Requesting STEM Extension
STEM OPT Extension applications are a two part process. The first part is with ISS and obtaining an I-20 with the STEM Extension recommendation. The second part is filing the I-765 application with USCIS.
Part 1: Submit to ISS
To request your STEM OPT Extension (i.e., your I-20 with the STEM OPT recommendation), you will need to submit the STEM OPT Recommendation I-20 Request.
- Completed Form I-983
- Payment confirmation of the non-refundable $300 STEM OPT Maintenance Charge. Select Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM Extension, and Post-Completion Academic Training (AT) Maintenance Charge on the payment website.
Part 2: Submit to USCIS
For the most up to date instructions, online form link, and filing fees, review USCIS's website, I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The application may required the following additional documentation:
- Most recent I-94 admission record
- Passport identity/validity page
- If you are filing online, upload an electronic copy of this document to the EAD evidence page (if you do not have a previous EAD card). If you have an EAD card, upload it to the I-94 evidence page.
- Most recent F-1 visa stamp
- Signed I-20 with STEM Extension recommendation
- This document will be provided by ISS. Your STEM Extension recommendation will be listed on page two.
- Important: Your application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of when the STEM Extension I-20 was issued.
- Current EAD card (front and back)
- Copy of STEM degree transcripts, if filing STEM extension based on a previous degree
- Previous I-20s with CPT or OPT authorizations, if any
- Previous EAD cards (copy of front and back)
- Previous I-20s issued under different SEVIS IDs, if any
- If you previously held J-1 status, include a copy of your previous DS-2019.
Important Reminders
- ISS must have a fully complete copy of the I-983 (with all signature spaces signed and all information correct) before we can issue the STEM OPT I-20. If corrections are needed on your I-983, we must have the corrected form with signatures before we can process your I-20.
- Do not file your online application without the STEM OPT I-20. This document is a key component of the application, and it must be included at the time you file. Filing without the STEM OPT I-20 can lead to a denial of your application. Depending on when you receive notice of the denial, you may not have enough time remaining in your legal filing window to re-file the application.
- Temporary 180-day Extension of Employment Authorization: Applicants who have timely filed a complete I-765 application for the STEM OPT extension will have an automatic 180-day extension of their current OPT work authorization. This temporary extension begins the day after your 12-month OPT period ends.
Communication from USCIS
If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Denial Notice, send a copy of the communication to ISS right away. These documents are time sensitive and have the potential to impact your legal F-1 status and your permission to remain in the U.S.
When your EAD card has arrived, Upload your EAD card to ISS.