STEM OPT Extension: Who Qualifies and How to Apply

If you finish a degree in a science, technology, engineering, or math field, you may be able to add two more years to your work authorisation in the United States. This is the STEM OPT extension, and it is one of the biggest advantages of studying a STEM subject on an F-1 visa.

What it is

Standard post-completion OPT gives F-1 graduates up to 12 months of work in their field. The STEM extension adds another 24 months on top, for a total of three years, if your degree is on the official STEM designated degree list.

Who qualifies

• A STEM degree that appears on the DHS STEM designated degree program list.
• An E-Verify employer. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
• A training plan. You and your employer complete Form I-983, which sets out your learning objectives and supervision.
• Current OPT. You apply while you are still on your initial post-completion OPT.

When and how to apply

Apply to USCIS before your current OPT expires, after your DSO updates your SEVIS record and issues a new I-20 recommending the extension. You file Form I-765 for a new Employment Authorization Document. Start early, since processing takes time, and you can keep working for up to 180 days while a timely application is pending.

New to OPT? Start with CPT vs OPT explained and the OPT timeline guide.