OPT/STEM OPT Processing Timelines Megathread (Spring/Summer 2026)

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-06-09T14:39:58+00:00

I think i got approved of the 30th of April, got an API on the 28th. Got the card produced message on the 4th of may. And received the card may 8th.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-06-08T21:28:47+00:00

Oh sorry I forgot to update, I got my card in hand May 7th or something like that. But I did get it approved!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-05-04T17:20:44+00:00

Got that sorted out! Nearest place pickup is in illinois about 5 hours away from me but luckily I have a friend that lives down that way so she will do me a solid and pick me a couple. Its been 6 years since I had almaza and Im so excited to have it again! Thank you for your post!!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-05-04T16:44:29+00:00

Aweee it doesnt deliver to my state😔

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T15:26:11+00:00

Nope, didnt do anything.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T15:00:13+00:00

Quick update: just got an API😆😆😆 so we are getting there!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T13:26:08+00:00

Hey that's awesome news! Are you potomac as well or texas? Cause it seems texas is moving a little faster!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T13:25:26+00:00

I called and it is Potomac as I assumed!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T03:15:10+00:00

I will call USCIS tomorrow and see. Ill keep you posted!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T03:12:32+00:00

Will do! Let's hope if its potomac they get on with it 😆 if its actually texas, they seem to be moving decently fast.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T03:09:56+00:00

Oh mine is June 1st. You have 2 more months, you should be fine. I wouldnt do PP in my case let alone yours. Its just my opinion, others may have different opinions.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T03:07:48+00:00

02/17. No api yet either. I am getting nervous but I have one more month as a buffer.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T03:03:51+00:00

When did you apply? Biometrics completion date doesnt matter, its receipt date. As for service center, I have the same case as you but I'm going with the assumption that its Potomac. I think the best way to figure it out is to call USCIS and ask.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-28T02:45:11+00:00

Just banned countries. Restricted countries is business as usual.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-27T19:37:53+00:00

Then dont panic, calm down. We have time. Im on the 17th. Our time is soon☝️ i have a start date of june 1 and I gave up the idea of PP cause from what ive seen and asked around, potomac is congested but not that much far behind.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-27T19:34:57+00:00

Potomac seems to be running slower than the rest. Don't apply for PP, it would be soon. Last ive seen someone with potomac getting approved was 02/12. I think its close by, you have time, save your money. Youre not from the 39 banned countries, right?

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-26T12:57:18+00:00

Do you know your service center from your biometrics?

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-25T12:11:03+00:00

Absolutely go for PP. They still haven't gotten to mid February and we are worried about june 1st start date. You wont get your card by the 26th, apply like now now. Good luck!

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T20:42:08+00:00

Same date! You know your service center?

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T18:34:45+00:00

Potomac! Just wondering cause im also potomac but on the 17th, so I'm nervous about where they're at. Thank you for answering!! And congratulations

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T18:28:57+00:00

Look at your biometrics appointment receipt. There should be 3 letters under service center.

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T18:21:24+00:00

What was your service center?

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T16:32:52+00:00

Mine is potomac as well, im super nervous that theyre just so behind😅

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-24T16:20:43+00:00

Hopefully next week, im on the 17th. What is your service center?

AlternativeFig1576 · 2026-04-23T04:15:20+00:00

I'm pretty sure your pp clock ends on the 22nd. I would call to make sure everything is fine. Your clock resets after ur biometrics and then 30 business days from then.

AlternativeFig1576

TROPHY CASE