STEM OPT EXTENSION FILING PACKET

FORM I-765 CATEGORY (c)(3)(C) — 24-MONTH STEM EXTENSION

COMPREHENSIVE APPLICATION GUIDE WITH FORM I-983 TRAINING PLAN FRAMEWORK

DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND INSTRUCTIONS

This template provides a comprehensive filing packet guide for the 24-month STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(c)(3)(C). The STEM OPT extension allows F-1 students who have earned degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) designated fields from SEVP-certified institutions to extend their post-completion OPT by an additional 24 months.

Key Deadlines and Timing:
- The I-765 application must be filed before the current OPT EAD expires.
- The student must request a STEM OPT recommendation from the DSO, and the I-20 must be signed within 60 days before the current OPT EAD expiration date.
- If the application is filed timely, employment authorization is automatically extended for 180 days while the application is pending, per 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(b)(6)(iv).

Instructions:
1. Replace all bracketed placeholders with actual case-specific information.
2. Coordinate with the Designated School Official (DSO) to obtain the STEM OPT I-20 recommendation.
3. Ensure the employer is enrolled in E-Verify before filing.
4. Delete all instructional comments and inapplicable sections before finalizing.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CHECKLIST

Before preparing the filing packet, confirm all eligibility requirements are met:

A. Student Eligibility Requirements

☐ Currently in valid F-1 status
☐ Currently in an approved period of post-completion OPT
☐ Has earned a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree from a SEVP-certified institution in a STEM-designated degree program (listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List)
☐ The STEM degree is the basis for the current OPT (or a previously obtained STEM degree from a SEVP-certified institution that has not previously been used as the basis for a STEM OPT extension)
☐ Has not previously received two STEM OPT extensions (lifetime maximum of two STEM extensions based on two different qualifying degrees at a higher degree level)
☐ Is currently employed by an E-Verify participating employer in a position directly related to the STEM degree
☐ Has been working at least 20 hours per week for the employer
☐ Has not been unemployed for an aggregate of more than 90 days during the initial 12-month OPT period
☐ Has a valid passport (or has applied for renewal)

B. Employer Eligibility Requirements

☐ Enrolled in E-Verify and in good standing
☐ Has a valid E-Verify Company ID number
☐ Has an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes
☐ Will provide compensation that is commensurate with compensation provided to similarly situated U.S. workers
☐ Will sign and comply with the Form I-983 Training Plan
☐ Has sufficient resources and trained personnel to provide the training described in the I-983
☐ The student's employment will not replace a full- or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker

C. DSO and Institutional Requirements

☐ DSO has reviewed the student's eligibility and Form I-983
☐ DSO has recommended the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS
☐ DSO has issued a new I-20 with the STEM OPT recommendation (within 60 days of OPT expiration)
☐ Student has signed the I-20
☐ DSO has entered the employer information in SEVIS

PART II — APPLICANT AND EMPLOYER INFORMATION

A. Student/Applicant Information

B. STEM Degree Information

C. Employer Information

PART III — FILING PACKET ASSEMBLY ORDER

Assemble the STEM OPT extension filing packet in the following order:

Tab 1: Cover Letter

☐ Cover letter (see Part IV below)

Tab 2: Form I-765

☐ Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (signed and dated)
- Eligibility Category: (c)(3)(C) — STEM OPT Extension
- Complete all sections per current I-765 instructions
- If filing electronically, follow the USCIS online filing instructions

Tab 3: Filing Fee

☐ Filing fee: $470 (as of April 2024)
- Check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security"
- OR credit card payment via Form G-1450 (if filing by mail)
- OR electronic payment (if filing online)

☐ Optional: Premium Processing Fee (Form I-907): $1,780 (effective March 1, 2026)
- Submit Form I-907 with separate payment

Tab 4: Form I-20 with STEM OPT Recommendation

☐ Copy of the new Form I-20 with DSO STEM OPT recommendation
- Page 1 must reflect the STEM OPT recommendation
- Must be signed by both the DSO and the student
- DSO recommendation date must be within 60 days of current OPT EAD expiration
- Verify the SEVIS ID, degree information, and employer information are correct

Tab 5: Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students

☐ Completed Form I-983 signed by both the employer (appropriate signatory) and the student
- Section 1: Student Information (completed by student)
- Section 2: Student Certification (signed by student)
- Section 3: Employer Information (completed by employer)
- Section 4: Employer Certification (signed by employer — must be someone with signatory authority)
- Section 5: Training Plan Details (completed jointly)
- Note: The I-983 is submitted to the DSO, not directly to USCIS. However, include a copy in the USCIS filing packet.

Tab 6: Form G-1145

☐ Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance (recommended for receipt notification)

Tab 7: Identity and Immigration Documents

☐ Copy of passport biographical page (valid for duration of requested extension or with explanation)
☐ Copy of most recent I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (printout from CBP website)
☐ Copy of current EAD card (front and back)
☐ Copies of all prior EAD cards (front and back)
☐ Copy of current F-1 visa stamp (if available — not required if not traveling)

Tab 8: Passport Photographs

☐ Two (2) identical passport-style photographs meeting USCIS specifications:
- Color photograph, 2" x 2"
- Taken within the last 30 days
- White background
- Full face, front view
- Write the applicant's name and SEVIS ID on the back of each photo (lightly, in pencil)

Tab 9: Prior OPT/CPT Authorization Evidence

☐ Copies of all prior I-20s reflecting CPT and OPT authorization
☐ Copies of all prior EAD cards
☐ Evidence of prior OPT employment (offer letters, pay stubs)

Tab 10: Employer Verification Letter

☐ Employer verification letter on company letterhead confirming:
☐ Student's job title and detailed duties
☐ How the position directly relates to the STEM degree
☐ Hours per week (minimum 20)
☐ Compensation amount and form (salary, stipend, etc.)
☐ Supervisor name and contact information
☐ Employer's E-Verify enrollment and Company ID number
☐ Confirmation that the student is not replacing a U.S. worker
☐ Date of hire and anticipated duration of employment

Tab 11: E-Verify Documentation

☐ Screenshot or printout of employer's E-Verify enrollment confirmation
☐ E-Verify Company ID number verification
☐ MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with E-Verify (if available)

PART IV — COVER LETTER

[DATE: [__/__/____]]

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
[________________________________]
[Insert USCIS filing address — Lockbox or Service Center per current I-765 instructions]

RE: Application for STEM OPT Extension — Form I-765, Category (c)(3)(C)
Applicant: [________________________________]
SEVIS ID: [________________________________]
Current EAD Number: [________________________________]
Current EAD Expiration: [__/__/____]

Dear Sir or Madam:

Enclosed please find the application for a 24-month STEM OPT extension under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(c)(3)(C) on behalf of [APPLICANT NAME]. [He/She/They] is an F-1 student currently authorized for post-completion Optional Practical Training, with a current EAD expiring on [DATE].

Summary of Enclosed Materials:

[APPLICANT NAME] holds a [DEGREE LEVEL] degree in [STEM FIELD] (CIP Code: [CODE]) from [INSTITUTION NAME], a SEVP-certified institution, conferred on [DATE]. [He/She/They] is currently employed by [EMPLOYER NAME], an E-Verify participating employer (E-Verify Company ID: [NUMBER]), as a [JOB TITLE], working [NUMBER] hours per week at an annual salary of $[AMOUNT].

The Designated School Official at [INSTITUTION NAME] has reviewed the applicant's eligibility and issued a STEM OPT recommendation on the enclosed Form I-20, dated [DATE]. The Form I-983 Training Plan has been executed by both the applicant and the employer.

Contents of this filing packet:

1. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (Category (c)(3)(C))
2. Filing fee of $470 [payment method]
3. Form I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation (signed by DSO and student)
4. Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (signed by employer and student)
5. Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application Acceptance
6. Copy of passport biographical page
7. Copy of I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
8. Copy of current EAD card (front and back)
9. Two passport-style photographs
10. Prior OPT/CPT authorization evidence
11. Employer verification letter
12. E-Verify enrollment documentation

[If filing before OPT expiration: This application is being filed before the expiration of the applicant's current OPT EAD on [DATE]. Pursuant to 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(b)(6)(iv), the applicant's employment authorization is automatically extended for 180 days from the current OPT EAD expiration date while this application is pending.]

