How long does it take for STEM OPT to be approved?

Processing times vary greatly, but you should expect USCIS to take about 90-120 days to approve your STEM OPT Extension application.

How long does it take to get stem OPT approval?

USCIS may take 3-5+ months to process the application and issue the EAD card for the STEM extension. Check current processing times on the USCIS website. OISS requests 1-2 weeks processing time to issue the new Form I-20 with the recommendation for STEM OPT extension.

Can you work while stem OPT is pending?

You can continue working & travel

Your work authorization is automatically extended for up to 180 days while the 24-month STEM OPT extension application is pending. The USCIS receipt notice is documentation of the extended authorization.

Why does stem OPT get rejected?

This frequently occurs because students are unaware of the detailed application requirements. Common mistakes include submitting the incorrect check format, missing information on the I-765 form, forgetting to sign, providing incorrect information, and using the wrong OPT code.

How long does it take to hear back from OPT?

Typically your OPT application will take 90 to 120 days to be processed by USCIS, but for a more detailed timeline for an OPT application and approval see Optional Practical Training (OPT). You must have your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card before you can begin work.

How I lost my STEM Extension 🤯

What is the shortest time for OPT approval?

According to the USCIS, the processing period for an OPT EAD card could last up to 30 days from the time of acceptance. Nevertheless, a majority of cards arrive within 7–10 days. An OPT application is expected to take 90–120 days in total.

How do I check my stem OPT status?

Tracking Your Application

USCIS will mail you a receipt notice (I-797C) with your OPT application case status number. You can track your case status at www.uscis.gov.

Does stem OPT ever get rejected?

What are common, avoidable reasons for STEM OPT Extension rejections or denials? Reason 1: USCIS received Form I-765 STEM OPT Extension application after OPT EAD end date. If USCIS receives the student's STEM OPT Extension application after their OPT EAD end, their STEM OPT Extension application will be denied.

Do people get rejected for stem OPT?

You MUST receive a STEM OPT recommendation I-20 (the "STEM OPT I-20") BEFORE applying through the mail or online to USCIS. Applying too early or without first receiving an STEM OPT I-20 could cause the rejection or denial of your application by USCIS.

Can I reapply for stem OPT if denied?

This article will talk about what to do when OPT is denied. First, you can refile your OPT application if you still have enough time to do so. According to USCIS, OPT may be applied 90 days before, but no later than 60 days after degree completion, and no later than 30 days after the OPT authorized I-20 was issued.

How much is the OPT STEM fee?

You pay the $410 OPT or STEM OPT application when you file the OPT or STEM OPT application with USCIS. An employer may choose to reimburse you for the $410 OPT or STEM OPT filing fee—if the employer chooses to do so. There is no legal requirement that the employer pay your OPT or STEM OPT filing fee.

How long can I stay unemployed on STEM OPT?

Federal law limits how long F-1 students on post-completion optional practical training (OPT) or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) OPT can be unemployed. The limits are: Post-completion OPT: 90 days. STEM OPT: 150 days, which includes any days accrued while on post-completion OPT.

Can I work 20 hours on STEM OPT?

Select a STEM OPT employer that provides the student with formal training and learning objectives. Work a minimum of 20 hours per week per employer.

What is the grace period for stem OPT?

How long can I stay in the U.S. after my Post-Completion OPT end date? There is a 60-day grace period following the end of the OPT period.

Can I apply for stem OPT twice?

To participate twice in the STEM OPT extension, a student must earn a second qualifying degree at a higher education level and must be participating in an initial period of OPT at the time they apply to USCIS for their second STEM OPT extension.

How many times can you apply for stem OPT?

You may obtain up to 2 STEM extensions provided that the second STEM extension is for a higher qualifying degree.

Do stem students get 3 years OPT?

Furthermore, the government will only grant STEM OPT to those who are in “Post-Completion” OPT. In other words, the program is for graduates, not current students. Combining Post-Completion OPT with the STEM extension allows you to stay in the US for three years after graduation on your F-1 student visa.

Do I need sponsorship if I have stem OPT?

While on OPT and STEM OPT, a student does not need sponsorship from the employer nor is any cost required by the employer.

Does OPT stem require sponsorship?

OPT is a type of F-1 off campus work authorization for degree-seeking students who wish to gain experience in jobs directly related to their major area of study. Other Characteristics of OPT: No employer sponsorship needed. Students must be enrolled for one year before applying for OPT.

What is the 6 month review for STEM OPT?

Every six months a student must work with their DSO to confirm that the student's record in SEVIS accurately reflects their current circumstance. As part of this six-month reporting, STEM OPT students must confirm that their SEVIS information correctly identifies their: Legal name. Residential or mailing address.

How do I know if my OPT is approved?

USCIS will usually send an Approval Notice within 90 days after receiving your OPT Application to confirm that your OPT request has been approved. USCIS will then process and mail the Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card).

Can you work two jobs on STEM OPT?

You may work for more than one qualifying employer while on STEM OPT, but all employment must be related to your most recently completed degree program, all employers must be enrolled in E-Verify and complete reporting requirements (i.e. I-983s), and you must work a minimum of 20 hours a week for each employer.

What is the 5 month rule for OPT?

The five month rule refers to the termination of a student's record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) based on the student being away from classes or not in status for five months.

Can I work while waiting for OPT approval?

Your approved start date will appear on your EAD card and may be later than your requested start date, depending on when you apply for OPT and how long it takes USCIS to approve it. Please note that you may not begin working until your approved EAD start date, regardless of the requested date on your I-20.

Can my OPT be denied?

Both OPT and STEM OPT have requirements that if not met can result in a denial. For purposes of this article, the requirements will be put into one of the following categories: 1) timing, 2) clerical, and compliance. For the initial post-completion OPT, an F-1 student must file an I-765 with USCIS.