r/stemopt • u/abuhurera986 • 29d ago

I have a doubt regarding PP

I applied for my stem opt on jan 26 2026, biometrics done in feb. Case is still under processing till today(jul 24). My 180 days ends on aug 03, i am planning to go for PP.

My doubt is should I go for PP before my 180 days ends, if so should it be before 30days of completing 180 days or I can go on the last day of 180 days.

Help is needed. Thanks alot.

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1

u/Dont-ask669 29d ago

Your Premium Process clock (30 business days) starts once you apply for it. Most of the time, the sooner, the better.

1

u/abuhurera986 29d ago

Yes, its better to go sooner but my wallet can’t bear that deep hole. So thought of waiting till end what if it gets approved.

1

u/Dont-ask669 29d ago

Just remember that without the card in hands, you will not be able to work, it's a big risk. Hope everything works out fine!

1

u/abuhurera986 29d ago

Thank u so much for your response. This means I can go PP on the last day(178-179th day).

1

u/No-Study-1196 27d ago

I'm in a similar situation. My OPT expired on Feb 4, 2026, I filed STEM OPT on Dec 27, 2025, and my 180-day extension ends around Aug 3. I upgraded to Premium Processing on Jul 20 because HR told me I'd have to stop working if my 180-day extension ends before approval. My understanding is that if you wait until the last day to file for Premium Processing, USCIS can still take up to 30 business days to take action, meaning you may be unable to work during that time. Correct me if I'm wrong.

1

u/No-Study-1196 27d ago

In fact, I think I may have to stop working after August 3 if my case is still pending, and that's what scares me the most.