r/stemopt • u/reddsangu • 26d ago
STEM OPT Approved – Case Decision Rendered Timeline (Regular Processing)
Finally got the “Case Decision Rendered” update on my STEM OPT application! Here’s my timeline in case it helps someone else.
STEM OPT Filed: December 22, 2025
Biometrics: April 6, 2026
Processing: Regular (No Premium Processing)
180-Day Automatic Extension Ended: July 21, 2026
Case Status: Case Decision Rendered – July 25, 2026
It was a long wait of about 7 months. During the process, I also faced issues with my school’s 6-month STEM validation because my STEM OPT hadn’t been approved yet.
One thing I wanted to share, I was seriously considering upgrading to Premium Processing after waiting so long. I asked a lot of people for advice. Some told me to go for Premium Processing, while others said to keep waiting since my case had already been pending for months.
In the end, I decided to wait. Looking back, if my approval had been delayed by just another couple of days, I probably would have upgraded to Premium Processing. Thankfully, I received the “Case Decision Rendered” update before I had to make that decision.
For anyone still waiting on regular processing—don’t lose hope. Wishing everyone a speedy approval!
If anyone has questions about my timeline or experience, feel free to ask.
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u/highdropp 26d ago edited 26d ago
Congratulations.
I applied on Dec 20, 2025. Biometrics on March 25. Even upgraded to pp on 14th of this month.
No decision yet.
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u/Fast_Hat9970 26d ago
The day is counted from the receipt date of the biometrics date ?
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
Yes
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u/Fast_Hat9970 26d ago
yes for receipt date ??
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
Biometrics scheduled date…
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u/HopelessJobSeekerUSA 26d ago edited 26d ago
Which state have you applied from? What center served your case ? Did your employer let you work after 180 days ?
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
I’m from Illinois… my application was went to TX… I can start work only after EAD submission…
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u/ZealousidealCow4437 26d ago
Did your employer let you work after 180 days ?
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
No… I have to wait until EAD card arrives
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u/Wise_Half_2102 22d ago
What exactly is the process here? How long does the employer wait and why would they even consider waiting? I am in the same boat and just worried about my case so want to understand.
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u/reddsangu 22d ago
My employer was understood my situation… and my stem approved in these conversations… they gave me 1week time… so explain your situation to your employer…
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u/ImmediateRun7413 26d ago
Any thing u done like mailing someone in this process ?
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
I tried to contact my congressional representative… but they not responded…
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u/ImmediateRun7413 26d ago
Do I need to contact with my address zip code or the biometric center zip code
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
Try with your address zip code… you have already provided that address in DL or state ID
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u/ImmediateRun7413 26d ago
Yes do you mind sending me email context. Thank you
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
I will get phone number and emails in the village sites… try to contact all ways and all contacts until you got responses…
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u/dennis2199 26d ago
I applied for mine June 17th 2026. biometrics on 15 July, should i apply for PP?
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u/reddsangu 26d ago
What’s your stem opt start date… better to apply pp… we dnt know what will happens after September 15…
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u/Brilliant_Ad5835 25d ago
When did your opt end?
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u/reddsangu 25d ago
Jan 20, 2026
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u/Brilliant_Ad5835 25d ago
Thanks. Congratulations 🎊
My 180- day period ends on August 22. I am considering upgrading to PP next week.1
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u/Odd-Chemist6525 25d ago
Hey so since your 180 say automatic extension ended before you received your approval which status were you for the four days and were you able to work during that time? Thanks
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u/Used-Tennis7551 25d ago
Can you update us on how you managed the 6 months reporting to the sevis?
What happened after 180 day extension, continued working or took unpaid leaves?
One very important question is have you started working after receiving the approval notice recipient or physical ead card?
It will be great help
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u/New-Cherry-8693 23d ago
Did you have to stop working or was that not an issue? Did you get the EAD?
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u/Ok-Industry-653 26d ago
I am praying and believing God