Application procedures for OPT-STEM extension

STEP ONE: Prepare the following documents before meeting with your immigration advisor: 

1. Form I-983 Training Plan  (PDF)
2. Form G-1145 (PDF) 
3. Form I-765 - *Please note some new changes with the new I-765 form. You need to complete the page 7 and list all of your previous CPTs, OPTs, Economic Hardships and SEVIS numbers (if prior SEVIS numbers). Refer to the Form I-765 FAQ: STEM Extension Guide (PDF).
4. Filing Fee payable to US Department of Homeland Security
5. 2 new passport style photographs, in color, with I-94 and full name written on back 
6. Copy of valid passport page 
7. Copy of visa 
8. Copy of I-94 record (https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home)
9. Copy of current, un-expired EAD card (front & back)
10. Copy of your MNSU diploma
11. Copy of transcripts issued by Minnesota State University, Mankato indicating the date of graduation and level of the degree conferred

 
STEP TWO: Set up a meeting with an immigration advisor in the Kearney Center to review your documents. Your immigration advisor will prepare the following documents for you: 

1. SEVIS event history print out 
2. I-20 with OPT STEM Extension recommendation 

• You will sign and date it. 
• You will send a copy of the I-20 and keep the original.

 
STEP THREE: After going through the entire OPT packet with your immigration advisor, package the following documents into a legal-sized envelope: 

• Step 1 documents 2-10 
• Step 2 documents 1-2 

STEP FOUR: Send the package to USCIS. REMEMBER:

• You are responsible for sending all items of your OPT application to the USCIS.
• Find the appropriate Lockbox to send your OPT application on the USCIS website. 
• You MUST send the package within 30 days of the processing date on your I-20 with OPT recommendation.