Optional Practical Training STEM Extension
Overview
F-1 students currently authorized for OPT based on a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field may be eligible for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the STEM extension, you must:
- Already be on valid OPT based on a STEM-eligible degree
- Have 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 an APSU OPT Workshop (if offered, optional).
- Complete a Training Plan I-983
- Request your STEM Extension OPT recommendation from your DSO by completing the APSU “Request for 24 Month Extension of OPT” form. You will need your DSO's recommendation based upon this form to file your extension with USCIS.
- Prepare the USCIS I-765 application materials (below).
- Once you have all the required documents (including the new I-20), file on your own.
Notes:
- DSO needs supervisor name and contact details, EIN, and job description and title to create your updated I-20.
- 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.
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- Application Fee: $470
- Form I-765
- 2 (two) 2x2, passport-style pictures (200px x 200px)
- Soft copy of your I-94.
- Soft copy of passport, biographical info page.
- Soft copy of any 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.
Tips and Helpful Links
Helpful Links
USCIS Change of Address (Make sure your documents are sent to your current address)