STEM OPT Extension: How to Apply

Contents:

  • Eligibility
  • When to Apply
  • Employment Requirements During the 24-month STEM Extension
  • Step-by-Step How to Apply
  • Employer Noncompliance
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Step-by-Step Walk-through Completing the I-983 Training Plan
  • Step-by-Step Walk-through Form I-765

The STEM OPT extension allows some students with science, technology, engineering, or math degrees to apply to extend their post-completion OPT authorization. Students with STEM degrees and currently in their 12-month OPT period should review the eligibility requirements, application timeline, and instructions below.

Eligibility

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

  • Be in F-1 status
  • Be currently working in a period of post-completion OPT
  • Have a bachelor's degree or higher degree in an eligible STEM field (https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/eligible-cip-codes-for-the-stem-opt-extension)
  • You may be eligible to use a prior STEM degree earned in the U.S. for this requirement; to use a prior STEM degree, you must:
  • ✓ Have received your most recent degree (which does not need to be STEM-related) from a currently accredited Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school in the U.S.
  • ✓ Have received your prior, qualifying STEM degree in the U.S. within 10 years of applying for the STEM OPT extension.
  • ✓ The qualifying STEM degree must be on the Department of Homeland Security's STEM Designated Degree Program list