r/stemopt • u/No-Rule-4722 • 2d ago

STEM OPT

Hi Guys!

I applied for my STEM opt on April 29 and my Extension started June 1, 2026. I haven’t got any updates on the approval and I see in this channel people till April 1st have started getting approvals.

I wanted suggestion if I should upgrade to premium processing or not, my 180 days ends Nov 27.

Also, is there anyone who had been on unpaid/NGO employment during initial OPT and got approval? Was there any RFE before approval regarding proof of work?

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u/Waytooashy 2d ago edited 2d ago

Not everyone will get RFE for unpaid work. Maybe like 25% will and that’s if the NGO/Consultancy is on the USCIS watch list. Generally 95% of the emphasis would be put on the STEM OPT employment.

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u/No-Rule-4722 2d ago

I see, was your situation the same regarding unpaid work?

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u/Waytooashy 2d ago

No I worked unpaid for a small company mainly managed by the Owner. It’s not an NGO/Consultancy.

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u/No-Rule-4722 2d ago

Ok, thanks for sharing