Review the STEM OPT Tutorial for instructions on how to complete the STEM OPT application.
Below is a list and explanation of the documents you will need for your STEM OPT application. A full overview of the new application requirements can be found on The Study in the States hub, the SEVIS student instructions website.
The first document to obtain, however, is your new I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation. Please start the process by competing the 24 Month STEM Extension application then submit the application and supporting documents to the OISPS. A brief explanation of the relevance of your work to your degree/coursework is also required. Please also send the I-983 Training Plan.
OPT STEM Extension Request Form
The 24 Month STEM Extension Request Form collects information we will need to recommend you for the STEM extension. Things to keep in mind:
- Students must also submit a completed Form I-983 Training Plan before the DSO can recommend the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS.
- Contact your employer to obtain the company's EIN (tax ID number)
Form I-983 Training Plan
The purpose of the Form I-983, a new requirement for 24-month extension, is to ensure that students continue a rigorous training program that builds on the skills obtained as a full time student. The student and their supervisor must agree on the components of the plan as follows:
- the role of the student in the work place,
- the goals and objectives of the proposed training,
- how the employer will provide oversight of the plan, and
- what set of measures and assessments will be used.
Both student and supervisor must sign this form and send it to the OISPS adviser for review.
- Students will need to provide this form with appropriate signatures to their OISPS adviser before receiving their new I-20.
- The SEVIS school code for Lamar University is: HOU214F00143000
Form I-765
The purpose of the Form I-765 is to request renewal of your permission to accept employment. Here are some tips for completing the PDF form:
- Type this form, except for the signature box
- Part 1, Question 1: Check the third box ("Renewal of my permission to accept employment")
- Part 2, Question 5: Make certain that the address you put in item #3 will be valid for the next 90 to 120 days as this is where your receipt and EAD will be sent. Mail from USCIS will not be forwarded by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any doubt where your mail will be delivered after graduation, we strongly advise that you use the OISPS address: P.O. Box 10263, Beaumont, TX 77710.
- Part 2, Question 21.a: Number from your online I-94 record.
- Part 2, Question 27: Eligibility code: (c)(3)(C)
- Part 2, Question 28: Degree awarded and field of study. Employers EIN or E-Verify number, as form requests
- Signature: Sign in black ink and make sure your signature does not touch any text or line
Above advisement valid for form edition dated 08/25/20
For detailed USCIS guidance on filling and completing the I-765, please see USCIS' Instructions document.
Photographs
Two recent photographs on thin, glossy paper per instructions from USCIS. Write your name and SEVIS number in pencil on the back of the photos. Do not cut to size or staple.
Check or Money Order
$410 payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. We highly recommend a cashier’s check or money order. Always check and ensure you are paying the correct filing fee amount by verifying the information on the USCIS I-765 webpage.
Photocopies of...
- All previous I-20s (you will receive one additional I-20 to add to your application after OISPS review).
- F-1 visa page and passport ID pages (including your photo, passport number and expiration date)
- All previous employment authorization documents (EAD cards), including your current EAD card.
- Printed online I-94 record
Proof of STEM DegreeProof of your STEM degree can include a copy of your Lamar University’s diploma accompanied by an official transcript. Please contact our Records Department for instructions on how to
obtain your official transcript.