There have been lot of frantic discussions on the blog with various sorts of information from students who have called help desk, talked to DSOs, what they see in SEVIS. There have been some recent changes with SEVIS and recent launch of SEVP Portal this year that make some of these changes automatic. Let’s look at the details.
Background of SEVIS, SEVP, SEVP Portal :
There are three things, SEVP, SEVIS and SEVP Portal. It is important to know the details.
SEVP : Firstly, SEVP is the Student and Exchange Visitors Program ( SEVP). This is the program name and not a software system.
SEVIS : SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)and is used by SEVP, DHS. “SEVIS is the web-based system for maintaining information on international students and exchange visitors US, which is primary software for DHS and it tracks and monitors non-immigrant students and exchange visitors.” SEVIS is used by Designated School Officials (DSO), who are also called as international student advisors for issuing I-20s, updating statuses of international students for events like CPT, OPT, cap gap extensions.
SEVP Portal : It is the tool that is available to post completion OPT students and STEM OPT extension students to report their address changes, phone number changes, employment changes. Either students can use SEVP portal to update the changes or ask DSO to do it for them. SEVIS and SEVP Portal share data. Student data is immediately updated from SEVP Portal to SEVIS system. But, DSO changed data in SEVIS is update to SEVP Portal once a day. SEVP Portal sends an email from do-not-reply.SEVP@ice.dhs.gov to create an account for the student, when the OPT is in approved status in SEVIS, OPT start date is not in future and student’s email ID is maintained SEVIS. DSO cannot directly access SEVP portal, but they manage many things like unlocking accounts, change email IDs, re-send the SEVP portal registration email, see report of changes, identify students. SEVP Portal is very new and introduced by SEVP on Feb 26, 2018.
Let’s first look at the SEVIS system that is used by DSO. Before we go into details, one very important part is, the below SEVIS info applies to only “Cap Gap eligible F1 students on Post Completion OPT or STEM OPT Extension”, which means it applies to students who have OPT ending date before September 30th and who have filed a H1B petition.
How does SEVIS system work for Cap Gap Extensions and H1B Petitions Changes ?
As you can see below screenshot from DHS website, SEVIS gets H1B petition data automatically from USCIS and updates the records in SEVIS to show the cap gap extension. But, systems are not always consistent with integration and data flows, there can be issues where a student’s H1B petition info was not sent properly from USCIS to SEVIS system and it does not get updated. In that context, DSO can manually request a cap gap extension for H1B petitions that are filed , waitlisted or rejected by USCIS.
What happens to F1 status, OPT end date during Cap Gap in SEVIS with H1B Petition Changes?
You have few possible options for your H1B petition like Filed, Pending, Approved, Rejected and Waitlisted statuses. Check the screenshot below and read the below section.
H1B Filed Only – No lottery Result indicated : If the system extends your OPT end date to June 1st, it only tells that your H1B petition was filed, but does not tell anything about H1B Lottery result. So, this state clearly does not tell your H1B Lottery result.
H1B Lottery Selected/ Pending Processing / Approved : The OPT end date in SEVIS system will be updated to September 30th, if it is either approved or in pending status by USCIS. What it means is that your case was selected in the lottery and is either being processed or approved.
These details are visible in SEVIS system to DSO and these also are replicated to SEVP Portal. We will look at SEVP portal later.
Can DSO Update the F1 student status in SEVIS ? If so, what can they do ?
As we mentioned earlier, not all times the data is transferred properly and there may be scenarios where SEVIS system is not updated automatically based on H1B status from USCIS. Below are the three statuses a DSO can update the system based on information provided by Student.
Filed
Rejected
Waitlisted
Cancelled
If your OPT cap gap is before June 1st and the system is not updated, you can send your Fedex Receipt and application info from Attorney/ employer and ask your DSO to update the status to filed and have your F1 status updated to June 1st. Depending on the result of Lottery and case notice details, you can subsequently work with DSO and update these details in SEVIS.
What is SEVIS Data Fix ?
If DSO has issues updating the system after he learns from the student, they should call SEVIS help desk for a data fix as shown below. Once DSO calls or emails SEVIS they will get a help desk ticket with a reference number. This can be used to expedite the request, if there are any urgent issues.
Now, let’s look at the SEVIS Portal scenarios, where many students have been posting on the blog that their OPT end date was updated and they got selected in lottery.
SEVP Portal OPT End Date Changes for Cap Gap Students – Lottery Selected ?
First and foremost, SEVP Portal and SEVIS share the same data. SEVIS system data is replicated once a day to SEVP Portal. So, both DSO or you will see the same information after the sync happens. As an F1 student on OPT, if your OPT is approved and started, you would have got an email from do-not-reply.SEVP@ice.dhs.gov to create an account. If you have missed the email by either spam or have wrong email ID in SEVIS, you can ask your DSO to re-send the registration email for SEVP Portal. You can register and create an account. For detail steps, check out SEVP Portal User Guide.
After you login, you will see the OPT end date under employment section. It looks like below. You can expand the + to see details of the employment. The key thing is the Type of OPT authorization and End Date. It should be Post Completion and the end date changes reflect your H1B petition status, depending on how the USCIS system data is updated with SEVIS.
H1B Lottery Selected : If your OPT end date in SEVP Portal under employment is changed to September 30th, it means that your H1B Petition is either in Approved or Pending status, which basically means that you were selected in H1B Lottery.
H1B Petition Filed : If your OPT end date in SEVP Portal under employment is changed to June 1st, it indicates that your H1B petition was filed, but does not indicate your petition was picked in Lottery.
Samples SEVP Portal Updates posted by Users with OPT End date Extended to September 30th ( 9/30) – H1B Lottery Selected .
Thanks to few of our readers Ash, sj, and others who have shared their SEVP Portal update with us for clarity. They look like below. Thanks to Ash,sj and others for their help !
Post Completion OPT End date Updated to September 30th.
STEM OPT Sample OPT End date updated
So, in a nutshell, if you are in cap gap scenario and have your OPT ending date updated in SEVP Portal or SEVIS as updated by DSO, you can derive that your H1B petition was either picked in H1B Lottery or not. But, one key thing, not all of the data is properly synchronized with USCIS and SEVIS and it is your duty to call DSO and update your status, if you find it out from employer that your H1B was picked in lottery or rejected. You will need to submit reject notice or case receipt copy to be able to have DSO edit your SEVIS records properly. Also, do not be disheartened that your status or end date was not updated like others as you see comments on the blog, it takes time…not everyone gets at the same time…it can take few weeks or a month or more. Until you get a reject notice, do not take anything for granted. Stay positive !
What are your thoughts ? Your experiences with SEVP Portal ? Status updates on SEVIS vs SEVP Portal ? Any other questions.
Does SEVIS gets updated for an AD applicant if his application gets selected in Regular category (65,000) quota? I’m an AD applicant but no update in SEVIS till now as per my DSO.
