STEM stands for Science Technology Engineering Mathematics. Students should check the ICE Website's STEM List to see if their major is considered as STEM and therefore are eligible for a 24 month OPT STEM Extension.

Students wishing to apply for the OPT STEM Extension must complete the following information and submit it to the OPT STEM PORTAL

1. Submit a scanned copy of the I-983 form. This must be completed by you and your supervisor. You should keep the original.
2. Your name, current address and phone number
3. Your employer's name, address, and E-verify number 
4. Your Supervisor's name, email address and phone number
5. Your job title
6. How your position relates to what you studied at GVSU
7. Dates of current OPT Authorization
8. First date of employment at current employer

Once GVSU receives this information, we will review and process your new I-20.  We will send the I-20 to you. Then, you will need to complete the information for your STEM application for USCIS. Please note, it takes between 2 days and 2 weeks to process a new I-20. 

STEM Application Checklist

• Completed I-765 form: On # 27 write ( C ) ( 3 ) ( C )
• Completed G-1145 form
• Check or money order for $410.00 (pay to the order of: USCIS)
• Passport photos – 2 please!
• Copies of the following documents:  (Keep your originals)

1.             New I-20
2.             Passport identification page
3.             F-1 visa
4.             I-94 (you probably need to print a copy of your electronic I-94)
5.             Transcript
6.             Diploma
7.             Current EAD Card

Make copies of all the items above including your method of payment and mail your application packet with tracking to this address:

USCIS Chicago Lockbox

U.S. Postal Service (USPS):

USCIS
PO Box 805373
Chicago, IL 60680

FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries:

USCIS
Attn: I-765 C03
131 South Dearborn - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517

Every 6 months, you are required to update GVSU and SEVIS on your OPT STEM employment.  Please be sure to update your SEVIS Portal as well as updating the GVSU OPT STEM Portal found here.   If you have questions, please email Libby Jawish, [email protected]