An Indian F-1 student on OPT is facing a severe crisis due to delays caused by their employer. The situation has put their STEM OPT extension at risk and left them under extreme financial pressure.
OPT Timeline Turns Critical
The student is a master’s graduate from Virginia Tech. They completed their degree in December last year and have been working under OPT since then. Their current OPT is valid until December 29, 2025.
Employer Delay Creates Trouble
To apply for a STEM OPT extension, the I-20 request needed immediate action. However, due to delays from the employer, the request was submitted only on December 16. This delay proved costly for the student.
University Deadline Missed
Virginia Tech follows an internal STEM OPT deadline of December 12. Since the request came after this date, the university’s international office confirmed that the case cannot be expedited or processed further.
Financial Stress Adds Pressure
The student carries a large education loan from India that requires regular repayment. Returning to India would make repayment extremely difficult due to lower earning potential. This has added to the emotional and financial stress.
A Risky Legal Option Emerges
Experts have suggested a possible but risky workaround. The student can file the STEM OPT extension without the updated I-20. This approach may trigger a Request For Evidence later.
Temporary Relief With Legal Risk
If filed, the application could still provide an automatic 180-day work authorisation extension. Immigration experts have warned that this option should only be taken after consulting a lawyer.
A Last Chance to Stay Afloat
Despite the risks, this step may be the student’s only chance to remain in the US. It could also allow them to continue working and repay their education loan.
