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17-month STEM Extension of OPT

You are eligible to apply for a 17-month extension, beyond the initial 12 months of OPT, if you meet all of the following conditions:

  • You are currently approved for post-completion OPT.
  • You completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) field. Visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website for the STEM Designated Degree Program List .
  • You have a job or job offer from an E-Verify employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. If I have a dual major, can I qualify for the STEM extension based on one of the degree programs?
    Yes, if one of the degrees is on the STEM Designated Degree Program List and any job worked while on the extension is related to the student's STEM degree.
     
  2. Can I qualify for the STEM extension based on my minor?
    No.
     
  3. If I previously earned a degree in a STEM field and now earned a non-STEM degree, can I apply for the extension?
     No. The STEM extension must be based on the same degree as the post-completion OPT.
     
  4. How can someone suggest a change to the STEM Designated Degree Program List?
     To suggest a change to the list of STEM designated degrees, write to sevis.source@dhs.gov, with "STEM Code Change Request" in the subject line. Please include your name, phone number, organizational affiliation, the code(s) you would like to see added and the rationale for the addition. Change requests will be reviewed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement with the Department of Education and other interested government agencies. Prior to June 9, 2008, you may also make recommendations for changes to the STEM Designated Degree Program List through the public comment process by submitting a comment on the OPT rule.
     
  5. When does my STEM extension OPT start?
     If you have properly filed for a STEM extension, the period of extension starts the day after the expiration of your original OPT period.
     
  6. Can I work with an expired EAD while my STEM extension is pending?
     Yes. Your work authorization is automatically extended for up to 180 days while the STEM extension application is pending.
     
  7. Can I change employers while the STEM extension is pending?
     Yes. However, if the STEM extension period has started, the employer must also be an E-Verify employer. The job change must be reported to your ISS adviser.