STEM OPT Extension

Students who majored in an eligible Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) field may qualify for a one-time, 24-Month Extension of post-completion optional practical training (OPT).

A student may request a first STEM OPT extension if:

• Student is in a period of Active Post-Completion OPT.
• Student’s primary or secondary major was a STEM-eligible field, or the student completed a previous primary or secondary major in a currently STEM-eligible field.
• Student has not already had a STEM OPT extension of any duration based on the qualifying STEM degree.
• Qualifying STEM degree was at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level.
• Qualifying STEM degree was earned within the ten previous years of the date the DSO recommends the STEM OPT extension.
• School where the student earned the STEM degree is currently:
  • SEVIS-certified
  • Accredited by a U.S. Department of Education accrediting organizatio
• Student will be, or is working, for an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program.

A student may request a second STEM OPT extension if:

• Student is in a period of Active Post-Completion OPT.
• Student has a second STEM degree at a higher level than the one used for the first STEM OPT extension.
• Student has not already based any portion of a STEM OPT extension on the second STEM degree.
• Second STEM degree meets all the above requirements.

STEM OPT Timeline