Form I-765 Brandeis Supplemental Instructions
If you file your OPT/STEM OPT application by mail, you must complete a paper Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and follow the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) instructions.
If you choose to file your OPT/STEM OPT application online, you must create a USCIS account and follow the instructions to complete Form I-765 online.
In addition to the USCIS Instructions, we have the Form I-765 Brandeis Supplemental Instructions to guide you.
Premium Processing
You have the option of using Premium Processing when applying for OPT for an additional fee. If you decide to use Premium Processing you will need to complete the Form I-907 and pay a fee of $1685. Please consider current USCIS processing times, EAD issuance time, and your anticipated employment start date before paying for Premium Processing.
NOTE: You must file Form I-765 while in the United States. If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form I-765, your application will be denied and may lead to the denial of other immigration benefits.
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- What is your reason for applying?
- Select “Initial permission to accept employment” for an OPT application and a STEM OPT Extension application.
- Have you previously filed a Form I-765?
- Answer "Yes" if you have filed a Form I-765 in the past.
- Answer "No" if this is the FIRST I-765 you have filed.
- Enter your name exactly as stated on your passport.
- If you have another name that you use, such as an alias, nickname, and/or your maiden name (name used prior to marriage - typically applies to women who are married and have changed their last name) - please list them in the “Other Names Used” section.
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The mailing address you list here should be valid for at least the next 3-5 months. USCIS will mail all correspondence to this address.
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If you are using a friend's address (where you do not reside) be sure to list your friend's name in the “In Care of Name (if any)” line.
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If the address you provide is not the same as your physical address, make sure you select the “No” choice and then proceed to provide your current physical U.S. Address.
DO NOT use the Brandeis University ISSO mailing address.
Answer these questions about you.
- If you do not have a Social Security number and you would like to be issued one, answer the questions and follow the instructions.
- Provide your parent’s names only if you want to apply for a Social Security card
From the File a Form section:
- Choose the I-765, Application for Employment Authorization from the drop-down menu
Then choose the category of employment you are applying for:
- Pre-Completion OPT (work authorization before you graduate): (c) (3) (A)
Sign and date the application by hand. Electronic signatures will not be accepted by USCIS.
Complete the interpreter's contact information only if you had an interpreter or agent complete this form on your behalf.
Complete this if you have additional information to provide, such as additional countries of citizenship, employment authorization you received in the form of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training, and/or previous SEVIS ID numbers.
To report past work authorization iinclude:
- Current SEVIS ID
- Degree Level
- Previous Employment Authorization (CPT or OPT) Start and End Dates
- Part-time or Full-Time