What Is an RFE (Request for Evidence) from USCIS?
Quick Answer
An RFE (Request for Evidence) is a written notice from USCIS asking an applicant to submit additional documentation or information needed to adjudicate their case. For OPT applicants, an RFE typically requests missing documents, clarification on eligibility, or corrected information, and must be responded to within 87 days to avoid denial.
Key Takeaway
If you receive an RFE, do not panic—carefully read every item requested, gather all required evidence, and submit a complete, well-organized response well before the 87-day deadline to maximize your chances of approval.
What an RFE Is and Why USCIS Issues One
A Request for Evidence (RFE) is an official notice issued by USCIS when an adjudicating officer determines that the evidence submitted with an application or petition is insufficient to make a decision. Rather than denying the case outright, the officer gives the applicant an opportunity to provide the missing or additional evidence needed to establish eligibility for the requested benefit.
For F-1 students applying for OPT through Form I-765, common reasons for receiving an RFE include missing copies of previous I-20 forms, passport photos that do not meet USCIS specifications, a mismatch between the I-765 and the I-20 (such as different program end dates or eligibility categories), missing proof of student status, or a SEVIS record that appears inactive or inconsistent with the application.
An RFE is not a denial. It is an opportunity to supplement your application with the information USCIS needs. However, receiving an RFE does add time to the overall processing timeline, often extending it by several weeks to months depending on how quickly you respond and how long USCIS takes to re-adjudicate after receiving your response.
How to Respond to an RFE
When you receive an RFE, the first step is to carefully read the entire notice. The RFE letter will list each specific piece of evidence or information that USCIS is requesting. It will also include a deadline for your response—typically 87 days from the date the RFE was issued. It is essential to respond before this deadline because failure to respond results in USCIS adjudicating the case based on the existing record, which often leads to denial.
Your response should address every item listed in the RFE, even if you believe some requests are unnecessary. Organize your response with a cover letter that references your receipt number, lists each RFE item, and explains how the enclosed evidence addresses each request. Include a copy of the original RFE notice with your response so the officer can easily match your submission to the pending case.
Submit your RFE response to the address specified in the RFE notice—this is usually a specific USCIS lockbox or service center address that may differ from where you originally filed. Use a trackable mailing method (such as USPS Certified Mail, FedEx, or UPS) and keep copies of everything you send. Consider also contacting your DSO, as they may be able to provide supporting documentation or verify SEVIS information.
- Read the entire RFE notice carefully and identify every requested item
- Respond to every item listed, not just some
- Include a cover letter referencing your receipt number
- Submit before the 87-day deadline (aim for well before)
- Use a trackable mailing method and keep copies of everything
- Contact your DSO for supporting documentation if needed
The 87-day deadline is counted from the date on the RFE notice, not from the date you receive it. Mail delays can reduce your effective response time, so act quickly.
Common RFE Scenarios for OPT Applicants
One of the most frequent RFE scenarios for OPT applicants involves discrepancies between the Form I-765 and the Form I-20. For example, if the program end date on the I-765 does not match the I-20, USCIS will request clarification. This can happen when the DSO issues a program extension after the I-765 was filed, or when the student entered incorrect dates on the application.
Another common scenario is a request for proof of student status, such as transcripts showing enrollment or a letter from the registrar confirming program completion. USCIS may also request additional identity documents if the submitted passport copies were unclear or if the applicant's name differs across documents (such as a maiden name versus married name).
For STEM OPT extension applicants, RFEs may request proof that the employer is enrolled in E-Verify, a copy of the Form I-983 Training Plan, or verification that the applicant's degree qualifies as a STEM-designated field. Having these documents prepared and verified before filing can help avoid an RFE altogether.
What Happens After You Respond to an RFE
After USCIS receives your RFE response, the case returns to an officer for review. The officer will evaluate the newly submitted evidence along with the original application to determine whether eligibility requirements are met. If the response fully addresses all requested items, the case will typically be approved. If the response is incomplete or the evidence is still insufficient, USCIS may issue another RFE, issue a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), or deny the application.
The time between submitting an RFE response and receiving a decision varies. Some applicants receive a decision within a few weeks, while others wait several months. You can track the progress of your case using your receipt number on the USCIS Case Status Online tool. If your case status changes to 'Response to RFE Was Received,' it confirms that USCIS has received your submission.
If your case is ultimately denied after an RFE response, the denial notice will explain the reasons. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a motion to reopen or reconsider, or you may be able to submit a new application. Consult with your DSO and an immigration attorney to evaluate your options.