File the USCIS Online I-765 for OPT STEM
Begin working on your OPT STEM Application 90 days prior to your OPT end date. Applications will not be accepted after your OPT end date. Allow 3-5 business days to receive your STEM OPT I-20 after receipt of accurate, completed application documents. You must have a position in your field of study with a company who participates in e-verify to be eligible to apply for your STEM OPT extension. Also, it's very important to note that an E-Verify # and an EIN # are two different numbers--don't mix them by accident!
Premium Processing
On March 6, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the expansion of premium processing for certain F-1 students applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT Extensions. The premium processing fee is $1,685 with a 30-calendar day processing timeframe for a decision on your complete application. Students can choose to select the premium processing option while completing the online USCIS application.
*********************PLEASE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION BELOW**********************
Note that you should proceed with the online application process very carefully. The system allows you to submit your application without all required evidence, which can lead to requests for evidence and additional difficulties. This means you must be very careful to ensure that everything is included before submitting the online application. The step by step instructions below are not intended to be legal advice. They are general instructions for how you might proceed when completing the online I-765 application.
DO NOT SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION ONLINE UNTIL AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED STEPS 1-3
Step 1. Return to your USCIS account that was used to apply for Post-completion OPT and fill in the STEM OPT application (I-765 Form)
- Follow the Step by Step Instructions
- To complete the online I-765, you must have these documents
Step 2. Submit the STEM OPT I-20 Request (you MUST upload the documents below)
Note: Applications cannot be accepted until the STEM OPT I-20 Request has been submitted with documents uploaded.
- Completed saved Draft I-765 from your USCIS STEM OPT online application
- Diploma or Transcript-Copy of your most recent diploma in a STEM field (If diploma is not available, a copy of your transcript showing your degree completion is required). Official Transcripts can be ordered here to send along with your application if you do not have a copy of your diploma.
- Form I-983 for each employer you will be working for while on STEM OPT extension. Review sample I-983 to complete your form. (See Form I-983 Instruction & Information for Section I to complete & submit only pages 1-4.) Note: this form should not be uploaded with your OPT STEM Application. Electronic signatures are acceptable.
Step 3. Receive your STEM OPT I-20 showing OPT recommendation
- Your DSO will review your STEM OPT extension request and Draft I-765 prior to creating your STEM OPT extension I-20. You will receive your STEM OPT I-20 by email in 3-5 business days. You should print the I-20, sign and save electronic copies of page 1 and 2 to upload to your USCIS OPT STEM application.
Step 4. Return to your USCIS account and log in to upload your STEM OPT I-20 and submit the application.
Be sure to save all the required evidence documentation and the draft form I-765 for your records. You will not be able to access your information on the USCIS online application after 30 days.
Review the STEM OPT Reporting Requirements
