u/Curious_Syllabub_923

I filed my STEM OPT extension on 01/08/2026. USCIS scheduled my biometrics appointment for 04/10/2026, and I attended it as required.

After that, my case status changed to "Case Is Still Being Processed By USCIS" and it has remained unchanged since then. My initial OPT EAD expired on 01/23/2026, and my automatic 180-day STEM OPT extension is set to expire on 07/22/2026 if my application remains pending.

I have not upgraded to premium processing yet.

For those who recently received STEM OPT approvals:

• How long did it take after biometrics to get a decision?
• Is anyone else still waiting with the same status?
• At this point, would you recommend paying for premium processing, or should I continue waiting?

Thanks in advance for any advice or shared experiences.