What happens if Ive already mailed my OPT application to a Service Center but I am not able to complete my coursework requirements as planned?
If you do not complete your studies or graduate as planned, you must obtain documentation from your department/professor(s) explaining why you were unable to finish. The ISO needs a copy of this letter as evidence for your file. You must keep all original documentation with your Form I-20s. Unless there were factors beyond your control, USCIS looks unfavorably upon students who fail to complete their studies by the program completion date on the most recently issued I-20, especially if they have applied for OPT based on a projected completion date. You are not allowed to work full-time on OPT until all coursework has been completed, even if an EAD card has been received.
If you do not complete your studies or graduate as planned, you must obtain documentation from your department/professor(s) explaining why you were unable to finish. The IS needs a copy of this letter as evidence for your file. You must keep all original documentation with your Form I-20s. Unless there were factors beyond your control, USCIS looks unfavorably upon students who fail to complete their studies by the program completion date on the most recently issued I-20, especially if they have applied for OPT based on a projected completion date. You are not allowed to work full-time on OPT until all coursework has been completed, even if an EAD card has been received.
Related Questions
- I submitted my graduation application for the current or a future semester and will not be able to complete all the requirements during that semester. How do I renew or update my graduating semester?
- Am I just supposed to provide Internet access, or are there other requirements (like a community center, free service to X users, etc.)?
- What happens if an application is filed at the wrong Service Center?