No update from Employer or Fragomen yet. No information whether cheque has been cashed or not. As there’s no update in my SEVIS yet, just want to know if there’s still room for hope? Whether SEVIS gets updated for AD applicant if selected in 65000 pool
For all those who have not received a receipt notice but know that the checks were cashed. Please ask your employer to get the receipt no. from the images of the cashed checks. USCIS will stamp your checks with your receipt no. on the backside for reference.
I received the receipt notice last week. Today my attorney sent me a copy of the filed petition. I have around 8 I-20. I noticed that they mixed someone’s I-20’s with mine. What to do now? Should I send I-20s again or write a letter to USCIS asking for a correction? How big is this issue?
I have lost the all hope. Last year on 2nd may they have completed all data entries as per USCIS. this time what went wrong I heard only STEM people getting receipt what about those who has done MBA-Finance no updates so far.
MBA – OPT expires June 2018. No SEVP update, my DSO confirmed no pending change of status or H1, no check encashment & of course no receipt yet. What are my chances at this stage ?
SEVP Date Update to 30th September: 04/25/2018 Cheque Cashed Update by Employer: 05/01/2018 Received Case Receipt Number: 05/09/2018 (Today) – California Service Center (WAC)
The Case Status mentioned that USCIS received my application on 12th April 2018. The processing time information on the USCIS website for California Service Center is 3.5 months to 5.5 months. Expecting approval from July to September depending on whether I get an RFE or not.
USCIS has not published the date of data entry completion yet (as they did on May 3rd last year). So there are still updates and receipts to come. Cheers!
If someone is on F-1 during Fall 2018 semester and got H1-B approved. Can he/she switch (after 1st October) to H1-B while being a student and start the job?
Does the DSO needs to know that this switch is being taken place?
No Sevp update at all since I filed h1b . SEVP is my only way to check if h1b is filed or not. Employer is not disclosing details of checks encashed or not
LOL. I’m same situtation in first part of the response. For second part i have receipt notice. Check with attorney he should have received notice by now. or atleast a coutesy copy to your employer if g28 is filed.
Similar. SEVP updated 4/27, and I have the receipt number (WAC) from the updated I-20, but no receipt notice, and Case Status tool doesn’t recognize the receipt number.
Is it prudent to wait for receipt, or start thinking about plan B? It has certainly been a while since SEVP updates for us, and a receipt shouldn’t have taken this long to come. Could the update be a false positive?
My university says that they cannot disclose SEVIS information for cases where H1B is under processing. So that option seems to be out. Any idea if I can look at some other option to find out?
Looks like this period of no formal information is going to drag on for a while.
You can request a new I-20 (which they’ll have to send you). Since it’s been a while since the SEVP update, it’ll very likely show a pending H-1B along with the receipt number in the cap-gap section.
In my case too, the school wasn’t entertaining questions about checking SEVIS status, but asking for the I-20 is fairly foolproof.
@TerrificDude: Did you hear back on the receipt yet?
You and I both, man… guess we have to wait it out another few days. On balance, at least there is a few of us like that, so maybe the game is not over yet.
I got the mail from my lawyer saying that they have received the receipt number. On checking the status online, I could see my case being approved. Just wait a bit, you should be getting yours soon.
my sevis got updated on 04/30. I have a job offer for which the employer filed a h1 application as well. Is the update to sevis portal only related to current opt employer?
Slow down, cowboy, it is only starting!! Receipts are still being sent out…but it could take anywhere from a month to over 12 months depending on what tricks USCIS pulls out their bags this time around!! Buckle up for the ride! Hopefully, your case sails through without any RFEs…
My OPT STEM expires June, 2019 and I saw some updates for “Relation to Field” on 4.17 (just comma added for sentence). I know this update has been discussed multiple times during these days. At least until now, no news from my HR. I am not able to find if check has been cashed or not. I requested a new I20 from my DSO on 4.27, empty on COS field.
Just wondering if anybody else has the similar situation, I went through some comments and found most of you who have “Relation to Field” updates were selected in the lottery. With the time going forward, hope is gradually vanishing, but I don’t want to give up.
I got those “Relation to field” changes on 5/2 and received the notice on 5/4, so, stay positive. At least USCIS still hasn’t announced that they’ve finished the data entry
Could you pleas tell me where that comma is added?
It’s added between my company name, it used to be XXX Corporate LLC and now it’s XXX Corporate, LLC
Hey Ethan, I also have the same edit as you, have you seen any update on your SEVP ? I am non-stem, OPT expire before 10.1.
Hey Rachtel,
My STEM OPT ends at the end of this year, so there’s no other updates on my SEVP.
I am AD and STEM ends in Jan 2019. I did see some commas being added in Relation to Field. In addition I saw my foreign telephone number was updated. But no update yet on receipt number or can’t get any check cashing info. I do not know if this is updated by DSO or USCIS.
I just a minute ago received the confirmation from my lawyer that USCIS accepted my application for processing. I am in AD category. I requested my university to reset my SEVP registration last week (I missed the first registration email), however, they still did not do it until now.
That’s not possible. By definition, MBA is a master’s degree (it’s in the name) and would be an AD. It’s up to your lawyers to make sure they filed your application under AD if you have indeed graduated.
Can some clear the confusion the masters guys who fall into 65000 count for second chance lottery who didn’t get selected in 20000 count are considered as non ad or ad ??
Update: STEM OPT ending in Jan 2019 and this is the last try. I got “RELATION TO FIELD” update on April 20th. I requested for new I-20 from school and I see “H1-B Pending” with receipt number WAC1815XXXXXXX in the Change of status section. I believe my petition is selected in lottery?
They added commas to relation to field section.My employer name has a comma and they added it. It changed on april 20th and I created the portal on march 25th.
Cool! So any news of cheque getting cashed yet? And when was your I20 generated? I mean after hoe many days after seeing SEVP update!
Hey, I just got the receipt from my lawyer. One update happened on april 20th and another happened on may 3rd ( same day on which my new I-20 was generated ). The notice date on official receipt is 4/30. Hope that helps
Hi, thanks for all the comment. I’m new in the game, I’m on OPT AD non stem, applied H1-B but likely no chance (no updates and no receipt till now). My employer also sponsors my EB2 and we just filed the PERM in 4/30/18. My next status, I already enrolled to my 2nd master, I can get F1. My question is: how can u continue my work while I’m waiting for the PERM? I’m working as Behavior consultant (design and implement Behavior plan for individual with disabilities especially for autism population), l have 18 clients that requires my intensive works with them. My employer is constantly hiring but this industry is tough to hire as we need professional license and I have license too. I don’t mind to work as volunteer while I’m waiting for the PERM but my attorney told me working as volunteer is illegal. My employer and all my patients will have huge negative impact if I cannot work. In short, how can I continue my work while I’m waiting for EB2? Can I work as volunteer for free? I really don’t mind to work for free because I don’t want to harm my patients. Pls advise.
Why are you asking all this here? Can’t you see, everyone is freaking out here for their h1b results? Ask the immigration attorney your this question as it’s quite complex and required some knowledge about immigration laws.
