The fine structure splitting (FSS) of exciton emission from single InAs/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) are investigated. The excitonic FSS is attributed to the QD shape asymmetry reduction. Based on the formulism of the Bir-Pikus Hamiltonian, the interplay between the FSS and stress are discussed. We apply the stress to the QD by piezoelectric materials. In the experiment, the excitonic energy level does change with the external stress, confirming the external stress can indeed affect the shape of quantum dots. The FSS also can be changed by the external stress. Experimental data are consistent with the theoretical anticipation. Using the way of applying stresses, the single quantum dot excitonic states are possible to become degenerate states.