Assembling Your Materials
Assemble the following, and upload to your online application, or for a paper application, attach on left-hand side in this order. See I-765 Instructions for more details.
- Recent passport size (2” x 2”) color photo(s). Online applicants only need one photo to upload. Applicants mailing documents will need two photos, and should write their name & I-94 number LIGHTLY in pencil on back of each.
- $410 Payment:
- Online applicants may pay by credit card. The last step after payment information is submission, so be careful not to submit before you're ready!
- Mailed applications should include a check or money order made out to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (from a U.S. bank account).
- Alternatively, if you prefer to mail and pay by credit card, please fill out Form G-1450 in lieu of a check or money order. Please double-check all numbers and don’t forget to sign your form; we've seen quite a few rejected applications as a result of mistakes on this form
- (For paper application only) Form G-1145. For email and/or text message notifications about updates to your application.
- Complete, signed Form I-765.
- Online applicants fill this out by clicking the "File Online" button in the linked page and creating an account with USCIS online. In the "review" section of the application there is a small link titled "view draft snapshot" that shows a preview PDF of what your I-765 would look like in paper copy.
- Online applicants will upload all supporting documents via the appropriate pages on the USCIS application website.
- Copies of all your past I-20s that show work authorization (prior CPT or OPT).
- Copy of signed new STEM OPT I-20 from ISSO, signed by you (either electronically or in blue pen).
- Copies of any documentation about previous status, if applicable. If you applied for a Change of Status to F-1 within the United States, include notification forms (this is uncommon). Please note: if you visited the US as a tourist and left before coming in as a student, you DO NOT need to include documentation about these types of travel.
- Copy of letter of employment (optional)
- Your Smith College transcript, showing your major as a STEM-extension eligible field.
- Copy of current or previous EAD (OPT card), front and back. Include any other EADs from other institutions or education levels, if applicable.
- Copy of your current passport's photo page.
- Copy of most recent F-1 entry visa (F-1 visa may be expired)(optional).
- Your most recent I-94 arrival record.
Make copies of all documents you submit for travel purposes.
Shipping Information
If you are applying online, everything can be submitted in your online application portal. However, if you are using a paper application, you will need to mail your physical packet to USCIS. The most updated mailing address can be found on the
USCIS website, under Foreign Students, and you are looking at category (c)(3)(C) for STEM OPT. If you have questions, please contact Dean Caitlin or Claire.