US OPT Window for May 2026 Grads

US universities have started reminding international students graduating around May 2026 that they can start planning and filing for Optional Practical Training (OPT)—the work authorisation available to eligible F-1 students after (and sometimes before) completing a degree.

OPT rules have not changed with this reminder, but the timelines are strict, and missing them can lead to a denial.

What’s the key rule students need to remember?

For post-completion OPT, students can file Form I-765 within a fixed window tied to their programme end date, and they also must file soon after their DSO issues the OPT recommendation in SEVIS.

OPT is temporary employment directly related to an F-1 student’s major field of study, typically up to 12 months (STEM extension rules apply separately).

USCIS instructions warn that students must file Form I-765 within 30 days of the date the DSO enters the OPT recommendation in SEVIS, or USCIS will deny the OPT request.

Why this is coming up for May 2026 graduates?

The Financial Express report notes multiple US universities are flagging the OPT application window for students finishing programmes around May 2026. This typically happens each spring as DSOs start handling high volumes of OPT requests.

Impact on Indian students in the US

For Indian students on F-1 visas, OPT is often the bridge between graduation and a longer-term work pathway. The main risk is procedural: OPT requires school-side steps first (DSO/SEVIS + updated I-20) before the USCIS filing is made. Missing the 30-day post-recommendation filing rule is a common avoidable error.

What students should do next

• Book your DSO appointment early (many campuses get backlogged close to graduation).
• Do not file I-765 until you have the OPT-recommended I-20 (DSO recommendation entered in SEVIS).
• File within 30 days of the DSO recommendation date shown/recorded for OPT.
• Confirm your fee on USCIS’ official Fee Calculator at the time you submit (fees and payment rules can change).