STEM OPT Extension
STEM OPT Extension
USCIS (U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services) determines which degrees are STEM-related based on the CIP Code (Classification of Instructional Programs) assigned to that degree. Those CIP Codes that are on the approved STEM Designated Degree Program List are eligible to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension after the completion of one year on OPT. You can see what CIP Code is assigned to your degree by checking page 1 of your I-20, under "Program." If the CIP Code assigned to your degree is also on the STEM Designated Degree Program List then you are eligible to apply for the STEM OPT Extension after your first year of OPT.
To apply for a STEM OPT Extension you need to:
- Confirm your degree is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and is eligible for STEM OPT Extension.
- Confirm your employer is e-verified, as this is a requirement to apply for and work on STEM OPT.
- Submit a completed I-983 form to your DSO. Pages 1-4 need to be completed in order to apply for STEM OPT. You can read instructions on how to to fill out the I-983 here.
- Request STEM OPT via your Terra Dotta Profile
- Log into Terra Dotta
- Navigate to the "Control Center" in your Terra Dotta profile
- Fill out the "OPT-STEM Extension Request" form
- Receive an updated I-20 that includes a STEM OPT Extension request from your DSO.
- Fill out a new online I-765. Indicate that you are applying for "Renewal of my permission to accept employment."
- Submit your completed I-765 online with your new STEM OPT Extension I-20 included.
While on STEM OPT you will need to report your employment information to your DSO periodically by submitting a completed, and updated I-983 form. This form needs to be submitted to your DSO:
- When you apply for STEM OPT and prior to you beginning your STEM OPT employment.
- At the 12-month mark of your STEM OPT, and
- At the 24-month mark of your STEM OPT
Here is a sample I-983 form that shows which sections need to be completed at which stage of your STEM OPT:
- Yellow highlighted fields = Must be completed when applying for STEM OPT
- Green highlighted fields = Must be completed at the 12-month mark
- Red highlighted fields = Must be completed at the 24-month mark
STEM OPT has different regulations than initial OPT. While on STEM OPT you are required to work:
- In a job related to your field of study
- Only for e-verified companies
- At least 21 hours per week at any company
More information about STEM OPT regulations can be read here, on Study in the States.
If for any reason you change jobs while on your STEM OPT please follow these instructions:
- Fill out the “Final Evaluation on Student Progress” section on page 5 of your I-983 form and have your former supervisor sign and date it.
- Email your updated I-983 form to your DSO, explaining your employment situation.
Once you have received a new job: