An international student in the U.S. faces deportation after a costly school error. Their STEM OPT Extension was denied because their Designated School Official (DSO) failed to update a key record in the SEVIS system, resulting in serious visa consequences.
DSO’s Mistake Causes Visa Termination
The student’s DSO reportedly did not update the STEM recommendation in SEVIS, which directly led to the denial. The failure has now left the student in a 60-day grace period, forcing them to stop working as their SEVIS record lists their F-1 visa as “completed.”
Motion to Reopen Recommended
With the visa now technically terminated, experts are urging immediate action. They advise filing a Motion to Reopen (Form I-290B) within 30 days of the denial, arguing that the error originated from the school. Acting fast is critical to prevent deportation.
Corrective Documents Needed
The DSO must issue a corrected I-20 form along with an official letter admitting the mistake. These documents can significantly strengthen the Motion to Reopen and help the student restore their legal status and work authorization.
Impact on International Students
This case highlights how fragile the F-1 status can be. A single bureaucratic mistake can disrupt careers, studies, and future immigration plans. Without a faster process to fix such errors, many international students remain vulnerable to life-changing consequences.
