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This document provides guidelines and requirements for F-1 students applying for a 17-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the United States, including deadlines, eligibility

How to fill out opt 17-month extension instructions

How to fill out OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM

1. Obtain the Optional Practical Training (OPT) 17-Month Extension Instructions and Request Form from the USCIS website.
2. Read all instructions carefully to understand the eligibility criteria and requirements for the application.
3. Fill out the form completely, providing accurate information about your current visa status and employment.
4. Gather necessary supporting documents, including your Form I-20, passport, and any previous EAD cards.
5. Write a personal statement explaining the need for the extension and how it relates to your field of study.
6. Review your application and documents to ensure all information is correct and complete.
7. Submit the application and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address according to the instructions provided.
8. Keep a copy of your application for your records and track your submission.

Who needs OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

1. Students on F-1 visas who have completed their initial 12-month OPT and are seeking an extension based on a STEM degree.
2. Individuals whose fields of study are listed in the DHS approved STEM fields.
3. Students who meet the criteria set by USCIS for OPT extension and wish to continue gaining practical experience in their field.

People Also Ask about

How many times can you get an OPT extension?

A student may participate twice in the STEM OPT extension over the course of their academic career. Students may not apply for STEM OPT extensions during the 60-day grace period following an initial (usually 12-month) period of post-completion OPT.

What forms do I need to fill for STEM OPT extension?

Students and their employers are required to complete and sign Form I-983 before students can request their STEM OPT Extension I-20 from OIS. For guidance on how to correctly complete Form I-983, refer to the “Sample I-983 for USC Graduates” by clicking the button at the end of this section.

Can OPT extension be denied?

If the extension is denied and the student's post-completion OPT EAD is unexpired, the student will remain employment authorized until the expiration date of the EAD. However, if the application was denied because the student failed to maintain F-1 status, the student must immediately depart the United States.

Do I need a new I-20 for STEM OPT extension?

A new I-20 is not required to show STEM OPT approval. Keep your EAD Card in a safe place. ISS does not need a copy of your EAD. Read all the information on this page about the STEM OPT period.

How do I extend my OPT period?

Submit your I-765 application to USCIS You are automatically granted a 6-month extension as soon as you receive a receipt for your STEM OPT Extension application from UCSIS, meaning that you can continue working as soon as USCIS has received your STEM OPT extension application.

What happens if your OPT extension is denied?

If the extension is denied and the student's post-completion OPT EAD is unexpired, the student will remain employment authorized until the expiration date of the EAD. However, if the application was denied because the student failed to maintain F-1 status, the student must immediately depart the United States.

How strict is OPT?

The top 5 rules to remember while on OPT are: You may only work from the start date of your EAD card to the end date of your EAD card. All employment must be related to your major field of study. You must report all employment and address changes to BIO within 10 days of any change (see Reporting Requirements).

What is the acceptance rate for OPT extension?

QUESTION 4: On average 97% of I765 OPT STEM extensions were approved in fiscal years 2015-2019.

How do I extend my OPT expiration date?

To apply for an extension, you must properly file: Form I-765 with. The correct application fee; Your employer's name as listed in E-Verify, and. Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, endorsed by your DSO within the last 60 days; and. A copy of your STEM degree.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

The OPT: 17-Month Extension Instructions & Request Form is a document used by F-1 visa students who have completed their Optional Practical Training (OPT) to apply for an extension of their work authorization for 17 additional months in certain STEM fields.

Who is required to file OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

Students on F-1 visas who have completed their initial 12-month OPT and are in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields may file the OPT: 17-Month Extension Instructions & Request Form to apply for an extension.

How to fill out OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

To fill out the form, students must provide personal information, details about their educational program, STEM degree information, employer information, and submit supporting documents such as the I-20 form, proof of employment, and any required fees.

What is the purpose of OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

The purpose of the form is to allow eligible F-1 students to apply for an extension of their work authorization after the initial OPT period, enabling them to gain additional practical training in their field.

What information must be reported on OPT: 17-MONTH EXTENSION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUEST FORM?

The form requires reporting personal identification information, academic details, employment information including the employer's EIN, and compliance with all OPT requirements, along with a statement about the student’s adherence to the terms of the program.