STEM Extension of OPT

This request is for qualified students in a valid period of post-completion OPT who wish to request an additional 24 months of OPT authorization. Students with STEM Designated Degrees  should review the eligibility requirements, application process, regulatory considerations, and reporting responsibilities.

Students applying for STEM-OPT Extension must be employed by a U.S. company that is a member of  E-Verify.

Eligibility Requirements:
 

• Successfully completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree within a field of STEM Designated Degrees 
• Currently be within 90 days of their Post-Completions OPT end date. USCIS must receive your STEM OPT application prior to your current OPT end date.
• Have not exceeded 90 days of unemployment while on Post-Completion OPT.  
• Currently working full-time for a US employer that is a member of E-Verify within a career field that is directly related to your earned degree.
• Receive an I-20 from ISO recommending STEM-OPT Extension prior to submitting your application to USCIS. You must request the I-20 a minimum of 5 business days prior to your OPT end date.

NOTE: If you currently do not have an employer, you can apply for STEM with an offer from an E-Verified employer that would begin on the first day after your current OPT ends.


Apply for STEM OPT Extension

 Request

At the time of receiving your I-20, you will be given instructions for completing the application process either online or through the mail. ISO cannot advise on which method of delivery you should send your application.

STEM OPT Employer Update

Update

All STEM OPT employers must be part of E-Verify. You cannot work for an employer that is not part of E-Verify while on STEM-OPT, as this is a direct violation of your F-1 status.​​

STEM Validation Report Submission

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