The STEM OPT Extension, Explained

What the STEM OPT extension is

F-1 students who earn a qualifying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree from an accredited, SEVP-certified U.S. institution may apply to extend their post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) by an additional 24 months. This is separate from the standard 12-month OPT — the extension adds up to 24 more months of authorised work experience in a field related to the STEM degree.

The extension is authorised by USCIS through a new Form I-765 application and is coordinated with your Designated School Official (DSO), who recommends the extension in SEVIS first.

Which degrees qualify

Eligibility is based on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's STEM Designated Degree Program List, which uses Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes from the Department of Education. Your degree's CIP code must appear on this list for the extension to apply.

The STEM Designated Degree Program List is periodically updated — the authoritative current version is maintained on the Study in the States website. Always verify your degree's CIP code with your DSO rather than assuming it qualifies.

• Check the current DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List on studyinthestates.dhs.gov.
• Your degree must be from an accredited, SEVP-certified institution.
• The extension can be granted once per qualifying degree level; a higher-level qualifying STEM degree can generate another extension.

The E-Verify requirement for employers

A key requirement that distinguishes STEM OPT from standard OPT: the employer you work for during your STEM OPT extension must be enrolled in E-Verify, the federal online system that electronically verifies employment eligibility. Your employer does not need to be enrolled before you accept an offer, but enrollment must happen before your STEM OPT extension begins.

If your employer is not enrolled in E-Verify, you cannot use your STEM OPT extension at that job. Confirm your employer's E-Verify status early in your offer negotiation.

Training plan and reporting requirements

STEM OPT has additional ongoing requirements that standard OPT does not. Your employer and your DSO must complete a formal training plan (Form I-983) that describes the practical training goals, supervision, and how the work relates to your STEM degree. You must also report your employment status, employer information, and any changes to your DSO at required intervals throughout the extension period.

Failing to meet these reporting obligations can put your status at risk. Work closely with your DSO to stay on track.

How to apply

Start by discussing your intention to apply for STEM OPT with your DSO well before your current OPT EAD expires — at least 90 days before is recommended. Your DSO will update your SEVIS record with the STEM OPT recommendation. You then file Form I-765 with USCIS, along with the required supporting documents. USCIS processing times vary and are updated on uscis.gov; plan ahead because if your EAD expires before the extension is approved, there are cap-gap considerations your DSO can explain.

This guide provides orientation only. Always verify current rules, forms, fees, and processing times on the official sources listed below. This is not immigration advice.