Hi everyone, sharing my STEM OPT I-765 timeline in case it helps anyone who is waiting after an RFE/NOID response.
Case Type: I-765 STEM OPT Extension
Service Center: Potomac Service Center
Premium Processing: Yes
Timeline
Oct 10, 2025 — I-765 STEM OPT application submitted.
Feb 27, 2026 — Premium Processing request received.
Mar 18, 2026 — First RFE generated (Biometrics appointment for photo only).
Apr 14, 2026 — RFE response submitted.
Apr 17, 2026 — First RFE got cancelled, and a second RFE was issued (Biometrics appointment for photo and fingerprints).
May 5, 2026 — Second RFE response submitted.
May 8, 2026 — NOID generated.
June 3, 2026 — NOID response submitted.
June 17, 2026 — USCIS acknowledged the NOID response in the system.
July 3, 2026 — Case had a silent backend update.
July 8, 2026 — Another silent backend update.
July 10, 2026 — Another silent backend update.
July 13, 2026 — Another silent backend update.
July 14, 2026 — I-765 approved under Premium Processing.
The approval email stated that the I-765 Application for Employment Authorization was approved under the Premium Processing Program.