» STEM OPT Application Process

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You must meet the following criteria to apply for the 24-Month STEM OPT extension:

You are currently on active F-1 post-completion OPT.
You have completed a degree, or have a prior degree at the bachelor’s level or higher, in a field that is currently included on DHS’ STEM Designated Degree Program List.
You have not received OPT before for the same degree level or higher.
You accumulate less than 90 days of unemployment time during the entire period of post-completion OPT.
You must have a current STEM field approved employer at the time of application.
Your position must be directly related to your STEM degree.
Your position must be paid with at least 20 working hours per week.
Your employer must be registered and in good standing with the E-Verify program as determined by USCIS.
You and your employer agree to submit Form I-983.

When to Apply: you can file for STEM OPT with USCIS as early as 90 days before your current OPT expiration date (EAD card expiration date) but your application must be received by USCIS before the expiration date of your OPT. Failure to file within this application window will result in automatic denial.

Step 1: Review

Step 2: Request for STEM OPT I-20 from ISS

You must upload a completed form I-983 through the online I-20 request form. To complete form I-983, please refer to form I-983 instructions.
For accuracy, please make sure your information on your OPT I-20 is correct.
Sign and save your copy.
The STEM OPT I-20 is only valid for 60 days.
USCIS must receive your I-765 application before the expiration of the STEM OPT I-20 or EAD card whichever comes first.

Step 3: Apply with USCIS: file form I-765 online.

On the form I-765, you must select Eligibility Category “(C)(3)(C), 24-month STEM OPT extension”.

I-765 step-by-step instructions.

You must upload the following documents on your online application:

New 2 x 2 passport style photo.
Copy of Passport information/photo page (valid for at least 6 months).
Copy of your F-1 Visa.
STEM OPT I-20 from ISS.
Copy of all previously issued EAD cards (front and back).
Your latest I-94 record.
Copy of your qualifying STEM U.S. Degree.
Copy of your official transcripts (for your qualifying U.S. Degree).
- Request your degree certificate and transcript at Registar Services.
USCIS I-765 Filing Fee paid via credit card or direct bank withdrawal at “Review and Submit” section of e-File system.
USCIS reviews the application and makes a decision. Within three weeks from filing, you will receive a Receipt Notice of Action (Form I-797) in the mail with your case number.

If you file your STEM OPT extension application on time and your OPT period expires while your extension application is pending, your EAD card will automatically extend for 180 days. This automatic 180-day extension ceases once USCIS adjudicates your STEM OPT extension application.

You can use the case number to check the status of your application online at USCIS Check Case Status.

You should expect the decision of your application in 90 days of your receipt date. If approved, you can expect a new EAD card to arrive within 2 weeks of the decision date.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact iss@chapman.edu.

International Student Services provides general guidance. Any advice provided to you by the ISS should not be construed as legal advice.

Additionally, due to the fluid nature of governmental interpretation, government agencies such as USCIS/ICE/CBP may change their interpretation of immigration laws/regulations and eligibility requirements for benefits at any time. We will do our best to provide the most current guidance.

Each case is fact-specific and it is advised that you contact an experienced immigration attorney if you have questions regarding your situation.

» STEM OPT Application Process

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