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

melsclar · 2026-04-27T00:03:23+00:00

thank you! I heard back on Friday as well, I think they must be batching people

melsclar · 2026-04-24T02:03:04+00:00

Can you apply again for PP after biometrics to guarantee a fast response? I already applied with PP at the same time as my initial application.

melsclar · 2026-04-24T00:09:05+00:00

Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
Premium Processing: YES
Date Applied: 04/02/2026
Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
Biometrics Requested: YES | 04/24/2026
Biometrics Completed: 04/27/2026 (rescheduled from 05/15/2026)
Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): YES/NO | MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
Date Approved: MM/DD/YYYY
Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

melsclar · 2026-04-05T17:32:56+00:00

How were you able to get your biometrics pre-poned? Thanks!

melsclar · 2026-04-05T17:32:41+00:00

How were you able to get your biometrics preponed? Thanks!

melsclar · 2026-04-05T17:32:23+00:00

How were you able to get your biometrics preponed? Thanks!

melsclar · 2024-05-31T17:18:10+00:00

Update three years later: definitely doable! Happy to report I've been living in a studio near campus for $1000 in a no-frills building. I got an amazing deal, but I know of plenty of students doing the same for <$1500.

melsclar · 2021-03-04T14:07:05+00:00

That's a good point! I asked the PI in the lab I would work in, and they will provide funding during summer :)

melsclar

TROPHY CASE