page 3 Part 2 Item Number 27)
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Indicate if you have previously been authorized CPT(s). Be sure to include the start and end dates of CPT, and academic level (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate) at which each CPT was authorized. (Citation to include: Page 3 Part 2 Item Number 27)
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Indicate if you are a citizen of three or more countries. Be sure to include copies of those passports. (Citation to include: Page 2 Part 2 Item Number 18)
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If you are going to submit your application to USCIS by mail, you will need to print single sided and include ALL seven (7) pages of the I-765 even if they are blank. If you apply online, this PDF is just a draft to help you answer the online questions.
