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F-1 students may request Post-Completion OPT to obtain work in their field of study once per educational level (associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral). Students are allowed 12 months of work during the 14-month period following completion of studies. Employment must be related to the field of study.
Please make an appointment with ISS to check OPT eligibility and discuss application directions. Students should verify their graduation quarter with their advisor before meeting with ISS. View complete information on applying for Optional Practical Training.
To obtain a Social Security number you must be employed. Once you receive a job offer from an employer, you may apply for a Social Security Number for Optional Practical Training or in the case of a financial hardship. Steps for doing so are featured below.
Go to the Social Security Administration no earlier than the start date of your employment authorization. You will need your:
- Application for Social Security Card
- Passport - not expired
- Current I-94
- I-20 from MCC
- I-766 - work permit/employment authorization card