Apply with USCIS
What To Know Before Applying With USCIS:
You can start your online application here.
RFEs, NOIDs, NOIRs, or Denied Applications:
If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), Notice of Intent to Revoke (NOIR), or a denied application, notify ISS by submitting an OPT/STEM OPT Issue Form. (Navigate to the Control Center and click OPT/STEM Issue Form.) Once you submit the form, a DSO will review your notice and reach out to you via email.
All RFEs/NOIDs/NOIRs are unique, and any supporting letters and documents are drafted based on the specific request of the notice. Processing times for supporting documentation for RFEs/NOIDs/NOIRs vary based on:
The information contained in this website is not intended as, and does not serve as, legal advice. It is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Content is subject to change, and students are advised to consult an experienced U.S. immigration attorney for advice and further information. Neither Concordia University, St. Paul nor the Office of International Student Services is responsible for any errors or omissions contained in this website, or for the results obtained from the use of this information.
- Information about Fees: Form I-765 filing fee
- "When you file your form online, the system will guide you through the process of paying your fees with a credit, debit, or pre-paid card. Bank account withdrawals are also available when paying online. Once you are ready to submit your form, the system will automatically direct you to the secure Department of Treasury site, pay.gov, to pay your fees online"
- Form I-765 (Find form and follow all form instructions HERE)
- Check “Initial permission to accept employment" unless you already applied for STEM OPT in the past
- Include your employer’s name as listed in E-Verify and E-Verify Company Identification Number or valid E-Verify Client Company Identification Number
- The Alien Registration Number is the USCIS# listed on your EAD
- Enter (c)(3)(C) for STEM OPT extension
- Copy of signed I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation
- You must file with USCIS within 60 days from the day your STEM OPT I-20 is processed
- Official transcript (recommended) and copy of diploma as documentation of the STEM degree.
- Before you request an official transcript, please make sure your degree has been awarded. You can check that on Blackboard (Degree Audit).
- USCIS will want to see your graduation date, level and major between the two documents
- Copy of your current EAD (front and back)
- A passport photo (ie. Not the same as your current passport or visa.)
- Most recent I-94 form
- Click on "Get Most Recent I-94" to look up your form
- Paperclip form G-1145 on top of application materials (optional)
- Note: the I-983 Training Plan does not need to be submitted to USCIS (unless USCIS requests a copy during STEM OPT extension processing).
- Keep a copy for each I-983 for your own records.
- It is possible to apply for STEM OPT based on a previously earned degree (not at Concordia). In that case, you will need to enter that school's accreditation on the application with USCIS. If your are applying for STEM OPT based on your degree from Concordia, you do not need to enter accreditation information.
You can start your online application here.
RFEs, NOIDs, NOIRs, or Denied Applications:
If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), Notice of Intent to Revoke (NOIR), or a denied application, notify ISS by submitting an OPT/STEM OPT Issue Form. (Navigate to the Control Center and click OPT/STEM Issue Form.) Once you submit the form, a DSO will review your notice and reach out to you via email.
All RFEs/NOIDs/NOIRs are unique, and any supporting letters and documents are drafted based on the specific request of the notice. Processing times for supporting documentation for RFEs/NOIDs/NOIRs vary based on:
- The complexity of the notice and number of required supporting documents
- The number of offices that must provide supporting documentation
- The due date specified on the notice
The information contained in this website is not intended as, and does not serve as, legal advice. It is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Content is subject to change, and students are advised to consult an experienced U.S. immigration attorney for advice and further information. Neither Concordia University, St. Paul nor the Office of International Student Services is responsible for any errors or omissions contained in this website, or for the results obtained from the use of this information.