USCIS Applications

Tips for a Successful Application

• Do not file before receiving your I-20 from the ISSO – OPT, STEM OPT, change of status, and reinstatement applications require a new I-20 from the ISSO. If you file your application to USCIS without the proper I-20, it could result in an request for evidence (RFE), longer processing times, and/or a denied application which would forfeit your filing fee.
• File by your deadline – every application has specific guidelines for when you may submit it. Be sure to check the filing deadlines for the type of application you are submitting.
• Check the USCIS website – the best source of up-to-date, accurate information is the USCIS website. Check the edition date of your form and the filing locations.
• Check USCIS instructions – as you are filling out your I-765 or I-539, we recommend you refer to the official USCIS instructions. Every USCIS form comes with detailed instructions.
• Verify your information – it is your responsibility to ensure your documents are complete and correct before you send them.
• Make a copy for yourself – whenever you send an application to a government agency, it is a good idea to make a copy (digital or physical) so that you have a record of what you sent.
• Get a tracking number – if mailing your application, you can send your application through U.S. Postal Service or through a courier service like FedEx, UPS, or DHL. Whichever option you choose, the ISSO recommends getting a tracking number for your package.

File Online

OPT, STEM OPT, Change of Status, and Reinstatement applications can be filed online with USCIS. The ISSO recommends using the online filing option when possible, as it has many benefits:

• Receive your receipt notice faster
• Monitor your application progress online
• Communicate directly with USCIS about your case
• Upload additional documents
• Pay your fee securely online
• Avoid common mistakes, like forgetting to sign your form

File by Mail

Please do not try to deliver applications personally. USCIS does not accept hand-delivered applications.

Your filing location depends on what type of application you are submitting and whether you are sending your application through regular U.S. Postal Service delivery or through a courier service. If your package requires a signature upon delivery, choose the Express Mail address.

The most common USCIS forms submitted by UT Dallas students are the I-765 Application for Employment and the I-539 Application to Extend/Change Non-immigrant Status. Refer to the USCIS website for filing locations.

What Comes Next?

After USCIS receives your application, they will issue a receipt notice which you can use to track your application.

Special Situations

Rejection Notice

If USCIS cannot process your application due to a missing payment method or other issue, they will send you a Rejection Notice. In this case, your entire application will be sent back. If you are still within your deadline to file, you can submit a new, corrected application. Keep in mind that you may need to request an updated I-20 with a more recent date of issuance.

Request for Evidence

If USCIS needs more information from you, they will send you a Request for Evidence (RFE). Carefully follow all instructions and deadlines on the RFE letter. If you need any assistance with an RFE, please contact the ISSO. We will need to see a copy of the RFE in order to assist you.

Denial Notice

If your application is denied and you are still within your filing deadlines, you can submit a new, correct application. If your application is denied and your filing deadline has passed, you may contact an immigration attorney for guidance.

Withdrawing Your Application

There are times when a student may wish to withdraw a pending application. We recommend to talk with an ISSO advisor about how withdrawing your application may impact your immigration status.

If you have talked with an ISSO advisor and decide to withdraw your application, you will need to prepare a letter of intent to withdraw. This is a letter written by you, requesting to withdraw your application. The letter should include:

• Your full name
• The receipt number of the application you are withdrawing
• Explanation of your intent to withdraw your application
• Your physical, “wet ink” signature

Once you have prepared your letter, you will need to submit it to USCIS directly. If you have filed your application online, you may upload the letter to your myUSCIS account through the ‘Unsolicited Evidence’ section. If you have filed your application through mail, then mail the letter to the address listed on your receipt notice.