Reasons to Cancel or Withdraw
It is your responsibility to submit your application to USCIS, either online or by paper mail. Failing to submit your application does not automatically cancel your OPT recommendation in SEVIS. It is important to cancel or withdraw your application if you realize that you:
- Have missed the acceptable USCIS application time frame: no more than 90 days prior to program end date and no later than 60 days after program end date. USCIS is likely to deny your OPT application if you miss this application window.
- Don’t want to do OPT at this time
- Change your post-graduation plans
Procedure: Please click on the link below based on your situation
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Before you send your application to USCIS: Cancel
Send an information request in Terra Dotta to your assigned ISS advisor to request that your OPT application be cancelled. Tell the advisor whether or not not you have submitted an OPT application to USCIS.
After you send your application to USCIS: Withdraw
Step 1:
Write a letter to USCIS to request the withdrawal of your OPT application. Include your full name, SEVIS ID number, and USCIS receipt number. You must sign and date the letter. Handwritten signatures are strongly recommended. Make a copy of your USCIS I-797C receipt notice.
Step 2:
Schedule an appointment in Terra Dotta with your assigned ISS advisor or visit ISS during drop-in advising with:
- A copy of your letter
- USCIS I-797C receipt notice
Step 3:
Mail the letter and USCIS I-797C receipt notice copy to the USCIS address on your USCIS I-797C receipt notice. Include your USCIS case status number on the outside of the envelope.
If you applied online, upload a copy of the letter to your USCIS online portal under “Unsolicited Evidence”. This is an optional step. It is still required to mail your withdraw request, even if you applied online.
If your EAD card is approved before USCIS processes the withdrawal request, you have lost your opportunity to re-apply for OPT at a later time at the same degree level.