EB2 takes a long time during which you would need ‘Employment Authorization” or a Work visa to work legally. What is the status of your current employment authorization? If you are on OPT, you can work until the end of your OPT after which you will have 60 days to change to another status or leave the country. F1 does not in itself give you the ability to work unless it is OPT or CPT.
The PERM process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to get it approved by the Department of Labor (DOL), followed by the I-140 and I-485 adjustment of status. Once the PERM is approved, the I-140 – Petition for Alien Employee and I-485 – Adjustment of status to permanent resident can be filed concurrently if you are from a country whose priority dates are current during which time you can apply for “Employment Authorization (EAD)” and “Advanced Travel parole” based on the pending I-485 application
The whole EB2 process takes averagely 2 years to get your green card, and to work during the process you will need to have a valid employment authorization or work visa via OPT, CPT, H1B, H4 EAD, O-1, L1B, I-485 EAD etc. during the process.
Do consult a qualified immigration attorney to explain the options specific to your case and the best of luck.
Also, it is still a little early to give up on the H1B lottery results for this year. you may just get a receipt
STEM OPT ending in jan 2019. SEVP “Relation to field” updated on april 20th (Not sure if it has any relation). No word from lawyers, nothing in SEVIS, no check cashed. Losing hope as everyday passes. 🙁
Maybe data entry is indeed in order of names masters cap A to Z happened first regular cap A to Z happening now could be wrong. either way I am screwed this year 🙁
it would help if people who are getting latest updates just gave starting letter of their first_name and starting letter of Lastname. I understand privacy issue, but just the starting letter helps us figure this out
Do not loos your Hope. I did received my receipt from my HR yesterday. No Update in SEVIS as My SEM OPT Ends in March 2019. Iast my last attempt as i wont qualify for cap gap next year.
Notice Date : 04/24 Receipt on : 05/03 Center : CA
And it not based on A to Z order. Read Older comments for this some one did some analysis. My First name starts with M and Last Name with B. All the best for every one!
AD – Check Cashed – No update in SEVP – My employer just confirmed that my check was cashed. – OPT ends on Sep 24, 2018, but I don’t see any change on SEVP portal.
Hi Vishnu… so you are on stem opt and your opt ends by Sep. But, still you are not able to see any update on SEVP portal? May i know the 1st initial of your surname?
Same question. My STEM OPT expires In Jan 2019 and I asked DSO if they see any changes in my status and she said she didn’t see any change. Wondering is it becasue my OPT expires next year?
For my school, I have to call/email the DSO and specifically ask if my change of status request is active or pending. They can look it up without generating the new I-20.
If the status is pending and if you have requested new I-20 the receipt number will be displayed on the I-20.
SEVP is not getting updated for everyone. And it will definitely not be updated for people whose OPT is expiring after 9/30.
My husband’s checks got cashed, but we haven’t seen any update on his portal.
Hope this helps!
Waiting to see the “Data entry completion” mail from USCIS anytime soon. As an AD candidate, might signal the end if no SEVP update found. No planB yet.
me too. I do not know what to do. Should I pack up and go back to my home country? Should I temporarily move to Canada and try getting a PR? What I do know is that I put in a lot of effort to come here, do my MBA on a full scholarship from an Ivy League school, get a great job with company stock, almost ready to purchase my first Aston Martin car, and now realize that all of my goals, can and probably will be snuffed away with a freaking lottery, AND, that I am going back to square one, in another country, to redo everything that I have now achieved. Now I wish I had never achieved the success that I have. It wouldn’t feel bad to go back to nothing from nothing. 🙁
I feel so sorry for you. Though I got lucky this time, I still support Merit based Immigration. I feel people as deserving as you are should be given another chance or an alternate route. I wish you all the best. There were SEVP updates yesterday too. Please wait at least for another couple of weeks.
Bro, If you are in such a good company, Ask them to relocate you to Canada or UK and apply for H1b next year. I know moving sucks but you are from an Ivy University and companies do go that far to retain the best talent. If one door closes there are 100 that are waiting to be opened. Good Luck 🙂
I do not think its over for you yet. An MBA from an Ivy League is a big deal. I am sure other countries like Canada would love to have you. Just give it a try.
My business unit was shutdown and all employees laid off 2 days after USCIS closed the lottery. I started giving interviews and have 3 offers within the same company but this is my last attempt and I cannot join until I hear good news about my H1B. Can’t ask them to transfer me to a different country because I still haven’t even accepted the offers and its a bit too much to ask for. Everyone is facing hard times because of a stupid immigration system. I’m tired and there is nothing I can do now so I’m on a vacation now. Financial responsibilities and everything aside, it’s all about happiness and I see no point in worrying about things that aren’t in our hands.
Do not lose faith, I’m sure the MBA degree from Cornell is priceless and will be never limited by your VISA status. It is the only thing that will stay with you for a lifetime.
I’m in the last year of Stem OPT. I have been checking the sevis portal very frequently since a week. Yesterday in the history tab, I saw my profile was deleted by Sevis. What does it mean?
I Give up my US dreams. Was making great and had great time here.!!! When life doesn’t gives something big you deserve, that means something even bigger is coming for you. So B+VE ?
I also got my SEVP updated to Sep 30 today but have not heard anything from my employer or Attorney. How is this that SEVP is updated but attorney has not got any information? My attorney is otherwise very quick on updating.
Saw a lot of “Relation to Field” discussion here. Not sure if mine is exactly the same: – – “Relation to Field” got updated on 4/20 (added a comma) and Address got updated too (lower case to capitals and added a second line); – OPT expires before Oct 2019 and no updates there.
Still no news from the lawyer and one of my colleagues today got his receipt (issue date 4/24).
But u said your profile updated on ‘ My “Relation to field” updated on 4/16’ ?
Yea, I created my login after that. I guess everyone’s accounts are already created doesn’t matter if you’ve logged in or not. When I logged in, “Relation to field” was update was there in history.
Checks cashed 5/1/2018 SEVP updated to 9/30 – Just now (5/3/2018) STEM OPT expiring 6/25/2018
May be this will help some of the folks following this forum. I was in a similar situation as some of you: was seeing some changes in the relation to field but did not have much else (STEM ending in Feb 2019). But got the email from the lawyer today morning about the receipt.
You could check if the employer identification number in the relation to field update is different from the original employer identification number in the STEM in the sevp portal. That would seem to indicate that something has changed.
This is interesting.. So my STEM OPT is ending in Jan 2019. I had SEVP portal updates to “Relation to Field” on April 20th, that simply added commas. Still no word from lawyer, no check cashed, no info from DSO. On April 27th I noted that my job title was not fully entered and I corrected it.
Today (05/03) , I got an update on the SEVP portal source “SEVIS” with 4 rows. 1) Title – No Change 2) Employer Name – New section one has comma added. 3) Supervisor Phone Number Ext – No Change 4) Relation To Field – New section got edited ( removed a sentence )
Looking at all this, I guess updates to various fields except authorization end date might not indicate lottery selection.
