STEM degrees you obtain in the future: If you enroll in a new academic program in the future and earn another qualifying STEM degree at a higher educational level, you may be eligible for one additional 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Can I extend my STEM OPT?

STEM degrees you obtain in the future: If you enroll in a new academic program in the future and earn another qualifying STEM degree at a higher educational level, you may be eligible for one additional 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Who qualifies for OPT STEM extension?

To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, an F-1 student must hold a bachelor’s degree or a higher degree in an eligible STEM field from an SEVP-certified school that is accredited (by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education) at the time the student submits their STEM OPT extension application …

How long can I stay in US after STEM OPT expires?

When you have completed your STEM OPT, you are permitted to remain in the United States for up to sixty calendar days from the end date of your STEM OPT period in order to prepare for departure. You are not permitted to continue employment during this period (unless authorized under the H-1 cap-gap benefit; see below).

How late can you apply for STEM OPT extension?

USCIS must receive your OPT STEM Extension application before the expiration date of your post-completion EAD and within 60 days of the OPT STEM recommendation. You can apply up to 90 days before your post-completion EAD expiration date.

How long can you stay after STEM OPT expires?

60 days
OPT participants may remain in the United States for up to 60 days after their work authorization expires. However, F-1 students are not eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension once they enter this 60 day grace period.

When should I request STEM OPT extension?

Why is STEM OPT denied?

Below are some of the most common reasons applications have been denied: Didn’t mail the application within 30 days of getting the OPT recommendation. Applied more than 90 days before end date of the program of study. Didn’t apply before the 60th day after completion of the program of study.

Can I be self employed on STEM OPT 24 month extension?

Unlike the 12 month OPT, volunteer/unpaid work or self-employment is not permitted under the 24 month STEM OPT Extension regulation.

What happens when your STEM OPT expires?

If your STEM OPT is not approved within 180 days of your OPT expiration date, you must stop working. You will need to update your I-9 with your employer once your OPT expires and you are on STEM OPT. If you have received your I-797 receipt, you should use this to update your I-9 with your employer.

How long is OPT STEM extension?

a 24-month
The STEM OPT extension is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student’s program of study in an approved STEM field. On May 10, 2016, this extension effectively replaced the previous 17-month STEM OPT extension.

What is a STEM OPT extension?

Students who majored in an eligible Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) field may qualify for a one-time, 24-Month Extension of post-completion optional practical training (OPT). A student may request a first STEM OPT extension if:

How do I apply for a STEM OPT extension in SEVIS?

Students must submit a completed Form I-983 Training Plan for STEM OPT Students to the DSO before the DSO can recommend the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS. Students must submit a new Form I-983 for every new employment/training experience they accept during their STEM OPT extension.

Where can I find CIP codes for the STEM OPT extension?

For more information about CIP codes and how certain degrees may qualify for the STEM OPT extension, visit the Eligible CIP Codes for the STEM OPT Extension page. You can also download a copy of the STEM Designated Degree Program List on ICE.gov .

What makes a student eligible for STEM OPT?

Student’s primary or secondary major was a STEM-eligible field, or the student completed a previous primary or secondary major in a currently STEM-eligible field. Student has not already had a STEM OPT extension of any duration based on the qualifying STEM degree. Qualifying STEM degree was at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level.