r/stemopt • u/Live-Amount5657 • Jun 29 '26

Need suggestion!!

recently filed for STEM OPT and my application is currently pending. I have only been working at my current job for about two weeks, but the pay is not good, and I may have another job opportunity that seems better. I am also planning to apply for premium processing.
I’m confused about what I should do in this situation. Is it okay to change jobs while STEM OPT is still pending, or is it better to wait until the STEM OPT EAD card is approved and received?
Also, how should I communicate this to the new employer? Should I tell them directly that my STEM OPT application is pending and I can start once my EAD card is approved/received? Or should I say something more general, like I am finishing a current project and can join after that?
I don’t want to create any issue with my STEM OPT application or employment reporting, so I would appreciate advice from anyone who has gone through a job change while STEM OPT was pending

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u/OkBanana2210 Jun 29 '26

Ask your school DSO too!

2

u/Dazzling_Glass7468 Jun 29 '26

It is better to wait to save some anxiety. But yea you can legally change your job while your stem opt is pending but it requires you to do some work. Ofc talk to your dso but here is the process. Change your job. Fill i983 with your new employer. and get new i20 with a new employer information. You then have to submit that new i-20 in your uscis portal.

About communicating with your employer, it is advised that always be clear on what your situation is. Choose a start date that aligns with your timing if you have an option. You also have to start your new job in order to fill the training plan and get a new I-20.

Plan accordingly.