We have received reports that the online I-765 application may be incorrectly calculating the filing fee. If you’re an F-1 student applying for OPT or STEM OPT, this issue could affect your application process.
About the Filing Fee Error
Students have reported that the online I-765 application is not charging the correct filing fee. According to the USCIS Fee Schedule, filing an I-765 online with USCIS should cost $470. However, some students have reported being charged an additional $550 for a total of $1,020. From our understanding, this is incorrect. Paper applications, by contrast, cost a regular price of $520.
Should You File Online or by Paper?
Until this issue is resolved, students must decide whether to:
- File online and pay the potentially incorrect fee, or
- File by paper with the correct fee amount.
Make your choice carefully and keep your filing deadlines in mind.
OPT Applicants – Deadlines to Remember
OPT and STEM OPT applicants must adhere to strict filing deadlines. Missing these deadlines may make you ineligible for OPT.
Post-completion OPT Applicants
Your OPT I-20 is valid for 30 days from the date it was issued by ISS. You must file your I-765 before the end of your 60-day grace period following program completion.
STEM OPT Extension Applicants
Your STEM OPT I-20 is valid for 60 days from the date it was issued by ISS. You must file your I-765 before your current Post-completion OPT authorization ends.
Next Steps
- Decide how to file. Paper filing ensures the correct fee but may take longer. Online filing is faster but may currently involve the wrong fee calculation.
- Monitor your deadlines. The I-20 validity and filing windows remain strict and do not allow extensions.
- Stay informed. Watch for updates or corrections to the online filing system
If you have any questions about this error, feel free to contact ISS via email or meet with an advisor for support.