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DHS Proposed OPT Fee

Published by ISGSS: October 8, 2026

We would like to share an important update regarding a proposed change to OPT fees.

On October 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule that would introduce significant fees for students applying for Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, and STEM OPT. At this time, the rule is in a proposal stage and is not in effect. Typically proposed new rules take months, if not longer, before they take effect or are canceled all together.

There is no change to the OPT application process at this time. Students who are eligible for OPT should continue to follow the normal application process and may apply as usual.

We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

For additional information, you may review:

If you have questions about your individual OPT timeline or application, please contact our office.

UPDATE: USCIS Continues Accepting Prior Editions of Forms I-765 and I-539

Published by ISGSS: September 18, 2026

USCIS previously announced that new versions of Forms I-765 and I-539 would be required starting September 15, 2026. However, due to a federal court order, USCIS is currently continuing to accept the previous versions of these forms.

What You Need to Know
USCIS is currently accepting only the older editions of these forms:

• Form I-765: Edition dated 08/21/25
• Form I-539: Edition dated 08/28/24

USCIS is not accepting the 09/15/26 editions of Forms I-765 and I-539 at this time.

Important Instructions for Applicants
If you are preparing to submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) or Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status), whether online or by mail:

• Use the 08/21/25 edition of Form I-765.
• Use the 08/28/24 edition of Form I-539.
• Do not submit the 09/15/26 edition of either form. USCIS will not accept these editions at this time.
• Before submitting your application, always check the official USCIS Forms page to confirm which form edition USCIS currently accepts.

If you have questions or concerns about your application, please contact the ISGSS office for assistance. 

Additional information/ resources:

Duration of Status (D/S) Final Rule Updates

Last update: September 15, 2026

Click here to view the most recent D/S Final Rule implementation and litigation updates.

Lewis University Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Authorization Update

Published: September 9, 2026

Recently, DHS/SEVP announced increased scrutiny of CPT authorizations (see Aug 2026 broadcast messages linked below). Due to the increased scrutiny and liability related to CPT authorizations, the Office of International Affairs is currently reviewing all of its CPT policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the stricter interpretations of these policies. This thorough review is necessary to protect all students, DSOs, and °µÍøTV. Please note that all CPT applications submitted to the ISGSS office will face longer review times, and there may be an increase in denied or paused applications at this time. 

As part of this compliance review, we will also be reviewing CPT applications that have been recently authorized this Fall2026 to ensure consistency with applicable requirements. If questions or concerns arise regarding a previous CPT authorization, we will communicate directly with the student and provide guidance on any appropriate next steps.

Our goal is to ensure that CPT authorizations are handled responsibly, consistently, and in accordance with current federal guidance while supporting our students throughout the process. 

Please contact ISGSS@lewisu.edu with any questions.

References: