You can submit your STEM Extension application to USCIS as early as 90 days before your current 12 months of OPT ends. USCIS must receive your application before your current OPT EAD expires.
Office of Global Engagement
International Students and Scholars
STEM OPT Application Instructions
Learn about the application procedure for the STEM Extension of Optional Practical Training.
Application Procedure
You will need to complete pages 1-4 of the Training Plan Form I-983 with your employer. This form must be signed by you and your supervisor.
Tips for completing your Form I-983 can be found here.
Log into your OISSS Gateway portal and submit the STEM OPT Extension Request not more than 90 days before your current EAD expires. Please note that this request is not visible in your record more than 100 days before the EAD expires.
A link to the Brown University STEM Extension Administrative Fee payment website will be available in the STEM OPT Extension Request Form in your OISSS Gateway portal. Once you have paid the fee, upload your email receipt to the STEM OPT Extension Request.
OISSS will issue a new I-20 with a STEM OPT recommendation on page 2. Please allow 5 business days for processing.
IMPORTANT: STEM OPT application must be received by USCIS within 60 days of the OISSS issuing the new I-20 (refer to the date next to the advisor's signature on page 1) and before the expiration date of your EAD.
Create or log into your USCIS Online Account. Look for the "File a Form Online" option and select “Application for Employment Authorization (I-765).” Tips for completing the I-765 online can be found here.
Track your application on USCIS Case Status website with the receipt number generated from online filing. Check for the receipt notice arriving by mail and also in the Documents tab in your USCIS online account.
The I-797 "Notice of Action" (receipt notice) will be mailed to the address you provide on Form I-765. This receipt notice indicates the date your application was received by USCIS.
Please contact OISSS if you do not receive your paper receipt notice within one month of submitting your application.
The evidence that you have been approved for the STEM Extension is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a laminated card with your photo and employment authorization begin and end dates. Please upload a copy of your EAD to your OISSS Gateway portal when you receive it.
You should receive the EAD within 3 months (normal processing time) of the receipt date listed on the receipt notice. If you have not received the EAD within the normal processing time, contact OISSS.
Can a Student Work While the STEM Application is Pending?
If a student files an application for the STEM extension and it is received by USCIS prior to the end date listed on the current EAD card, the student will be able to start or continue employment with the E-Verify employer while the application is pending, until a final decision is made or for up to 180 days past the end date on the current EAD.
Students in eligible STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields can apply for a two-year extension of OPT.
Mandatory OPT Reporting Requirements