Troubleshooting: RFEs, Denials, etc.

Please review our summary of steps Links to an external site. you can take immediately after mailing your OPT application to USCIS. These actions are designed to minimize potential complications. Based on USCIS data, the OPT approval rate is 97% over the past five fiscal years. Despite your best efforts, however, it is possible you may face various scenarios other than a straightforward and fast approval. Possible difficulties Links to an external site. could include, but are not limited to:

• Application rejected for filing fee problem (your payment didn't go through)
• Receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS
• Receiving a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) from USCIS
• Waiting more than 5 months after filing your OPT application for adjudication (decision of approval or denial) by USCIS
• Application denial
• Application approval, but the EAD is deemed undeliverable to your U.S. Mailing Address and is returned to USCIS
• Application approval and your EAD card arrives, but it contains factual errors such as a misspelled name or incorrect approval dates

If you face any of these scenarios, or face other complications during the OPT application process, immediately consult Links to an external site. an advisor at the International Center.