Also, I had requested for new I-20 day before yesterday and my DSO replied back today saying that I-20 is generated. I’m guessing these updates are coming because of that.
I meant the employer # used by SEVIS / SEVP for various records, it possibly does not have any meaning outside SEVIS/SEVP. If you see your EMPLOYMENT tab, everything begins with a number, that is the employer #. So note this number in the entry for STEM extension. Also in the HISTORY tab , the entry for ‘relation to’ field change also has a number (something like Relation To Field (53XXXXX)). My theory is the two numbers become different when there is a SEVIS record update . This is true even when you are with the same employer. I see different numbers for my OPT, STEM and relation to field update . This is just my theory and does not have to be correct.
The number directly under employment isn’t employer number, that’s why they are not the same. You should click the button under the employment , where employer # is inside.
Hi my sevis portal is updated and my university issued receipt number on the i20 I requested for stem opt extension.
But I have a issue with applying for stem opt please read my below e-mail which I sent to my attorney (still awaiting for reply) and let me know if anyone has any suggestions or if anyone are in similar situation
My school changed my opt end date as sep 30 2018 instead of June 15 2018 as the authorization end date is changed in sevis.
However as they requested stem opt start date as October 1st 2018 on i20 I am not sure if I can apply for stem opt extension now as it is more than 90 days from the start date.
Also if I do not apply the stem opt now my actual expiry date on EAD card will be passed and I am not sure if I can apply with this i20 after June 15 2018.
I am confused at this point and I am not sure if I can apply for the stem opt with this i20.
As you mentioned earlier H1B processing is being difficult in case if it’s revoked or denied the cap gap which is till September 30th will be terminated automatically and I won’t be having any status between July and October as my school requested the stem opt start date from October 1st 2018
Please advise me on how to proceed with applying for stem opt as this seems quite complicated and my actual end date for opt is approaching.
Should I ask my school to change the start date to June 15th instead ? (Is this i20 any different from stem opt i20 can the school actually change my opt end date to sep 30 instead of the date which reflects on my EAD card)
Or
If I can apply with this i20 when should I be applying ( before June 18th or September 30th)?
Stem extension should be applied before the end date on your original EAD card. You cannot apply for STEM extension after the end date on the EAD card. Check with your DSO on how you can resolve this issue.
31. Once I receive my new I-20 for STEM extension, it indicates Oct. 1st as the start date rather than the day after the end of my EAD for 12-months OPT. Is this an error? This is a known issue and unfortunately not something that the ISSO has control over. Because SEVP has received your H1B request, your SEVIS record shows change of status pending and has the cap gap memo at the bottom. The start date automatically defaults to October 1 because of the H1B fiscal year. There is nothing our office can do to change this however we automatically issue a letter for you to use with your new I-20 in your STEM OPT application requesting USCIS to use the actual dates from the EAD. If you have an immigration attorney, you can speak with him/her regarding this if you’d like but in the meantime we encourage you to submit the STEM extension application if you are still unsure whether or not your H1B will be approved.
I asked many people regarding this thank you so much for letting me know that its a known issue I will apply for it before june my actual opt end date even if i20 shows start date as october ist 2018.
My only question is it will not affect the H1B approval right because in case if both are approved the opt extension should not supersede H1B extension.
Does SEVIS gets updated for an AD applicant if his application gets selected in Regular category (65,000) quota? I’m an AD applicant but no update in SEVIS till now as per my DSO.
has your cheque been cashed or any update from your employer ?
No update from Employer or Fragomen yet. No information whether cheque has been cashed or not. As there’s no update in my SEVIS yet, just want to know if there’s still room for hope? Whether SEVIS gets updated for AD applicant if selected in 65000 pool
My friend got her receipt yesterday, no sevp update. Adv non-stem. I think there is still hope for us!
For all those who have not received a receipt notice but know that the checks were cashed.
Please ask your employer to get the receipt no. from the images of the cashed checks. USCIS will stamp your checks with your receipt no. on the backside for reference.
Hope this helps.
i didn’t see any receipt # on back of check…
I received the receipt notice last week. Today my attorney sent me a copy of the filed petition. I have around 8 I-20. I noticed that they mixed someone’s I-20’s with mine. What to do now? Should I send I-20s again or write a letter to USCIS asking for a correction? How big is this issue?
don’t worry if they really need it. they will generate an rfe
I have lost the all hope. Last year on 2nd may they have completed all data entries as per USCIS. this time what went wrong I heard only STEM people getting receipt what about those who has done MBA-Finance no updates so far.
I am on stem opt, last attempt and I know another 4 ppl in the same situation as me. We not received any receipt or sevp update till now 🙁
Let me also join in on this sad group of last attempters. Stem opt expiring next month. No receipt, no SEVP update
I am in the same boat as you but mine is architecture . No update 🙁
They never said anything about H1B data completion. Only cw-1
MBA – OPT expires June 2018. No SEVP update, my DSO confirmed no pending change of status or H1, no check encashment & of course no receipt yet. What are my chances at this stage ?
I am in the same boat. MBA, Non-STEM and no update on SEVP. OPT expires in June end 2018.
I got SEVIS portal update on May 4th. No case receipt number from lawyer yet. So is this SEVIS thing reliable? Anyone in the same condition?
Thanks!
SEVIS is reliable. You can ask for a new I-20. It should get you details
Same with me. Sevis updated on May 2nd, still waiting on receipt
Did you get the receipt? I am still waiting and starting to get worried…
What is the sevis update you see?
Is it end date change to 9/30?
Or just some “Relation to Field: updates like added commas/address updates?
If dates, you can rely on that, but others my DSO said they are updated by them. not USCIS.
My authorization end date was changed. Thanks for the info.
Received sevp update – 4/30
Received case number from dso -5/1
The attorny has still not received anything from USCIS. Is anyone facing similar time frame?
Can sev p update and dso’s info on status change to H1b pending be reliable?
It is absolutely reliable. Receipts are sent through regular mail so give it some time.
Similar case. I had an SEVP update on April 20 (so a while back), but nothing from attorney. I don’t have a case number thought. What is that?
SEVP Date Update to 30th September: 04/25/2018
Cheque Cashed Update by Employer: 05/01/2018
Received Case Receipt Number: 05/09/2018 (Today) – California Service Center (WAC)
The Case Status mentioned that USCIS received my application on 12th April 2018. The processing time information on the USCIS website for California Service Center is 3.5 months to 5.5 months. Expecting approval from July to September depending on whether I get an RFE or not.
USCIS has not published the date of data entry completion yet (as they did on May 3rd last year). So there are still updates and receipts to come. Cheers!
Hi All,
If someone is on F-1 during Fall 2018 semester and got H1-B approved. Can he/she switch (after 1st October) to H1-B while being a student and start the job?
Does the DSO needs to know that this switch is being taken place?
Thanks.
I don’t understand. H1b visa is for working individuals. Are you working part-time? How can you be a full-time student and be on H1b?
