X
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Community Updates
For updated information related to NJIT’s response to the Coronavirus health crisis, please see complete announcement of new measures.
For updated information related to NJIT’s response to the Coronavirus health crisis, please see complete announcement of new measures.
*CRITICAL APPLICATION INFORMATION* |
USCIS sometimes changes requirements for OPT applications, such as updating the Form I-765 to use, changing the mailing address for applications, etc. It is your responsibility to follow all the government’s requirements to avoid a rejection or denial of your OPT application. Always use the links to USCIS that are posted on the OGI website and be sure to follow all instructions carefully. |
How to submit your application for STEM extension Form I-20 to the OGI: |
OR
When your I-20 is ready, you'll receive it via email from OGI. |
F-1 students who have graduated from NJIT with a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field that has been designated by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as eligible for the 24-month extension, and are currently on an approved period of 12-month post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), may apply for a 24-month extension to continue their employment.
This extension may be available twice to eligible students, at different degree levels.
In order to be eligible for the 24 month STEM OPT Extension, students must:
All applications for STEM Extension OPT must be received by USCIS within the following timeframe:
If you have appropriately filed your application during this timeframe, your employment authorization is automatically extended for 180 days while your application is pending. USCIS may take 3-5 months to process applications.
**The OGI cannot issue your STEM extension OPT Requested Form I-20 any earlier than 90 days prior to the end of your current OPT authorization. Please do not submit your application for STEM OPT to the OGI earlier than this deadline.**
** Make sure your SEVP portal is up to date, and employment information is correct prior to submitting documents to the OGI. You may not be able to make changes to your SEVP Portal OPT information once the OGI processed your application**
How to submit applications to the OGI:
**Processing time is up to 7 days.** Students are responsible for submitting applications to the OGI in a timely manner to allow processing of their applications and comply with all federal deadlines for submission.
To obtain your new I-20 from OGI:
Once the OGI has reviewed and processed your documents, you will receive your STEM extension requested I-20 via email. Print and sign it for your application, and also keep a digital copy for your records. Refer to the announcement in Canvas posted on March 29, 2021 regarding emailed I-20s.
Students should review their STEM extension requested Form I-20 carefully to ensure that all information is correct prior to submitting their application to USCIS. Contact OGI immediately if there are any errors, so they may be corrected as quickly as possible.
USCIS must receive your STEM extension application within 60 days of your STEM extension I-20 being issued. USCIS must receive your STEM application before the expiration of your OPT or cap-gap extension or they will automatically deny your petition.
Refer to the OGI guidelines in Canvas if you are considering applying online rather than mailing your application to USCIS. Find more information about applying online on the USCIS website.
If you are applying online, refer to the list below plus the online instructions from USCIS for what documents to upload. If you are mailing your application to USCIS, assemble the supporting documents in the following order:
NOTE: there is a question on the online application that asks for proof of institutional accreditation if you are applying for the STEM extension based on a prior degree. A prior degree means a degree earned earlier than your most recent degree.
The average processing time is approximately 3 to 4 months. USCIS must receive your STEM application before the expiration of your OPT, or they will automatically deny your petition.
Where to send your application:
If sending by mail: look on the USCIS website for the direct filing addresses for Form I-765. Send your documents to USCIS with tracking information and/or delivery confirmation requested, and make a copy of your entire application prior to mailing to USCIS.
If applying online: refer to the USCIS website.
Students may find additional information regarding employment issues below: