Optional Practical Training STEM Extension
F-1 students who are currently authorized for OPT employment based on completion of a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) field, as defined by DHS, may be eligible for a 24-month extension of OPT.
In order to be eligible for this extension, students applying for this benefit must:
- Already be on valid OPT based on a STEM-eligible degree
- Have had fewer than 90 days of unemployment while on OPT
- Be employed by, or have a job offer from, an employer who is registered in the E-Verify employment verification system
There is a lifetime limit of two periods of 24-month STEM OPT. A STEM degree obtained at a U.S. university prior to your current degree may be the basis for a STEM extension under certain circumstances.
Applying for STEM Extension
When to apply
Submit the STEM OPT application to USCIS within 90 days of your initial OPT expiration date. The STEM extension begins the day after the expiration of the previous OPT EAD and ends 24 months later.
Application Process
- Read the information about STEM OPT.
- Attend a STEM Workshop (optional)
- Complete a Training Plan I-983
- Request your STEM I-20 by completing the “Request for 24 Month Extension of OPT”
- Prepare the USCIS I-765 application materials (below)
- If desired, set an appointment with OISS to file your OPT application, or wait for the new I-20 to file on your own.
- Once you have all the required documents, file with OISS or on your own.
Notes:
- You MUST submit within 90 days of your EAD end date. 91 days before the date = auto-denial. 1 day after the EAD end date = auto denial.
- You are applying for (C)(3)(c) - STEM Extension.
- While the STEM OPT I-765 is pending with USCIS, you may continue to work for up to 180 days IF the application is submitted before the EAD card expires.
- Report employment and any changes in employment or address to SEVIS
- Via ICE: SEVP Portal.
- Via ISS: Update your employment information with the Update Information Form
STEM OPT Materials
Please check the USCIS website for updates.
-
- Application Fee: $470
- Form I-765
- a 2x2, passport-style photograph (200px x 200px)
- Soft copy of your I-94.
- Soft copy of passport, biographical info page.
- Soft copy of past EAD (s)
- Soft copy of new OPT STEM extension I-20 from APSU (keep the original I-20)
- Soft copy of Visa
- Evidence that your degree meets the STEM degree/major requirements.
- Soft copy of your diploma
- SEVP Accreditation document
- SACSCOC Accreditation document
- MSc - CSQM Students: Department Letter of Program
Tips and Helpful Links
Helpful Links
Apply for your Social Security Number While Applying for Your Work Permit
USCIS Change of Address (Make sure your documents are sent to your current address)