Doesnt matter now whether you work or not. all matter is that you have to work after approval. h1b visa is for individuals to work in usa
its automatic.. if h1b approved from oct 1st you no longer be on F1. “Change of status”!!!!!
Hi Dude,
Thank you for answering.
Does that mean on 1st October SEVIS will automatically get closed? How will DSO get to know about H1-B approval?
Is there something called as H1-B SEVIS, where those on full time job pursing degree have to maintain a record with DSO?
It closes on 1st October even if the joining data of the new job is lets say 16th October?
Thanks.
yes sevis gets complete. Dso will see that status on his or her sevis portal.
and change of status approved … remember only if your h1 is approved
Any updates for NON -AD Folks ?
Anyone heard news ?
Same here, non-AD third time.
There is no news about non-ADs. Looks like only ADs got picked in the lottery this year.
Sevis updated on 04/25
Dso confirmed and gave recipt no on 04/28
Attorney received recipt on 05/08
No Sevp update at all since I filed h1b . SEVP is my only way to check if h1b is filed or not.
Employer is not disclosing details of checks encashed or not
Any AD applicants still receiving SEVP updates or checks getting cashed ? My hopes dead anyways 🙁
Believe nothing since yesterday. Screwed…
same question?
Non-AD person on another thread reported that his/her SEVIS is updated today. All the best
Can you please another tread link if possible? Thanks!
https://redbus2us.com/uscis-news-h1b-2019-lottery-completed-190098-petitions-filed/comment-page-6/#comment-1255187
Post by Mit at MAY 8, 2018 14:20:46 CDT
Checks Cashed – 5/3/2018
As of today morning no update on SEVP.
Receipt not yet received.
OPT extensions expires 6/14/2018.
Is anyone in similar boat?
When should I expect the receipt or SEVP update?
Similar boat except no info about cheque.
Welcome to the Titanic.
same boat. My OPT end 05/28/2018 and my check still hasnt been cashed. Non-AD.
All hope are lost and I’ll probably apply for O-1 Visa
@PP
At least your checks are cashed. That indicates you are selected. It takes some time for your receipt notice to arrive.
Any updates for non-AD folks from California Service Center?
I have the same question. I heaven’t heard of any non-AD updates from any of my friends.
Vermont non-AD applicants have started hearing back; haven’t seen or heard of any updates from California.
My friend and I, both CA non-AD, saw updates last Thursday
Got my update today. Non_AD from California!
Is anyone with an SEVP update to 09/30 done on 04/20 still waiting for receipt from lawyer?
Hey CD its Whit here… did your wife got thru?
I am single, so don’t have a partner. Are you in the same situation as me? i.e. SEVP update on 04/20 but no word from lawyer?
LOL. I’m same situtation in first part of the response.
For second part i have receipt notice. Check with attorney he should have received notice by now. or atleast a coutesy copy to your employer if g28 is filed.
My attorney has not connected with me yet. They told me late last week they have not received anything yet. Not sure what is going on.
Same here !!! SEVP updated on 04/20 and waiting for receipt.
Not sure what is going on. Guess we have to wait more? Are receipts still coming in?
Same story. Date got updated on 4/23/18 but nothing from lawyer.
Similar. SEVP updated 4/27, and I have the receipt number (WAC) from the updated I-20, but no receipt notice, and Case Status tool doesn’t recognize the receipt number.
Is it prudent to wait for receipt, or start thinking about plan B? It has certainly been a while since SEVP updates for us, and a receipt shouldn’t have taken this long to come. Could the update be a false positive?
Definitely try getting the receipt number from your school.
My attorney told me that every year they see a case or two where the approval shows up without ever receiving the receipt notice.
My university says that they cannot disclose SEVIS information for cases where H1B is under processing. So that option seems to be out. Any idea if I can look at some other option to find out?
Looks like this period of no formal information is going to drag on for a while.
You can request a new I-20 (which they’ll have to send you). Since it’s been a while since the SEVP update, it’ll very likely show a pending H-1B along with the receipt number in the cap-gap section.
In my case too, the school wasn’t entertaining questions about checking SEVIS status, but asking for the I-20 is fairly foolproof.
@TerrificDude: Did you hear back on the receipt yet?
No. Nothing yet. My school requires H1b receipt to generate the I20. So, I am in a limbo right now. Got no other option.
You and I both, man… guess we have to wait it out another few days. On balance, at least there is a few of us like that, so maybe the game is not over yet.
I got the mail from my lawyer saying that they have received the receipt number. On checking the status online, I could see my case being approved. Just wait a bit, you should be getting yours soon.
Hi
my sevis got updated on 04/30. I have a job offer for which the employer filed a h1 application as well. Is the update to sevis portal only related to current opt employer?
Same Soc code and title for both employers?
no both have different soc code and job title
My SEVP was updated on 04/17 and received my receipt on 05/01.
When shall we expect to see the approvals?
Could take any time from 2 to 12 months
Slow down, cowboy, it is only starting!! Receipts are still being sent out…but it could take anywhere from a month to over 12 months depending on what tricks USCIS pulls out their bags this time around!! Buckle up for the ride! Hopefully, your case sails through without any RFEs…
Hi all,
My OPT STEM expires June, 2019 and I saw some updates for “Relation to Field” on 4.17 (just comma added for sentence). I know this update has been discussed multiple times during these days. At least until now, no news from my HR. I am not able to find if check has been cashed or not. I requested a new I20 from my DSO on 4.27, empty on COS field.
Just wondering if anybody else has the similar situation, I went through some comments and found most of you who have “Relation to Field” updates were selected in the lottery. With the time going forward, hope is gradually vanishing, but I don’t want to give up.
When did you create your account?
4.17, but the update time is before I created my account.
I got those “Relation to field” changes on 5/2 and received the notice on 5/4, so, stay positive. At least USCIS still hasn’t announced that they’ve finished the data entry
Hi ,
Could you pleas tell me where that comma is added?
It’s added between my company name, it used to be XXX Corporate LLC and now it’s XXX Corporate, LLC
Hey Ethan, I also have the same edit as you, have you seen any update on your SEVP ? I am non-stem, OPT expire before 10.1.
Hey Rachtel,
My STEM OPT ends at the end of this year, so there’s no other updates on my SEVP.
I am AD and STEM ends in Jan 2019.
I did see some commas being added in Relation to Field. In addition I saw my foreign telephone number was updated.
But no update yet on receipt number or can’t get any check cashing info.
I do not know if this is updated by DSO or USCIS.
Talked to DSO today, and she said SEVP updates like commas, telephone number and address are done by them. Was hoping it was by USCIS.
My application got picked in the lottery, but my SEVP has not been updated with the new OPT end date (it still shows 7/21). Is this normal?
How do you know that your application has been picked in the lottery ? Did you receive any receipt ?? Congrats !!
Thanks! Yes, I got the receipt
When did you receive your receipt?
I got it last Thursday, 5/3, although the notice date is 4/26
I am also facing the same situation. No SEVP update; however received a receipt # from the attorney.
