STEM OPT Extension: Complete 2026 Guide

What Is the STEM OPT Extension?

The STEM OPT extension gives F-1 students with qualifying degrees an additional 24 months of work authorization in the United States. Combined with the initial 12-month OPT period, eligible students can work for up to 36 months after graduation.

This extension is available only to students who earned degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Your employer must also participate in the E-Verify program and agree to specific training requirements.

Eligibility Requirements for STEM OPT

You must meet all of the following criteria to qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension:

• Currently on valid post-completion OPT based on a STEM degree
• Degree is from a SEVP-certified institution and appears on the STEM Designated Degree Program List
• Employed by an employer enrolled in E-Verify
• Working at least 20 hours per week in a position directly related to your STEM degree
• Completed and signed Form I-983 (Training Plan) with your employer
• Maintained F-1 status and did not violate OPT unemployment limits

Students who previously received a STEM OPT extension based on one qualifying degree can receive a second extension if they earn another qualifying STEM degree at a higher level.

STEM Degree Verification

Check the Department of Homeland Security's STEM Designated Degree Program List to confirm your degree qualifies. Your degree's CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs) must match a code on this list. Your Designated School Official (DSO) can verify this information in your SEVIS record.

Application Process and Timeline

Timing is critical for the STEM OPT extension. You must file your application within specific windows to maintain work authorization.

When to Apply

You can submit your STEM OPT extension application:

• No earlier than 90 days before your current OPT expires
• No later than your OPT expiration date

USCIS must receive your application before your OPT expires, not just postmark it. Plan to submit at least 2-3 weeks before your expiration date to account for mail delays.

Required Documents

1. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) - file online or by mail
2. Form I-983 (Training Plan for STEM OPT Students) - signed by you and your employer
3. New I-20 with STEM OPT extension recommendation from your DSO
4. Copy of your STEM degree or final transcript
5. Copy of current EAD card (front and back)
6. Two passport-style photographs
7. Filing fee: $410 (as of 2026, verify current fee on USCIS website)

Important: If your STEM OPT application is pending when your initial OPT expires, you receive an automatic 180-day extension of work authorization. This cap extension allows you to continue working while USCIS processes your application, but only if you filed on time with a valid I-20 recommendation.

E-Verify Employer Requirement

Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to sponsor your STEM OPT extension. E-Verify is a web-based system that allows employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States.

How to Verify E-Verify Status

Ask your employer directly for their E-Verify Company ID number. You can also search the E-Verify employer database at e-verify.gov. The employer's E-Verify number must appear on Form I-983.

If your employer is not enrolled in E-Verify, they must complete enrollment before you can apply for STEM OPT. The enrollment process typically takes 1-2 weeks.

Unemployment Limits During STEM OPT

Unemployment rules are stricter during the STEM OPT period. Exceeding these limits can result in loss of F-1 status.

Unemployment days accumulate whenever you are not employed for at least 20 hours per week in a position related to your field of study. Days spent waiting for your STEM OPT approval while your cap-gap extension is active do not count as unemployment if you are still employed.

Form I-983: The Employer Training Plan

Form I-983 is the foundation of your STEM OPT extension. This training plan establishes the educational objectives of your employment and demonstrates how your job relates to your STEM degree.

Key Sections of Form I-983

Section 1 - Student Information: You complete this section with your personal and academic details.

Section 2 - Student Attestation: You confirm understanding of STEM OPT requirements and your responsibilities.

Section 3 - Employer Information: Your employer provides company details including E-Verify number and EIN.

Section 4 - Training Plan: This section describes your specific role, learning goals, and how your employer will provide mentorship and training opportunities.

Section 5 - Employer Attestation: Your supervisor certifies the training plan and agrees to compensation requirements.

Training Plan Requirements

Your employer must provide structured training with clear learning objectives. The training plan should explain:

• Specific skills and knowledge you will gain
• How these relate directly to your STEM degree
• Methods of oversight and evaluation
• Goals and milestones for your training period

Employers must also pay STEM OPT students wages comparable to U.S. workers in similar positions. Unpaid positions are not permitted during STEM OPT.

Reporting Requirements

During STEM OPT, you must report changes to your DSO within 10 days:

• Change of legal name or address
• Change of employer or addition of new employer
• Change in employment status (hours, termination)
• Change in employer name or address

You must also validate your information every six months, even if nothing has changed. Your DSO will contact you with validation reminders.

A 12-month and 24-month self-evaluation must be completed on Form I-983 and submitted to your DSO to document your training progress.

Next Steps

1. Confirm your degree qualifies: Check the STEM Designated Degree Program List and verify your CIP code with your DSO at least 120 days before your OPT expires.
2. Verify employer E-Verify status: Request your employer's E-Verify Company ID number and confirm enrollment before beginning Form I-983.
3. Complete Form I-983: Work with your supervisor to develop a detailed training plan that clearly connects your job duties to your STEM degree.
4. Request I-20 recommendation: Submit your completed Form I-983 to your DSO to receive the STEM OPT extension recommendation on your I-20.
5. File Form I-765: Submit your complete application to USCIS online or by mail no later than your OPT expiration date.

Disclaimer: Immigration regulations change frequently. This guide provides general information current as of early 2026. Always verify requirements with your Designated School Official and consult official USCIS resources at uscis.gov before filing any applications. Individual circumstances may vary.