The University of Massachusetts (UMass) STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) program is designed for international students who have completed a degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and are seeking to gain practical work experience in their field of study. To submit a complete application package, applicants must carefully follow the guidelines and requirements set by UMass and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to submit a complete application package for UMass STEM OPT applicants.
Understanding the STEM OPT Program
The STEM OPT program is a 24-month extension of the standard 12-month OPT period, allowing international students to gain additional work experience in their field of study. To be eligible for the STEM OPT program, applicants must have completed a degree in a STEM field, have a valid F-1 visa, and have not exceeded the maximum allowed unemployment days during their standard OPT period. Applicants must also have a job offer from an employer who is enrolled in the E-Verify program, which is a federal program that verifies the employment eligibility of new hires.
Required Documents for STEM OPT Application
To submit a complete application package, applicants must gather and submit the following documents:
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Form I-765 instructions and checklist
- Copy of current F-1 visa
- Copy of I-20 form with STEM OPT recommendation
- Copy of diploma or transcript showing completion of STEM degree
- Letter from employer verifying job offer and E-Verify enrollment
- Copy of passport photo page
- Payment for USCIS filing fee (currently $410)
E-Verify is a federal program that verifies the employment eligibility of new hires, and applicants must ensure that their employer is enrolled in this program before submitting their application. Applicants must also ensure that they have a valid F-1 visa and have not exceeded the maximum allowed unemployment days during their standard OPT period.
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Form I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization |
| Form I-20 | Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status |
| Copy of diploma or transcript | Proof of completion of STEM degree |
| Letter from employer | Verification of job offer and E-Verify enrollment |
Submission and Processing of STEM OPT Application
Once the application package is complete, applicants must submit it to USCIS for processing. The application must be filed within 90 days of the expiration of the standard OPT period, and applicants must ensure that they have a valid F-1 visa and have not exceeded the maximum allowed unemployment days. The USCIS will review the application and may request additional evidence or information to support the application.
Tracking the Status of STEM OPT Application
Applicants can track the status of their STEM OPT application online using the USCIS case status tool. Applicants must have their receipt number handy to check the status of their application. The USCIS will also send notifications to applicants via email or mail regarding the status of their application.
It is essential to note that USCIS processing times can vary depending on the workload and backlog of applications, and applicants should plan accordingly to avoid any delays or disruptions to their employment. Applicants can check the USCIS website for the latest processing times and plan their application submission accordingly.
What is the deadline for submitting a STEM OPT application?
+The application must be filed within 90 days of the expiration of the standard OPT period. Applicants must ensure that they have a valid F-1 visa and have not exceeded the maximum allowed unemployment days.
What documents are required for a STEM OPT application?
+Applicants must submit Form I-765, copy of current F-1 visa, copy of I-20 form with STEM OPT recommendation, copy of diploma or transcript showing completion of STEM degree, letter from employer verifying job offer and E-Verify enrollment, copy of passport photo page, and payment for USCIS filing fee.
How long does it take for USCIS to process a STEM OPT application?
+USCIS processing times can vary depending on the workload and backlog of applications. Applicants can check the USCIS website for the latest processing times and plan their application submission accordingly.
In conclusion, submitting a complete application package for UMass STEM OPT applicants requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the guidelines and requirements set by UMass and USCIS. Applicants must ensure that they have a valid F-1 visa, have not exceeded the maximum allowed unemployment days, and have a job offer from an employer who is enrolled in the E-Verify program. By following the steps outlined in this article and carefully reviewing the application instructions and checklist, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application and gain the practical work experience they need to succeed in their field of study.