You need to contact your DSO to make those changes.
I hope this helps!
DSO is not aware of Change-of-status yet. I-797C should be enough, no?
@Raihan,
No, I have seen case where person traveled on new H1 for stamping and s/he had issue while immigration as the SAVIS wasn’t updated.
So, Guys/girls whose SEVIS isn’t updated but received H1 receipt, contact DSO to make necessary changes.
Hope this helps.
Thanks!
Anyone got good news today? AD or non-AD? sevp/check cashed/receipts?
Non AD. Vermont center. Just now my employer told my check has been cashed. All the best guys. Keep faith in god.
NO NEW 🙁
I just a minute ago received the confirmation from my lawyer that USCIS accepted my application for processing. I am in AD category. I requested my university to reset my SEVP registration last week (I missed the first registration email), however, they still did not do it until now.
what about general quota selection for MBA degree?
so far I only read comments about master + stem people. what about 1 year OPT genral quota candidate?
Any MBA-USA candidate?
I am a US MBA candidate and i heard last week. Most of my MBA classmates have heard too. We would still fall within the AD quota.
I did from Monroe College. I heard that many MBA doesnt go under Master quota and it goes to gnrl quota. its all depend on college is it true?
Wt are the chances now ? have any idea. I also heard that 15th May last expectation day !
That’s not possible. By definition, MBA is a master’s degree (it’s in the name) and would be an AD. It’s up to your lawyers to make sure they filed your application under AD if you have indeed graduated.
That is definitely not true.
An MBA is considered an advanced degree regardless of the US university you graduate from.
from lca# can we find-out under which quota my H1 has been filed?
So the game of masters degree folks in 65000 quota also done ????
If you think! I still keep hope!!
so
I have a friend who is AD, she got the receipt last Friday but no SEVP update. I’m still hoping.
is there still hope for AD category ?
Can some clear the confusion the masters guys who fall into 65000 count for second chance lottery who didn’t get selected in 20000 count are considered as non ad or ad ??
The application should still be considered AD.
Hi Guys,
Thanks for all the posts during the entire process. Very helpful to gauge the situation with all your posts.
My SEVP portal was update to from 6/12 to 9/30 on Friday May 4th, afternoon.
Non-AD, Non-Stem, Bachelors in US
Vermont Service Center I think.
Goodluck to all 🙂 Hope the ones waiting hear back soon.
When was your check encashed?
Any idea when is data entry completion announced
Last two years, it was done by this time. Given that some non-ADs are only now trickling in, I would expect it to be done either this week or next.
Update:
STEM OPT ending in Jan 2019 and this is the last try.
I got “RELATION TO FIELD” update on April 20th. I requested for new I-20 from school and I see “H1-B Pending” with receipt number WAC1815XXXXXXX in the Change of status section. I believe my petition is selected in lottery?
No receipt or news of check cashed yet from employer.
Yes, it’s picked. Congrats !! Could you tell us what was the change for you in portal? And when did you create the SEVP portal ?
They added commas to relation to field section.My employer name has a comma and they added it. It changed on april 20th and I created the portal on march 25th.
Cool! So any news of cheque getting cashed yet? And when was your I20 generated? I mean after hoe many days after seeing SEVP update!
Hey, I just got the receipt from my lawyer. One update happened on april 20th and another happened on may 3rd ( same day on which my new I-20 was generated ). The notice date on official receipt is 4/30. Hope that helps
Congrats! Kudos to theory of relation-vity!
So the masters degree game is done ???
Same question?
Non-AD, currently on OPT.
SEVP updated on 5/2 to 9 / 30
Waiting for more updates.
Can you tell when this SEVP update happened?
Hi, thanks for all the comment. I’m new in the game, I’m on OPT AD non stem, applied H1-B but likely no chance (no updates and no receipt till now). My employer also sponsors my EB2 and we just filed the PERM in 4/30/18. My next status, I already enrolled to my 2nd master, I can get F1. My question is: how can u continue my work while I’m waiting for the PERM? I’m working as Behavior consultant (design and implement Behavior plan for individual with disabilities especially for autism population), l have 18 clients that requires my intensive works with them. My employer is constantly hiring but this industry is tough to hire as we need professional license and I have license too. I don’t mind to work as volunteer while I’m waiting for the PERM but my attorney told me working as volunteer is illegal. My employer and all my patients will have huge negative impact if I cannot work. In short, how can I continue my work while I’m waiting for EB2? Can I work as volunteer for free? I really don’t mind to work for free because I don’t want to harm my patients.
Pls advise.
Cherry pie
Why are you asking all this here? Can’t you see, everyone is freaking out here for their h1b results? Ask the immigration attorney your this question as it’s quite complex and required some knowledge about immigration laws.
EB2 takes a long time during which you would need ‘Employment Authorization” or a Work visa to work legally. What is the status of your current employment authorization? If you are on OPT, you can work until the end of your OPT after which you will have 60 days to change to another status or leave the country. F1 does not in itself give you the ability to work unless it is OPT or CPT.
The PERM process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to get it approved by the Department of Labor (DOL), followed by the I-140 and I-485 adjustment of status.
Once the PERM is approved, the I-140 – Petition for Alien Employee and I-485 – Adjustment of status to permanent resident can be filed concurrently if you are from a country whose priority dates are current during which time you can apply for “Employment Authorization (EAD)” and “Advanced Travel parole” based on the pending I-485 application
The whole EB2 process takes averagely 2 years to get your green card, and to work during the process you will need to have a valid employment authorization or work visa via OPT, CPT, H1B, H4 EAD, O-1, L1B, I-485 EAD etc. during the process.
Do consult a qualified immigration attorney to explain the options specific to your case and the best of luck.
Also, it is still a little early to give up on the H1B lottery results for this year. you may just get a receipt
Is it game over for AD?
Might be..I believe atleast 90% of AD should have been over by now.
What is AD? Non-AD?
NON-AD SEVP status updated yesterday.
How can you have access to SEVP portal if you are Non AD. Have you completed Bachelors in the US?
same question
Yes, non-ADs (Bachelor’s degree holders) with OPT and Stem Opt have sevp portals too. No update nor any news for me, though.
I think Bachelors r the only non-AD category with SEVP updates. Already saw another person mentioning it in comments.
US bachelor degree and on OPT now. That’s why I have access to SEVP
Literally thousands of foreign students arrive in the US for their bachelor’s — it’s not that rare lol
All opt have sevp portal
Can you please tell me which center your petition is filed in – Vermont or California?
The question is to @GamblingFuture and @anko
Same situation 🙁
do checks get cashed even after data entry is completed?
My Sevis got updated today morning. My original OPT end date was in June. Now changed to 9/30/18.
I had lost hope completely and the update was a surprise! Stay positive guys. Good luck to everyone waiting.
AD?
Yes
Last Name Letter? (Just searching for anything that will keep me positive!)
For sure, USCIS doesnt update based on last name letters. I have seen this with friends of mine.
Congratulations!
