STEM OPT Extension: 24 More Months of Work Authorization
If you have a STEM degree, you can extend your post-graduation OPT from 12 months to 36 months total. This is the most important benefit available to F-1 STEM graduates - and it comes with strict compliance requirements.
What the STEM OPT Extension Gives You
5 Requirements You Must Meet
STEM-designated degree
Your degree must appear on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Common qualifying fields: Computer Science, Engineering (all branches), Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Finance (quantitative), Economics, and Data Science. Check the official DHS list to confirm your specific CIP code.
Employer must be E-Verify enrolled
Your employer must actively participate in the E-Verify program at the time you start and throughout the extension. Employers can verify their status at e-verify.uscis.gov. Contractors and staffing agencies count only if the actual worksite employer is E-Verify enrolled.
Currently on valid post-completion OPT
You must apply before your initial OPT EAD expires. You have a 60-day window before your OPT end date to apply. USCIS will issue a new EAD if you apply on time - you can continue working while it's pending.
I-983 training plan signed by both parties
Your employer and you must complete and sign Form I-983, which describes your training objectives, how the position relates to your degree, and how the employer will assess your progress. This form is submitted to your DSO, not to USCIS.
Degree from a SEVP-certified school
The degree that qualifies you for STEM extension must have been earned from a SEVP-certified institution. Degrees from institutions that lost SEVP certification do not qualify.
Unemployment Rules: Two Separate Clocks
The clocks are separate: 90 days during the first 12 months, then 60 additional days during the STEM extension.
Ongoing Reporting Requirements
Validate your I-983 training plan with your DSO
Report address change to your DSO
Report employer change - must get new I-983 and DSO authorization
Report losing your job - 60-day unemployment clock starts immediately
Report change in employer's E-Verify status
Report completion of training plan
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