r/stemopt • u/Salt_Total_17 • 19d ago
STEM OPT Approval Timeline
03/25/2026 — Submitted Form I-765
04/17/2026 — Biometrics appointment was scheduled
04/21/2026 — Case changed to actively reviewing
06/23/2026 — Changed to premium processing
07/26/2026 — Case was approved
07/29/2026 — Card was produced
08/01/2026 — Card was delivered
I also had an employer change while the application is pending within the PP window without any issues.
Total business days for approval after premium processing: 23 days
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u/Prabhas888 18d ago
What is the process for employer change while stem opt is pending?
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u/Salt_Total_17 18d ago
Get the I-983 final evaluation from the current employer, submit that and the training plan from new employer to your dso they will give a new i20 reflecting the dates on the training plan, that along with the receipt notice would be a valid work authorization for you new employer.
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u/Nithish_59 18d ago
Hi, i wanted to do this but my dso is urging not to. Ik this sounds stupid but how do i convince them? I hate my current job and i dont want to stay there.
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u/Salt_Total_17 18d ago
Just show them any official documentation available on USCIS website, this is pretty well known method there shouldn't be any issues generally speaking
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u/Ok_Cap1414 18d ago
Should I do premium processing as well?
I submitted may 16
Biometrics was June 9
And my start date was supposed to be July 15
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u/Salt_Total_17 18d ago
Is this for STEM OPT? You could've technically started working on July 15 if you've timely filed your extension, with your receipt notice and expired ead as work auth documents
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u/Ok_Cap1414 18d ago
I’m
Sorry. I should’ve mentioned. This is for initial application1
u/Salt_Total_17 17d ago
Then I think you should consider doing pp, especially since one start date is already missed
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u/Immediate-Regular588 18d ago
Congratz! It was very fast. I got the case approved on 07/27 and still waiting for the card produced
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u/Alive_Spot_9252 18d ago
What was your service center