Same situation and wait on the result
Similar situation.
STEM OPT ending in jan 2019. SEVP “Relation to field” updated on april 20th (Not sure if it has any relation). No word from lawyers, nothing in SEVIS, no check cashed. Losing hope as everyday passes. 🙁
Same situation as yours
Maybe data entry is indeed in order of names
masters cap A to Z happened first
regular cap A to Z happening now
could be wrong. either way I am screwed this year 🙁
it would help if people who are getting latest updates just gave starting letter of their first_name and starting letter of Lastname.
I understand privacy issue, but just the starting letter helps us figure this out
My last name starts with V, SEVP updated on May 2nd. Hope that helps.
My name starts with Y.. SEVP updated today morning… I dont know if it is of any help to you…
Hi ALL,
Do not loos your Hope. I did received my receipt from my HR yesterday. No Update in SEVIS as My SEM OPT Ends in March 2019. Iast my last attempt as i wont qualify for cap gap next year.
Notice Date : 04/24
Receipt on : 05/03
Center : CA
And it not based on A to Z order. Read Older comments for this some one did some analysis. My First name starts with M and Last Name with B. All the best for every one!
@DontLooseHope!!
Did you got your check cashed before you received notice?
Wow, talk about over analyzing things.
Does Cap-Gap extension lead to update in OPT STEM request date in I20 if STEM extension is pending at the time of sevis update?
Anyone who requested a Cap-Gap I20 with STEM extension still pending with USCIS ?
AD – Check Cashed – No update in SEVP
– My employer just confirmed that my check was cashed.
– OPT ends on Sep 24, 2018, but I don’t see any change on SEVP portal.
Congrats. Still waiting.
Congrats. Good to see that AD people are still receiving. Hoping the trend continues.
Congrats!!
Hi Vishnu… so you are on stem opt and your opt ends by Sep. But, still you are not able to see any update on SEVP portal? May i know the 1st initial of your surname?
Also the details on when your check was cashed?
Question to the AD applicants whose OPT expires after 9/30 who got news from DSO,
So, the pending change of status was displayed only on new I-20 or the DSO was able to see that on his/her SEVIS portal ?
Thank you in advance!
Same question. My STEM OPT expires In Jan 2019 and I asked DSO if they see any changes in my status and she said she didn’t see any change. Wondering is it becasue my OPT expires next year?
I don’t think so because I have friends whose STEM Extension expires n Jan 2019 managed to get receipt numbers from DSO.
@Last Attempt,
I am sorry, my question was unclear to you. I know that DSO will know either way if the OPT is expiring before or after 9/30.
My question was how s/he got to know? S/he got email or the update on his/her SEVIS portal or only after generating new I-20?
I hope this time I am clear on what I want to know.
Thank you in advance!
@FY2019Master’s CAP
For my school, I have to call/email the DSO and specifically ask if my change of status request is active or pending. They can look it up without generating the new I-20.
If the status is pending and if you have requested new I-20 the receipt number will be displayed on the I-20.
SEVP is not getting updated for everyone. And it will definitely not be updated for people whose OPT is expiring after 9/30.
My husband’s checks got cashed, but we haven’t seen any update on his portal.
Hope this helps!
Waiting to see the “Data entry completion” mail from USCIS anytime soon. As an AD candidate, might signal the end if no SEVP update found. No planB yet.
I feel you. 🙁
me too. I do not know what to do. Should I pack up and go back to my home country? Should I temporarily move to Canada and try getting a PR? What I do know is that I put in a lot of effort to come here, do my MBA on a full scholarship from an Ivy League school, get a great job with company stock, almost ready to purchase my first Aston Martin car, and now realize that all of my goals, can and probably will be snuffed away with a freaking lottery, AND, that I am going back to square one, in another country, to redo everything that I have now achieved. Now I wish I had never achieved the success that I have. It wouldn’t feel bad to go back to nothing from nothing. 🙁
I feel so sorry for you. Though I got lucky this time, I still support Merit based Immigration. I feel people as deserving as you are should be given another chance or an alternate route. I wish you all the best. There were SEVP updates yesterday too. Please wait at least for another couple of weeks.
Same here but AUDI and not Aston Martin though ?
Bro, If you are in such a good company, Ask them to relocate you to Canada or UK and apply for H1b next year. I know moving sucks but you are from an Ivy University and companies do go that far to retain the best talent. If one door closes there are 100 that are waiting to be opened. Good Luck 🙂
Depends on the company policy. Sometimes, the company is extremely picky about their employees staying in a certain office.
I do not think its over for you yet. An MBA from an Ivy League is a big deal. I am sure other countries like Canada would love to have you. Just give it a try.
My business unit was shutdown and all employees laid off 2 days after USCIS closed the lottery. I started giving interviews and have 3 offers within the same company but this is my last attempt and I cannot join until I hear good news about my H1B. Can’t ask them to transfer me to a different country because I still haven’t even accepted the offers and its a bit too much to ask for. Everyone is facing hard times because of a stupid immigration system. I’m tired and there is nothing I can do now so I’m on a vacation now. Financial responsibilities and everything aside, it’s all about happiness and I see no point in worrying about things that aren’t in our hands.
Do not lose faith, I’m sure the MBA degree from Cornell is priceless and will be never limited by your VISA status. It is the only thing that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Same here mate. I have been having nightmares about getting kicked out of the country and the job.
I’m in the last year of Stem OPT. I have been checking the sevis portal very frequently since a week. Yesterday in the history tab, I saw my profile was deleted by Sevis. What does it mean?
I see the same in my SEVP portal too. Not sure what it means??
Maybe further updates will come in?
I Give up my US dreams.
Was making great and had great time here.!!!
When life doesn’t gives something big you deserve, that means something even bigger is coming for you. So B+VE ?
Non-AD
Last attempt (3rd)
SEVP updated this afternoon from June.1st -> Sep.30.
Good luck everyone!
I also got my SEVP updated to Sep 30 today but have not heard anything from my employer or Attorney. How is this that SEVP is updated but attorney has not got any information? My attorney is otherwise very quick on updating.
@Rain is coming , if you are non-AD how do you have access to SEVP portal?
SEVP portal updated this afternoon. Last chance. STEM OPT ending July 29th.
Ad or non-AD?
AD
Saw a lot of “Relation to Field” discussion here. Not sure if mine is exactly the same: –
– “Relation to Field” got updated on 4/20 (added a comma) and Address got updated too (lower case to capitals and added a second line);
– OPT expires before Oct 2019 and no updates there.
Still no news from the lawyer and one of my colleagues today got his receipt (issue date 4/24).
Don’t know how to read about this now 🙁
have you requested for a new I-20?
School is not being helpful.
“Relation to Field” do not know what this mean? where can I find this one?
It’s in your SEVP portal
Hi RL,
Have you got any update? I have similar SEVP update like yours. Address to Upper Case and commas added.
No receipt or check info. Let me know if you got something.
Hi,
SEVP portal has been updated on 04/25. As of now, no news of cheque being cashed. No receipt notice either.
