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Refer to the STEM OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation for the list of items to include in your application.

Final Steps

Online Filing Option: 

USCIS announced on 04/10/2021 that F-1 students can now file Form I-765 online for OPT (Optional Practical Training). 

  • Review the USCIS resource page below carefully and consult with your international student advisor to discuss online filing.
  • Students are responsible for submitting all documents required for online filing in the USCIS online account.

https://www.uscis.gov/news/news-releases/f-1-students-seeking-optional-practical-training-can-now-file-form-i-765-online

Individuals can file 11 USCIS forms online, which can all be found on the Forms Available to File Online page. To file these forms online, individuals must first create a USCIS online account at myaccount.uscis.gov. This free account allows them to:

  • Submit their forms;
  • Pay their fees;
  • Track the status of their case;
  • Communicate with USCIS through a secure inbox; and
  • Respond to Requests for Evidence.

USCIS continues to accept the latest paper version of these forms by mail.


Paper Filing:


Send your complete STEM OPT application with fee to USCIS, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

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Form G-1145

For notification of delivery, use this form. Put this form on top of your application.


Completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

Download the form to access the latest version. A typed copy is strongly recommended. It is not advisable to submit a handwritten copy.


For the field “I am applying for,” select 1.a. “Initial permission to Accept Employment” for the STEM OPT Extension application.


Use the code for STEM OPT for item 27: (c)(3)(C). Complete items 28 a., b. and c.


Answer all questions fully and accurately. State that an item is not applicable with “N/A.” If the answer is none, write “None.”


Use Part 6. Additional Information to provide all previously used SEVIS numbers and evidence of any previously authorized CPT or OPT and the academic level at which it was authorized.


Print completed form and sign in blue ink in Applicant Signature field.


Include original of Form I-765 in your application.


Filing Fee

Important Note:

USCIS may raise I-765 fee for OPT to $550 effective October 2, 2020..

  • You If you submit your OPT application mailed on or after October 2, 2020, you must check the USCIS fee amount and include the correct fee or it will be rejected.

International Programs recommends payment by money order if you submit your application to USCIS by mail.

If you file online, please follow the directions in the USCIS resources for online filing.

Copies of all I-20s.

Put a copy of your signed and dated new I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation on top.


Include a copy of your current OPT I-20 and all prior I-20s.


Check that all I-20s have your signature and date before you copy.


Copy of all previous Employment Authorization Documents (EAD cards).

Include a copy of front and back of your current OPT EAD card and any prior EAD cards.


Proof of identity.

Copy of biographical ID page of your passport (valid for at least six months).


Copy of most recent F-1 visa.


Most recent I-94 arrival record.

Printout of electronic Form I-94.


Or copy of both sides of cardstock I-94.


Two US passport-style photographs.

Two identical US passport-style color photos, taken within 30 days of filing Form I-765.


Write your name in pencil on the back of each photo.


Evidence of STEM degree.

Official transcripts or copy of diploma that indicates the educational level and the field of study.


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