New OPT filing deadlines take effect for some F-1 students

U.S. universities are alerting F-1 students to updated filing deadlines for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Northeastern University’s Office of Global Services reported that new filing deadlines for post-completion OPT applications took effect September 15, 2026.

OPT is a major employment pathway for international students after completing eligible academic programmes. Missing an applicable filing deadline can affect a student’s ability to obtain employment authorization.

Students preparing to graduate should work with their designated school official and consult current USCIS instructions before submitting an application. Because immigration rules and filing procedures can change, students should not rely on older application checklists or deadlines.

Source: Northeastern University Office of Global Services, updated September 11, 2026.