NOID overturned
Engaged us just before the deadline
STEM OPT Extension
Background
The applicant filed for a STEM OPT extension and received a NOID because of an arrest record. With a demanding job, the applicant left the matter almost entirely to the firm.
Challenges
- The applicant engaged us close to the response deadline, leaving very little preparation time.
- There were few chances to communicate with the applicant, so the team had to drive the document work on its own.
Strategy
- Worked through the materials overnight after engagement and completed the response with limited back-and-forth.
- Filed a complete response before the deadline.
Case Timeline
| Date | Progress |
|---|---|
| 02/10/2026 | Engaged the firm close to the deadline |
| 02/22/2026 | NOID response filed |
| 04/05/2026 | STEM OPT extension approved |
Outcome
STEM OPT extension approved (response filed 02/22/2026 · approved 04/05/2026).
Closing Note
However busy work gets, leave room for status issues. The earlier you engage counsel, the more time there is to build a solid response.