STEM OPT Extension Guide
F-1 students who graduated with a qualifying STEM degree can extend OPT by 24 months, for up to 36 months of total work authorization. This is one of the most valuable pathways for international STEM graduates bridging to H-1B status.
Confirm STEM Degree Eligibility
Your degree must be in a designated STEM CIP code. Check ICE's STEM designated degree program list — most engineering, CS, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics degrees qualify. Your school must be accredited.
Employer Signs Form I-983 (Training Plan)
Your employer must develop a formal training plan (Form I-983) and commit to reporting your employment status to your DSO. The employer must be E-Verify enrolled — this is a hard requirement.
DSO Recommends STEM OPT
Bring the completed I-983 to your DSO. They will update your SEVIS record and issue a new I-20 with a STEM OPT recommendation. This must happen before you file with USCIS.
File I-765 with USCIS
Submit I-765 (with $520 fee) at least 90 days before your current OPT expires. If you file on time and USCIS hasn't decided before your EAD expires, your authorization is automatically extended 180 days while pending.
Maintain Reporting Requirements
Every 6 months, you must confirm employment details with your DSO. Within 5 business days of any job change, you must report the new employer (new I-983 required). Gaps in employment over 90 days may violate status.
Apply for H-1B During STEM OPT
Use the 24-month extension period to build H-1B lottery applications. You can apply for 2–3 H-1B lotteries during STEM OPT. If selected, you can bridge from STEM OPT directly to H-1B status on October 1st.