Can I Apply to Multiple Universities While on STEM OPT?

Military Law Discussions
1

Hey everyone! I’m on an F1 visa and currently working on my STEM OPT. Wondering if I can apply to multiple universities and get I-20s from them? I plan to stop working before I request my current university to transfer my SEVIS record. Anyone done this or know how it works?

2

Yeah, I think you can apply to multiple universities! Lots of people do that to keep options open.

3

Leith said:
Yeah, I think you can apply to multiple universities! Lots of people do that to keep options open.

Good to know! Do I need to wait until close to the end of my OPT, or can I start whenever?

4

Leith said:
Yeah, I think you can apply to multiple universities! Lots of people do that to keep options open.

Nah, you can start whenever you want. It’s up to you, but make sure your SEVIS transfer timing is right.

5

Just curious, what’s SEVIS? Sorry, I’m kinda new to all this!

6

Remington said:
Just curious, what’s SEVIS? Sorry, I’m kinda new to all this!

No worries! SEVIS is a system that tracks F1 students’ info. Your school has to transfer it if you switch schools.

7

Remington said:
Just curious, what’s SEVIS? Sorry, I’m kinda new to all this!

Got it, thanks! Makes sense now.

8

I applied to multiple schools during my STEM OPT too. Just make sure your SEVIS transfer is smooth. You’ll be good!

9

Hollis said:
I applied to multiple schools during my STEM OPT too. Just make sure your SEVIS transfer is smooth. You’ll be good!

Thanks for sharing! Good to know it’s doable.

10

When’s your STEM OPT ending? Are you planning to start school early or close to the end?

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Jamie said:
When’s your STEM OPT ending? Are you planning to start school early or close to the end?

My EAD ends in July 2025. Hoping to start my program by January 2025. I don’t think I need to wait until my OPT end date, right?

12

Jamie said:
When’s your STEM OPT ending? Are you planning to start school early or close to the end?

Nope, you’re good! You can start whenever you’re ready as long as everything’s lined up with SEVIS.

13

FYI, double-check with each university about how they handle SEVIS transfers. Each school can have a slightly different process.

14

Adair said:
FYI, double-check with each university about how they handle SEVIS transfers. Each school can have a slightly different process.

Good point! I’ll make sure to check in with the schools before applying.