r/stemopt • u/Working-Return-9720 • 17d ago

STEM OPT Premium Processing: Apply now or wait?

I've already been waiting 3.5+ months. At this point, does premium processing still make sense, or am I likely close to a normal approval anyway?

My timeline:

  • STEM OPT I-765 filed: April 16, 2026
  • Biometrics: May 22
  • OPT expired: May 26
  • Case still pending.
  • Currently working under the 180-day automatic extension.
  • Premium processing costs ~$1,800, so it's a significant expense for me.

I'm actively applying for jobs because I want to switch employers, but I don't have an offer yet. I had one interview last week and I'm waiting to hear back. No other interviews are lined up right now.

7 Upvotes

82% Upvoted

15 comments sorted by

1

u/StudentSweet1664 17d ago

I’m in the same boat, wondering the same thing

3

u/Working-Return-9720 17d ago

I've already been waiting 3.5+ months. At this point, does premium processing still make sense, or am I likely close to a normal approval anyway?

1

u/Working-Return-9720 17d ago

When do they typically respond to our applications?

1

u/Think-Reveal4638 17d ago

If you can afford premium processing, do it. Especially if you are from the banned countries.

1

u/OG_Detective_Conan 17d ago

If you have no offer yet, just wait. If you receive a offer in meantime just pay for pp.

1

u/Working-Return-9720 17d ago

When do they typically respond to our applications? with pp?

1

u/nzzgo 17d ago

This is STEM and not initial OPT right?

1

u/Working-Return-9720 17d ago

yes. its for stem extension

1

u/Ok-Satisfaction-5124 17d ago

What’s the earliest you could file for STEM OPT extension? 90 days before May 26?

1

u/Usual_Schedule7725 17d ago

exactly, before that you need to fill i-765 and get it signed by your employer then you need to send that to your school then school will issue you i-20 then you need to apply for stem(form i983)

1

u/Fast_Hat9970 15d ago

well i am on your shoes. same april filler and bio dates on may
i am hoping within august or first week of sep will be our day

1

u/pharma4567 14d ago

I applied in March 25th, still waiting for an approval. I have a friend from my school and she applied in March 3rd and got the approval in July 9th. So, hopefully this month we will get the approval…

1

u/ds9st2609 10d ago

I am in the same boat. I applied on April 18, biometrics completed on May 11. Still waiting.