Should you require any additional information or documentation, please do not hesitate to contact the applicant at the address and telephone number listed on the I-765.

Respectfully submitted,

________________________________________
[APPLICANT NAME]
[ADDRESS]
[TELEPHONE]
[EMAIL]
SEVIS ID: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
[If represented by counsel:]

________________________________________
[ATTORNEY NAME]
[BAR NUMBER / STATE]
[FIRM NAME]
[ADDRESS]
[TELEPHONE]
[EMAIL]
Date: [__/__/____]

PART V — FORM I-983 TRAINING PLAN GUIDANCE

A. Purpose of the I-983

The Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is required for all STEM OPT extension applications. It documents the training objectives, learning goals, and the employer's commitment to providing meaningful training that advances the student's knowledge in the STEM field. The employer and student must jointly develop the training plan.

B. Key Sections of the I-983

Section 1 — Student Information

Section 3 — Employer Information

Section 5 — Training Plan Details

The training plan must address the following elements with specificity:

☐ Training Goals and Objectives: Describe the specific skills, competencies, and knowledge the student will develop during the STEM OPT extension period. Goals should be measurable and directly related to the STEM degree.

☐ Detailed Description of Training: Explain the methodology of training, including formal instruction, mentoring, project-based learning, and hands-on experience. Describe specific projects, technologies, or research the student will engage in.

☐ Relationship Between Training and STEM Degree: Explicitly connect the training activities to the student's specific STEM field of study. Explain how the training applies and builds upon the academic knowledge gained.

☐ Explanation of How Employer Will Provide Oversight: Describe the supervision structure, frequency of check-ins, performance evaluation methods, and mentorship arrangements. Identify the specific individual(s) responsible for training oversight.

☐ Measures and Assessments: Describe how the student's progress will be evaluated, including formal performance reviews, milestone assessments, skills demonstrations, and portfolio development.

C. I-983 Employer Attestations

By signing the I-983, the employer attests to the following:

☐ The employer has sufficient resources and trained personnel to provide the training
☐ The student will not replace a full- or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker
☐ The employer will provide compensation commensurate with similarly situated U.S. workers
☐ The training plan will help the student attain training objectives
☐ The employer will comply with all STEM OPT reporting and compliance requirements

D. Material Changes to the I-983

A new I-983 must be completed and submitted to the DSO within 10 days of any material change, including:

☐ Change of employer
☐ Significant change in job duties or responsibilities
☐ Change in worksite or work location
☐ Change in direct supervisor
☐ Change in hours (below 20 hours per week triggers termination of STEM OPT)
☐ Change in compensation that is no longer commensurate with U.S. workers

PART VI — FILING FEES AND INSTRUCTIONS

A. Fee Summary

B. Where to File

☐ Online filing (preferred): File through the USCIS online portal at https://myaccount.uscis.gov — USCIS encourages online filing for I-765 applications.

☐ Mail filing: Send to the USCIS Lockbox address specified in the I-765 filing instructions. Filing addresses vary based on the applicant's location.

Always verify the current filing address at https://www.uscis.gov/i-765 before filing.

C. Processing Times

D. Automatic 180-Day Employment Authorization Extension

If the I-765 application is filed before the current OPT EAD expires, per 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(b)(6)(iv):

• Employment authorization is automatically extended for 180 days from the current OPT EAD expiration date.
• The student may continue working with the same employer using the expired EAD card combined with the I-797C receipt notice as evidence of the extended employment authorization.
• If the application is not adjudicated within 180 days, the automatic extension expires and the student must stop working until the new EAD is received.

