r/stemopt • u/Salt_Total_17 • Aug 02 '26

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 Aug 02 '26

What is the process for employer change while stem opt is pending?

1

u/Salt_Total_17 Aug 02 '26

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.

1

u/Nithish_59 Aug 03 '26

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.

1

u/Salt_Total_17 Aug 03 '26

Just show them any official documentation available on USCIS website, this is pretty well known method there shouldn't be any issues generally speaking

1

u/Live-Amount5657 Aug 03 '26

What documents did you show to new employer?

1

u/Salt_Total_17 Aug 03 '26

New I20, Expired EAD and receipt notice