AD – CA processing Center STEM Extension Expiring 30th June.
Is this a common occurrence? Anyone else with the same scenario?
Did u try getting receipt number from your DSO?
My DSO would only provide me an updateor the CAP Gap i20 if i have a receipt number.
They give me a vague generic answer to check with my employer when asked.
Sorry to hear that. Just stay calm. You will get our receipts this week or next week.
Yes. Hope everyone gets what they deserve.
My SEVP updated on 04/20 but I git my receipt on 04/30.So stay positive. Your receipt is on the way 🙂
SEVP Portal finally got updated today to 09/30 at 14:24 EST, ADV Cap. Original OPT end date 07/31. Good luck to you all! Good news is on its way!
Congratz to you! Hopefully it will be my turn too. 🙁
Thank you! Your will come soon, don’t lose hope!!! Best of luck!
Hearty congratulations!!
Its my last chance, STEM OPT expiring on 30th July, non-AD
My “Relation to field” updated on 4/16
OPT end date changed from 7/30 to 9/30 today around 11:30 PST
Nothing from lawyer and no check cashed yet!
The updates are still in process, don’t loose hope! Good Luck to all 🙂
Congrats! Could you please tell, when did you created your SEVP account ?
2nd Timer, I created my profile on 4/18.
Good Luck!
But u said your profile updated on ‘ My “Relation to field” updated on 4/16’ ?
Yea, I created my login after that. I guess everyone’s accounts are already created doesn’t matter if you’ve logged in or not. When I logged in, “Relation to field” was update was there in history.
Checks cashed 5/1/2018
SEVP updated to 9/30 – Just now (5/3/2018)
STEM OPT expiring 6/25/2018
Yay!!
are you applying for stem? if yes please let me know what your i20 shows as stem opt start date mine is showing as sep 30 instead of jun 15
Congrats!
I’m waiting for the same update after the checks were cashed yesterday
@ArseneKnowsBest
Remember you. You get the SEVP update soon.
Hi
may I know what is the start date for you in your stem opt i20 was it june 25th or october 1st
May be this will help some of the folks following this forum. I was in a similar situation as some of you: was seeing some changes in the relation to field but did not have much else (STEM ending in Feb 2019). But got the email from the lawyer today morning about the receipt.
You could check if the employer identification number in the relation to field update is different from the original employer identification number in the STEM in the sevp portal. That would seem to indicate that something has changed.
When did it change for you on SEVP portal?
This is interesting.. So my STEM OPT is ending in Jan 2019.
I had SEVP portal updates to “Relation to Field” on April 20th, that simply added commas. Still no word from lawyer, no check cashed, no info from DSO.
On April 27th I noted that my job title was not fully entered and I corrected it.
Today (05/03) , I got an update on the SEVP portal source “SEVIS” with 4 rows.
1) Title – No Change
2) Employer Name – New section one has comma added.
3) Supervisor Phone Number Ext – No Change
4) Relation To Field – New section got edited ( removed a sentence )
Looking at all this, I guess updates to various fields except authorization end date might not indicate lottery selection.
Also, I had requested for new I-20 day before yesterday and my DSO replied back today saying that I-20 is generated. I’m guessing these updates are coming because of that.
Hi,
Does this update mean anything positive ?
No idea until I get the receipt or check cashed. My guess is H1B lottery selection and “Relation to field” updates are not at all related.
Also, EIN is for federal tax purposes. It did not change for me.
I meant the employer # used by SEVIS / SEVP for various records, it possibly does not have any meaning outside SEVIS/SEVP.
If you see your EMPLOYMENT tab, everything begins with a number, that is the employer #. So note this number in the entry for STEM extension. Also in the HISTORY tab , the entry for ‘relation to’ field change also has a number (something like Relation To Field (53XXXXX)). My theory is the two numbers become different when there is a SEVIS record update . This is true even when you are with the same employer. I see different numbers for my OPT, STEM and relation to field update . This is just my theory and does not have to be correct.
Yeah, I can actually see that they are different. But i suppose it was like that from the beginning.
The number directly under employment isn’t employer number, that’s why they are not the same. You should click the button under the employment , where employer # is inside.
Hi my sevis portal is updated and my university issued receipt number on the i20 I requested for stem opt extension.
But I have a issue with applying for stem opt please read my below e-mail which I sent to my attorney
(still awaiting for reply) and let me know if anyone has any suggestions or if anyone are in similar situation
My school changed my opt end date as sep 30 2018 instead of June 15 2018 as the authorization end date is changed in sevis.
However as they requested stem opt start date as October 1st 2018 on i20 I am not sure if I can apply for stem opt extension now as it is more than 90 days from the start date.
Also if I do not apply the stem opt now my actual expiry date on EAD card will be passed and I am not sure if I can apply with this i20 after June 15 2018.
I am confused at this point and I am not sure if I can apply for the stem opt with this i20.
As you mentioned earlier H1B processing is being difficult in case if it’s revoked or denied the cap gap which is till September 30th will be terminated automatically and I won’t be having any status between July and October as my school requested the stem opt start date from October 1st 2018
Please advise me on how to proceed with applying for stem opt as this seems quite complicated and my actual end date for opt is approaching.
Should I ask my school to change the start date to June 15th instead ? (Is this i20 any different from stem opt i20 can the school actually change my opt end date to sep 30 instead of the date which reflects on my EAD card)
Or
If I can apply with this i20 when should I be applying ( before June 18th or September 30th)?
Stem extension should be applied before the end date on your original EAD card. You cannot apply for STEM extension after the end date on the EAD card. Check with your DSO on how you can resolve this issue.
Source : https://isso.uncc.edu/sites/isso.uncc.edu/files/media/Handout_OPTSTEM_FAQs.pdf
31. Once I receive my new I-20 for STEM extension, it indicates Oct. 1st as the start date rather than the day
after the end of my EAD for 12-months OPT. Is this an error?
This is a known issue and unfortunately not something that the ISSO has control over. Because SEVP has
received your H1B request, your SEVIS record shows change of status pending and has the cap gap memo at the
bottom. The start date automatically defaults to October 1 because of the H1B fiscal year. There is nothing our
office can do to change this however we automatically issue a letter for you to use with your new I-20 in your
STEM OPT application requesting USCIS to use the actual dates from the EAD.
If you have an immigration attorney, you can speak with him/her regarding this if you’d like but in the meantime
we encourage you to submit the STEM extension application if you are still unsure whether or not your H1B will
be approved.
Hello,
I asked many people regarding this thank you so much for letting me know that its a known issue I will apply for it before june my actual opt end date even if i20 shows start date as october ist 2018.
My only question is it will not affect the H1B approval right because in case if both are approved the opt extension should not supersede H1B extension.
Opt end date – 20 sep 2018
SEVP updated to 30 sep 2018 on 04/20
Have not heard anything from employer regarding receipt. Its second week after the update, Is this something to worry about?
I am in the same boat as you. Nothing from my lawyer.