F-1 STEM OPT USCIS Application

When preparing the STEM OPT application, print the Application Checklist as a reference for assembling the required materials. 

STEM OPT Application Checklist

Please Note: USCIS new fee and form changes are on hold. Students should use the I-765 Form 8/25 edition and $410 fee until further notice.

Find I-765 form here

Interested in Filing Online?

As of April 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers F-1 students seeking pre- or post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or the STEM OPT extension the option to file Form I-765 electronically via the USCIS online portal. Follow the link below to learn more about the online I-765 filing process. Please note: Online filing is optional; you may still file via the paper process described on this page. 

Filing Form I-765 Online for STEM OPT

STEM OPT I-765 Visual Guide

ISSS has prepared a visual guide to help you navigate Form I-765 as an applicant for the STEM OPT Extension. Please note that this is meant as a general overview of the form and should not be taken as legal guidance.

Open the guide in a new window (PDF)