Optional practical training, which was created by the Immigration Naturalization Service in a July 20, 1992 revision of the F-1 student regulations, combines the previous categories of pre-completion and post-completion practical training. Under these regulations an F-1 student is entitled to up to 12 months of optional practical training after each level in F-1 status. (If however, you complete one academic program and leave the United States for more then five months before returning to begin a new academic program you are given a new 12-month period of optional practical training.)
You may obtain authorization for optional practical training after completion of a course of study and submission of thesis or dissertation. You must apply before graduation.