An F-1 student discovered nearly a year later that their STEM OPT extension had been denied. The USCIS portal had continued to display their case status as “pending” or “being actively reviewed” throughout this entire period.
Hidden Denial Shocks Student
The denial actually took place in October 2024, but the student only found out after returning to their home country. Until then, the online portal gave no update, leaving them unaware that their legal stay in the US had expired.
No Notice or Official Update
The student says they received no official denial notice or email from USCIS at the time. This failure in communication means they were unknowingly staying in the US unlawfully after their original OPT expired, a violation that carries serious immigration consequences.
Risk of Ban on Reentry
Because of this unlawful presence, the student’s ability to legally return to the US is now at risk. They have filed multiple service requests and complaints with USCIS, but there has been no response or resolution so far.
Lost Mail or System Glitch?
The denial notice was never delivered. The student believes it may have been lost by the postal service or misplaced by their roommates, but the primary fault lies in the USCIS system’s failure to reflect the denial in real time.
Communication Gaps Endanger Students
The case highlights deep flaws in USCIS communication and tracking systems. Such delays and errors leave international students in legal danger, showing an urgent need for faster, transparent, and accountable immigration updates.
