Last-Minute OPT RFE Threatens F-1 Student’s Status

A recently graduated F-1 student on STEM OPT now faces a major crisis. They have been working under their 180 day work authorisation and have now received an RFE for their pending STEM OPT extension. Their authorisation ends in January 2026, which leaves them with little time.

RFE demanding extensive documents

The RFE asks for proof of a Bona Fide Employer Employee Relationship. It wants W-2s, pay stubs, organisational charts and the full I-983 training plan. The student had already paid for premium processing in November after waiting four months for progress.

Risk of losing work authorisation

Even with premium processing, this RFE can slow the case. The student must stop working in January if approval does not arrive in time. They will stay on F-1 status during the RFE period until February 2026, but they cannot work once their 180 days end.

Urgent steps to protect status

Experts say the student must respond to the RFE immediately. This gives USCIS enough time to act on the premium processing request. If the application is denied, the student must leave the US at once or attempt a complicated change of status.

Tightening scrutiny for students

This situation exposes how fragile the position of foreign students is. The depth of the RFE shows that USCIS is now examining work arrangements with far more detail. Even students face intense pressure during the immigration process.

Lives disrupted by small delays

Foreign students in the US are under more strain than ever. A small delay or a single oversight in paperwork can threaten their stay, disrupt their plans and derail their entire future abroad.