OPT- STEM Extension

A 24-month student immigration visa extension of OPT for students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees.

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Qualifications

• Following completion of OPT, those who have studied in certain STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) are eligible to apply for an additional 24 months of OPT.

• Can only apply within 90 days prior to end date of OPT. Cannot apply within the 60-day post OPT grace period.
• Must include an application for new EAD from USCIS. Can continue working for up to 180 days past OPT end date while waiting for new STEM OPT EAD to be issued.
• Must submit Form I-983 Training Plan completed by prospective employer.
• Employer’s requirements:

• Must be enrolled in USCIS’s E-Verify program;
• Must have sufficient resources to train the student;
• Must not replace a U.S. worker with the student;
• Must offer commensurate working conditions and pay as other U.S. workers in similar roles;
• of Homeland Security can conduct unannounced site visits.

• Student must report to the school’s Designated Student Officer (DSO) every six months, along with a self-evaluation within the first 12 months of STEM OPT and a final evaluation at the end of STEM OPT.