USCIS has recently issued directives in conjunction with OPT filing flexibilities. 

Applicants who timely filed Form I-765 for OPT and STEM OPT and whose applications were later rejected, USCIS will accept a refiled Form I-765 as filed on the original filing date if:

• The original, timely filed application was received on or after Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 31, 2021, inclusive; and
• USCIS subsequently rejected it.

Please note, refiled applications must be received by Nov. 30, 3021, for USCIS to treat the application as though filed on the original received date.

Please visit USCIS website for further details or contact an OISS advisor for further information.