E. Cap-Gap Extension

If the student has a pending or approved H-1B cap-subject petition requesting a change of status, per 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(f)(5)(vi):

☐ F-1 status and OPT employment authorization are automatically extended through September 30 of the fiscal year for which the H-1B was filed.
☐ This applies even if the STEM OPT extension has not been filed or the current OPT EAD has expired.
☐ The cap-gap extension terminates if the H-1B petition is denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

PART VII — ONGOING REPORTING AND COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. Student Reporting Obligations

During the 24-month STEM OPT extension, the student must comply with the following reporting requirements:

Validation Reports to DSO (Every 6 Months)

The student must confirm the following information with the DSO at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months:

Self-Evaluation Reports

Address and Employment Changes

☐ Report any change of name, address, or employer to the DSO within 10 days
☐ Report loss of employment to DSO immediately
☐ Update SEVIS record through DSO for any material changes

B. Unemployment Limitations

☐ During the STEM OPT extension, the student may not be unemployed for an aggregate of more than 150 days (combined with any unemployment during the initial 12-month OPT period, subject to the 90-day initial OPT limit)
☐ Track all periods of unemployment carefully
☐ Unemployment includes periods between jobs, gaps in employment, and any time the student is not actively working at least 20 hours per week

C. Employer Compliance Requirements

The employer must:

☐ Remain enrolled in E-Verify throughout the STEM OPT extension period
☐ Provide compensation commensurate with similarly situated U.S. workers
☐ Report the departure of the STEM OPT student (termination, resignation, end of assignment) to the DSO
☐ Cooperate with DSO or SEVP requests for information regarding compliance
☐ Maintain records of the I-983 training plan and any modifications
☐ Ensure the student is working at least 20 hours per week

D. Annual Self-Evaluation Tracking

PART VIII — EMPLOYER VERIFICATION LETTER TEMPLATE

[DATE: [__/__/____]]

[EMPLOYER LETTERHEAD]

To Whom It May Concern:

RE: Employment Verification for STEM OPT Extension — [APPLICANT NAME]

This letter confirms that [APPLICANT NAME] (SEVIS ID: [NUMBER]) is currently employed by [EMPLOYER NAME] and provides the following information in support of [his/her/their] application for a 24-month STEM OPT extension under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(c)(3)(C).

Employment Details:

Position Description and STEM Degree Nexus:

[APPLICANT NAME] serves as a [JOB TITLE] in our [DEPARTMENT] team. [His/Her/Their] primary duties include:

[Provide detailed description of duties, emphasizing the direct relationship between the work and the applicant's STEM degree field. Explain how the role applies the technical knowledge, skills, and theories from the STEM degree program.]

E-Verify Enrollment:

[EMPLOYER NAME] is enrolled in E-Verify and in good standing. Our E-Verify Company ID Number is [NUMBER]. We confirm that [APPLICANT NAME]'s position is not replacing any full-time or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker, and that [his/her/their] compensation is commensurate with compensation provided to similarly situated U.S. workers.

Training Commitment:

We have executed the Form I-983 Training Plan and are committed to providing the training and mentorship described therein. We have sufficient resources and trained personnel to provide the described training.

Please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned with any questions.

Sincerely,

________________________________________
[SIGNATORY NAME]
[TITLE]
[EMPLOYER NAME]
[TELEPHONE]
[EMAIL]
Date: [__/__/____]

PART IX — PRACTITIONER TIPS AND COMMON PITFALLS

Best Practices

1. File early within the window. The student may file the I-765 up to 90 days before the current OPT EAD expires. Filing early provides maximum protection and triggers the 180-day automatic extension upon EAD expiration.

2. Confirm E-Verify enrollment independently. Do not rely solely on the employer's representation. Search the employer's name in the E-Verify database or request a screenshot of their E-Verify dashboard showing active enrollment and the Company ID number.

3. STEM degree must be on the CIP list. Verify the degree's CIP code against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List at https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/stem-opt-hub/additional-resources/eligible-cip-codes-for-the-stem-opt-extension. Not all science or technical degrees qualify.

4. I-983 detail matters. Generic or vague training plans are a leading cause of STEM OPT denials. The training goals should be specific, measurable, and clearly tied to the STEM degree field.

5. Track unemployment days meticulously. During the initial 12-month OPT, the limit is 90 aggregate days of unemployment. During the 24-month STEM extension, the limit increases to 150 aggregate days. Days carry over from the initial OPT period.

