Overview

The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension allows eligible F-1 students to extend their post-completion OPT by 24 months. This extension provides STEM degree holders with additional time to gain practical experience in the United States.

Key Benefits

Extended Work Authorization: Up to 24 additional months of employment authorization
Multiple Applications: Can apply for extension twice in lifetime under certain conditions
Career Development: Additional time to gain specialized experience in STEM fields
Transition Opportunity: More time to pursue employer sponsorship for H-1B or other visas
Academic Integration: Structured training through Form I-983 mentorship program

Eligibility Requirements

Student Requirements

Currently in valid F-1 status or in authorized grace period
Hold bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree from STEM-designated program
Have completed initial 12-month OPT period or currently authorized for post-completion OPT
Have not previously used 24 months of STEM OPT extension (unless earned higher degree)
Apply before current OPT authorization expires

STEM Degree Requirements

Degree must be from program listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Common eligible fields include:

Computer Science and Information Technology
Engineering (all fields)
Mathematics and Statistics
Physical Sciences
Life Sciences and Biotechnology
Medical and Health Sciences
Agricultural and Food Sciences

Employer Requirements

E-Verify Enrollment: Must be enrolled in E-Verify program
Good Standing: Must remain in good standing with E-Verify throughout extension
Training Plan: Must provide formal training program with learning objectives
Supervision: Must assign qualified supervisor or mentor
Compensation: Must pay commensurate wages for similar positions

Application Process

Required Documents

Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization Document
Form I-983: Training Plan for STEM OPT Students
Copy of STEM degree: Official transcript or diploma
Copy of current EAD: Front and back
Copy of I-94: Arrival/departure record
Copy of F-1 visa: If available
Passport photos: Two passport-style photos
Filing fee: $410 (as of 2025)

Form I-983 Training Plan

The Training Plan is a critical component that must demonstrate how the employment will provide practical experience in the STEM field. Key elements include:

Learning Objectives: Specific, measurable goals related to STEM field
Training Timeline: Structured plan with milestones and assessments
Supervisor Information: Qualified mentor with relevant experience
Evaluation Methods: Regular review and feedback mechanisms
Skills Development: How position enhances STEM knowledge and skills

Timeline and Deadlines

Critical Filing Requirements

DSO Recommendation: Apply within 60 days after your DSO enters the recommendation for OPT into your SEVIS record
Current EAD Expiration: Apply up to 90 days before your current OPT employment authorization expires
Processing Time: Typically 90-120 days (check current times)
Automatic Extension: 180-day extension while application is pending (if filed timely)

E-Verify Requirements

Employer Obligations

Enroll in E-Verify before student begins STEM OPT extension
Verify employment eligibility within 3 business days of hire
Maintain E-Verify enrollment throughout extension period
Report to DHS if student is terminated or employment ends early
Comply with all E-Verify requirements and maintain good standing

Student Responsibilities

Ensure employer is enrolled in E-Verify before starting extension
Report changes in employment or training plan to DSO within 10 days
Maintain valid F-1 status throughout extension period
Complete Form I-983 evaluations with supervisor
Keep records of training activities and skill development

Multiple Extensions

Students may be eligible for multiple STEM OPT extensions under these conditions:

Higher Degree: Earned higher qualifying STEM degree at different level
24-Month Limit: Have not used full 24 months of STEM OPT extension
Degree Level: Must be bachelor's to master's, or master's to doctoral progression
Program Change: Different STEM designated degree program (CIP code)

Recent Policy Updates (2025)

Enhanced Vetting Procedures (Effective August 19, 2025)

USCIS now conducts expanded social media screening for all immigration applications, including STEM OPT:

Social Media Review: Officers review online activity for antisemitic and anti-American content
Retroactive Application: Policy applies to pending applications filed before August 19, 2025
Negative Factors: Content promoting antisemitism or anti-American views may result in denial
Historical Content: Posts from years ago can still impact decisions
Immigration History Review: Enhanced review of compliance with U.S. laws
Extended Processing: Additional screening may increase processing times

Important: STEM OPT Automatic Extension Period

While other EAD categories now receive 540-day automatic extensions (effective January 13, 2025):

STEM OPT Exception: F-1 students applying for STEM OPT extensions still receive only 180-day automatic extensions
No Change: The 540-day extension does NOT apply to OPT or STEM OPT applications
Timing Critical: File timely to ensure 180-day extension eligibility

Expanded STEM List

Recent additions include:

Data Science and Analytics programs
Cybersecurity specializations
Renewable Energy Engineering
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Common Challenges and Solutions

Finding E-Verify Employers

Problem: Not all employers are enrolled in E-Verify
Solution: Use E-Verify employer search tool, focus on large corporations
Tip: Many federal contractors and large companies are already enrolled

Training Plan Development

Problem: Employers unfamiliar with Form I-983 requirements
Solution: Provide sample training plans and USCIS guidance
Tip: Work closely with DSO and career services office

Timing Issues

Problem: Processing delays causing gap in authorization
Solution: File early and maintain 180-day automatic extension eligibility
Tip: Track application status and respond promptly to RFEs

After STEM OPT Extension

Transition Options

H-1B Specialty Occupation: Most common transition path
O-1 Extraordinary Ability: For highly skilled individuals
TN Status: For Canadian and Mexican nationals
Employer-sponsored Green Card: Permanent residence through employer
Further Education: Return to student status for advanced degree

Grace Period

After STEM OPT extension expires, students have a 60-day grace period to:

Prepare for departure from the United States
Apply for change of status to another nonimmigrant category
Transfer to another SEVP-approved school

Resources and Support

Official Resources

Getting Help

International Student Office: Primary source for guidance and support
Designated School Official (DSO): Must review and recommend application
Immigration Attorney: For complex cases or legal issues
Career Services: Help with employer outreach and job search

Important Note

This guide provides general information about STEM OPT extensions. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements and procedures with USCIS, your DSO, or a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions about your immigration status.