Stem OPT Extension

The STEM OPT extension is a valuable opportunity for international students in the United States who have completed degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) fields. For students on an F-1 visa who are already participating in Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), this extension offers an additional 24 months of work authorization. 

STEM OPT program allows F-1 visa students who have completed a degree in an approved STEM field to extend their Post-Completion OPT work authorization by 24 months. This extension gives eligible students 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after completing their degree, providing extended work opportunities and a potential pathway to long-term employment.

The program is part of the U.S. government’s effort to retain highly skilled professionals in STEM fields, which are critical to the nation’s innovation and competitiveness in the global economy.

 

Eligibility for STEM OPT Extension

To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. STEM Degree: The student must have earned a degree in a field included on the Department of Homeland Security’s STEM Designated Degree Program List. This list includes fields such as:
    • Engineering
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
    • Computer Science
    • Mathematics
    • Physical Sciences
    • Information Technology
  1. Employment with an E-Verified Employer: The student must be employed or have a job offer from an employer that participates in the E-Verify program, an online system that allows employers to confirm the employment eligibility of their employees.

  2. Current OPT Status: The student must be in a valid Post-Completion OPT period. STEM OPT must be applied for before the regular OPT expires.
  3. Employment: The employment must be at least 20 hours per week and directly related to the student’s field of study.
  4. Form I-983 Training Plan: The student and employer must complete and submit Form I-983, which outlines the training plan, learning objectives, and the student’s role within the company.

 

How to Apply for STEM OPT Extension

The application process for the STEM OPT extension involves several steps:

  1. Submit Form I-983: The student must submit Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. This document is completed jointly by the student and their employer, outlining the training objectives and how the employer will provide a structured learning environment. The completed form must be submitted to the student’s Designated School Official (DSO) for approval.

  2. Request STEM OPT Recommendation: After submitting Form I-983, the student must request a recommendation for the STEM OPT extension from their DSO. The DSO will then update the student’s Form I-20 to include the STEM OPT recommendation.
  3. Complete Form I-765: The student must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application can be filed online or by mail, and the filing fee must be paid.
  4. Wait for Approval: Once the application is filed, students can continue working on their Post-Completion OPT for up to 180 days while waiting for approval. The average processing time for STEM OPT applications is typically 3-5 months.
    • The filing fee for paper filing is $520.
    • The filing fee for online filing is $470.
  5. Receive Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Upon approval, USCIS will issue a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD), granting the student an additional 24 months of work authorization under the STEM OPT extension.

 

It’s important to closely follow the guidelines provided by your university, as they will offer detailed instructions on each step of the process. Adhere to all deadlines and requirements to ensure a smooth application process.

 

Key Responsibilities for Students and Employers

Both the student and employer must follow certain guidelines during the STEM OPT extension period:

Student Responsibilities:

  • Reporting Requirements: Students must report their employment status, any changes in address, and employer details to their DSO every six months.
  • Self-Evaluations: Students must complete two self-evaluations using Form I-983 during the STEM OPT period. The first evaluation is due at the 12-month mark, and the second is due at the end of the extension.
  • Change of Employment: If a student changes employers during the STEM OPT period, the new employer must be E-Verified, and a new Form I-983 must be submitted. 

Employer Responsibilities:

  • E-Verify Enrollment: The employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program and comply with its regulations.
  • Training and Supervision: The employer must adhere to the training plan outlined in Form I-983 and provide proper supervision and mentoring to the student.
  • Compliance with Reporting: Employers must report to the DSO if there are significant changes to the student’s employment, such as termination or material changes to the training plan.

Travel During STEM OPT Extension

Travel during the STEM OPT extension period is possible but can be complicated. Students must carry the following documents when re-entering the U.S.:

  • A valid F-1 visa.
  • A valid EAD card.
  • A job offer letter or employment verification letter from their current employer.
  • A valid passport and Form I-20 signed by the DSO within the last six months.

While travel is generally allowed, students should ensure all documents are up-to-date and valid to avoid issues with re-entry.

  

Common Challenges

While the STEM OPT extension provides numerous advantages, students, and employers must be mindful of the challenges involved:

  • Lengthy Processing Times: The STEM OPT extension process can take several months, so applying well in advance is crucial.
  • E-Verify Requirement: Not all employers participate in E-Verify, which limits student employment opportunities. Students should confirm the employer’s participation in E-Verify before accepting a job offer.
  • Strict Reporting Requirements: Students must meet strict reporting obligations and complete timely evaluations to avoid jeopardizing their status.

 

Conclusion

The STEM OPT extension provides international students a valuable opportunity to gain additional work experience in the U.S. after graduation. By extending the work authorization period by 24 months, the program helps STEM graduates strengthen their careers and build connections in the U.S. workforce while providing employers access to highly skilled talent. However, students and employers must follow the requirements and guidelines to maintain lawful status throughout the OPT period.

 It is very important you consult with an Immigration Attorney before filing your OPT Extension. For help with the STEM OPT extension process or any other immigration-related matters, contact our team of immigration experts at the Law Office of Dharmik Barot. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.