6. Address changes. Failure to report address changes within 10 days can result in termination of F-1 status and STEM OPT authorization.

7. Multiple employers. STEM OPT students may work for more than one employer simultaneously, but each employer must be E-Verify enrolled, and a separate I-983 must be completed for each employer.

8. Prior STEM degrees. A student may use a previously earned STEM degree (not the degree on which current OPT is based) for the STEM extension, provided the prior degree was earned from a SEVP-certified institution and has not previously been used for a STEM OPT extension.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

☐ Filing the I-765 after the current OPT EAD has expired (application will be rejected)
☐ DSO recommendation date on I-20 is more than 60 days before OPT expiration
☐ I-20 is not signed by the student
☐ I-983 is incomplete, unsigned, or contains inconsistencies with the I-765 or employer letter
☐ Employer is not enrolled in E-Verify or enrollment has lapsed
☐ Student working fewer than 20 hours per week
☐ STEM degree CIP code is not on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List
☐ Failure to include the correct filing fee (wrong amount or wrong payee)
☐ Passport photographs do not meet USCIS specifications
☐ Student exceeds the unemployment day limit (90 days during initial OPT or 150 total)
☐ Failure to submit validation reports to DSO every 6 months
☐ Not filing a new I-983 after a material change in employment
☐ Relying on the 180-day automatic extension without confirming timely filing
☐ Not updating address with USCIS (Form AR-11) and DSO after moving

PART X — STATUTORY AND REGULATORY REFERENCES

PART XI — POST-FILING CHECKLIST AND TIMELINE

A. After Filing

☐ Record the application receipt number from Form I-797C (Notice of Action)
☐ Verify receipt on USCIS Case Status Online
☐ Store copies of the entire filing packet and proof of mailing/delivery
☐ If the OPT EAD expires before the new EAD is issued, document the timely filing to benefit from the 180-day automatic extension
☐ Continue working with the same employer using the combination of expired EAD + I-797C receipt notice
☐ Report the new receipt number to the DSO for SEVIS update

B. While Pending

☐ Continue compliance with all reporting requirements
☐ Monitor USCIS case status regularly
☐ Respond promptly to any USCIS Request for Evidence (RFE)
☐ Do not exceed unemployment day limits
☐ Do not change employers without filing a new I-983 with the DSO
☐ Keep address updated with USCIS (Form AR-11) and DSO

C. Upon Approval

☐ Receive new EAD card with 24-month validity
☐ Verify all information on the EAD card is correct (name, category, validity dates)
☐ Continue compliance with I-983 training plan
☐ Complete 6-month validation reports on schedule
☐ Complete annual self-evaluation and submit to DSO
☐ Begin planning for next immigration step (H-1B, other work visa, or departure)

D. If Denied

☐ Review denial notice for specific reasons
☐ Consult with immigration attorney regarding options:
☐ Motion to Reopen or Reconsider
☐ Re-filing (if within the filing window and OPT has not expired)
☐ Alternative immigration strategies (H-1B, O-1, etc.)
☐ If no further authorization, prepare to depart within the applicable grace period (60 days from OPT end date or denial, whichever is later)

PART XII — DISCLAIMER AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY NOTICE

DISCLAIMER: This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex, fact-specific, and subject to frequent changes in statutes, regulations, and agency policy. The information contained herein is current as of February 27, 2026, but may not reflect subsequent changes. STEM OPT regulations have been the subject of ongoing litigation, and students should consult with qualified immigration counsel to confirm the program's continued availability. You must have this template reviewed and customized by a qualified immigration attorney before use. No attorney-client relationship is created by use of this template.

PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY NOTE: Attorneys and DSOs using this template must independently verify all statutory citations, regulatory references, fee amounts, filing addresses, designated STEM degree lists, and processing times before submission. The STEM OPT program is governed by detailed regulatory requirements, and failure to comply with reporting and documentation obligations can result in termination of the student's STEM OPT authorization and F-1 status.

Template prepared for use on the ezel.ai platform. Last updated: February 27, 2026.