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Receive a new I-20 with a recommendation for STEM OPT from International Programs. Review the I-20 for accuracy, sign and date. A copy of the STEM OPT I-20 must be included in your STEM OPT application to USCIS.
| Important note: USCIS must receive your application before your current OPT expires and within 60 days of the date the STEM OPT I-20 is issued, whichever is sooner. If you apply late, you may have less than 60 days to apply. |
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Step 5
Complete Form I-765 and compile supporting documents.
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International Programs recommends regular mail with the United States Postal Service to ship these documents. Do not use express mail.
| Important Note: If your address on the I-765 is not in Florida, refer to the USCIS Where to File instructions. |
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STEM OPT Application Checklist of Required Documentation
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Note: It is important to review the STEM OPT resources on Study in the States and the USCIS website before you submit your application. Keep a copy of all documents for your records. You are responsible for submitting the STEM OPT application within the filing deadlines.
For notification of delivery, use this form. Put this form on top of your application.
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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.”
Print completed form and sign in blue ink in Applicant Signature field.
Include original of Form I-765 in your application.
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Filing Fee | Check or money order for the Form I-765 filing fee of $410.00, made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security."
If you do not have a check with your printed name and address, you should use a money order.
You may pay by credit card using G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. See Pay With a Credit Card for details.
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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.
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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.
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Proof of identity. | Copy of biographical ID page of your passport (valid for at least six months).
Copy of most recent F-1 visa.
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Most recent I-94 arrival record. | Printout of electronic Form I-94.
Or copy of both sides of cardstock I-94.
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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.
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Evidence of STEM degree. | Official transcripts or copy of diploma that indicates the educational level and the field of study.
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FAQs
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