F-1 students waiting for their Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are growing increasingly frustrated with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The official portal’s “processing time” keeps changing — sometimes nine months, sometimes 11 — without any explanation or pattern.
Sudden Delays Confuse Students
One student who applied for their STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permit in June expected it by December. But by October, the timeline suddenly stretched to 11 months, then briefly dropped to nine, only to rise again. The constant shifts have left students anxious and helpless.
Processing Times Lack Accuracy
Students say the posted timelines are unreliable. Some received their cards in four or five months even while their status showed “in process.” Others, who applied at the same time, are still waiting with no update. The inconsistency makes planning almost impossible.
Uncertainty Affects Career and Travel Plans
When the official portal feels like a guessing game, students can’t plan jobs, travel, or housing with confidence. Every change in processing time adds to the stress, making life decisions harder for those relying on OPT approval to begin work.
Premium Processing Isn’t a Fix
Many thought premium processing would help, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. Students already spent heavily during their initial OPT application and hesitate to pay again. Even with premium service, USCIS can pause the clock for additional notices, delaying results further.
Waiting Without Answers
With no consistent updates, students end up refreshing their USCIS accounts daily, checking emails, and hoping for a change. The process feels unpredictable and random, leaving many wondering why a government service seems more like a lottery system.
