OPT & STEM Application Instructions

Document Checklist

1. STEM OPT Extension Application Form

This form must be submitted online prior to the issuance of your STEM Extension I-20. You do not need a hard copy of this form.

• • This form will ask you to upload a photocopy of your  I-983. You and your employer will complete pages 1-4. You will leave page 5 of the form blank.
  • The Form I-983 is NOT submitted to USCIS in the application packet. It is instead submitted to and retained by the International Center.

2. Form I-765 

See I-765 Instruction Page

3. Copy of signed OPT STEM Extension I-20 (Keep the original)

4. Official Transcript 

It must indicate the degree level and title of major/degree program.

5. Two new identical "natural color" passport photos

These are passport-style photos that are fewer than 30 days old. For more details on the photograph specifications, please go to: http://travel.state.gov/passport/guide/composition/composition_874.html

6. Copy of your Most Recent Form I-94

Print I-94 Form

7. Copy of BOTH your passport photo/information page showing the passport expiration date AND your most recent U.S. visa.

8. Copies of all current or previous EAD cards.

9. Application Fee 

The cost is $470 and must be paid via US credit card or debit card. 

Application Procedure

1. Complete the STEM OPT Extension Application Form
2. The International Center will review the submitted documentation and issue you a new I-20 recommending the OPT Extension. You will receive two new I-20s. The first I-20 is for the STEM Extension application packet for USCIS, while the second I-20 is for your own records and use. Both I-20s will be sent to you via USPS mail service.
3. Upon receipt of the new I-20, print it then sign and date on the student signature line at the bottom on page 1.
4. Gather all of the required documents below:
   • Application Fee
   • Passport Photos (write your name, Date of birth and I-94 number on the back of each photo)
   • Copy of OPT extension I-20 that you received from your International Student Advisor (you should keep the original)
   • Copies of any I-20s that have previous OPT or CPT authorization
   • Official transcript
   • A copy of your MOST RECENT Form I-94
   • A copy of passport photo/information page showing the passport expiration date
   • A copy of your most recent U.S. visa.
   • Copies of all current and previous EAD cards.
5. Log into your USCIS account and file Form I-765
6. When a decision is made, please send a photocopy of your results and new documents to an International Student Advisor
7. Log into your USCIS account and file Form I-765
8. When a decision is made, please send a photocopy of your results and new documents to an International        Student Advisor