thapap, Thanks for the correction. Your comments differ from this below doc. Let me know if you think this doc holds any truth. Special Information for Optional Practical Training Related to the Completion of Your Degree. Here is the URL. Please refer to the doc for more info. http://www.unm.edu/~oips/all_handouts/OPT%20.doc • Application Deadline You should submit an application to the International Advisor during the period that begins 120 days before you complete your program of study. However, USCIS MUST receive your application BEFORE the completion of the requirements for your degree or program at the latest (application procedures are described below). If you complete your studies without applying for OPT, you are no longer eligible to apply for the training. Immigration regulations refer to the date you complete all requirements for a program of study, not to the date the degree is conferred or to the date you participate in graduation ceremonies and receive a certificate or diploma. The USCIS ignores your graduation date because it realizes that many students, especially graduate students in thesis or dissertation programs, may complete requirements for a degree any day during the year. This means that the day you complete the last requirement for the degree will be your “completion date”. Your lawful F-1 status expires 60 days after the date you complete degree requirements and you are expected to leave the country by that date unless you have already filed an application for practical training or made other arrangements to lawfully remain in the U.S. Please contact the Office of International Programs and Studies with questions.