Certain F-1 students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). The application for the 24-monthSTEMextension is very similar to the initial 12 months of OPT application, but with some additional reporting requirements and additionaldocumentsneeded.
Requirements for STEM OPT
- Have been granted OPT and currently be in a valid periodof post-completion OPT
- Have earned a bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚, or doctoral degree that is considered STEM
- Company must be e-verified at the time student applies.
- Must be employed more than 20 hours per week per employer.
- You must apply for work authorization by electronically filing a Form I-765 and pay filing fee.
When to Apply for STEM OPT
USCIS must receive your completedSTEMapplication prior to the initial EAD expiration, not more than 90 days before the initial EAD expiration, and within 60 days of ISSA endorsing your I-20 for theSTEMextension.
How to Apply for STEM OPT
Step 1: Check to see if company is e-verified.
- Employer must be currently enrolled in
- Cannot proceed with application until employer is on E-Verify website.
Step 2: Prepare the following documents:
- Copy of the completed and signed . The I-983 is not sent to USCIS as part of the formal application packet, but it could be requested by USCIS during the adjudication process. (See “I-983STEM” link for tips on completing the form.)
- Application filing fee of $470 (credit card for when application is filed online).
- Digital Passport Photo. 2×2 inches (51 x 51 mm) color photo that meets . Want to scan an existing photo? Must be a photo taken within the last 30 days and it must not have been used in any other applications. Also, picture must be scanned at a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (12 pixels per mm). To check if an image is eligible, use the photo tool found here: or. If you don鈥檛 know where to go, an option is: Claremont Photo, 241 Harvard Ave., Claremont, 91711. An iOS application for iPhones that students have used with success is
- Electronic copy the front and back of any current and previous Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and EAD card.
- Electronic copy of diploma or copy of transcript showing all degree coursework was completed.
- Electronic copy ofI-94.
Step 3: Submit the Pre-OPT Review Form, where you will upload all of your documents.
Step 4: ISSA will review your documents and issue you an OPT STEM Extension Requested I-20.
- OPT STEM Extension I-20 will be included in the application filed online.
Step 5: Final review of all documents by ISSA and assist you in filing OPT STEM Extension online.