Eligible F-1 students with STEM degrees who finish their program of study and participate in an initial period of regular post-completion OPT have the option to apply for a STEM OPT extension.

The STEM OPT Extension is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student’s program of study in an approved STEM field.

Eligibility for the STEM OPT Extension

To qualify for the 24-month extension, you must:

  1. Have been granted OPT and currently be in a valid period of post-completion OPT;
  2. Have earned a bachelor’s or higher degree in an eligible STEM field from an accredited SEVP-certified school at the time you submit your STEM OPT extension application with USCIS;
  3. Work for an E-Verify employer in a qualifying paid job, for at least 20 hours per week, and meeting all STEM OPT Employer Requirements and Responsibilities;
  4. Have received an updated I-20 from the DSO with the STEM OPT Extension annotated on their Form I-20, following the submission of the completed I-983 Training Plan for STEM OPT Students and the STEM OPT extension recommended into the student’s SEVIS record;
  5. Submit the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, in accordance with all deadlines and accompanied by the required fee and the supporting documentation as described in the form instructions.

Steps to Apply for STEM OPT

To apply for a STEM OPT Extension, file Form I-765 with USCIS within 60 days of the STEM OPT-endorsed I-20 signature from your DSO and before your current OPT expires. Late or incomplete applications will be denied. Retain copies of all documents. If filed on time, your employment authorization is automatically extended for up to 180 days while the application is pending, ending upon USCIS adjudication.

Maintaining Status on STEM OPT

The rules and student reporting responsibilities during the 24-month STEM extension are different from those throughout post-completion OPT. To maintain your F-1 status while on STEM OPT, it is crucial that you ensure your information is current. Below are the key requirements for maintaining your status.

  • You are limited to a total of 150 days without employment.
  • You must work at least 20 hours per week for an E-Verified employer in a paid position directly related to your STEM eligible field.
  • Keep proof of employment from all employers.
  • Report changes to your legal name, address, and/or employer to your DSO within 10 days of the change and every 6 months.

How to Report STEM OPT Requirements

OPT Application Help

We understand you may have questions about applying for OPT. For assistance and to have your questions answered, please see the options available.
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