What is STEM OPT & How to Get a 24-Month OPT Extension?

✅ STEM OPT is a 24-month work extension available for F-1 students who completed a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM).
✅ This extends your total OPT period to 36 months (12-month regular OPT + 24-month STEM OPT).

---

🔹 1️⃣ Who is Eligible for STEM OPT?

✔ You are on Post-Completion OPT (12-month OPT).
✔ Your degree is in a STEM-approved field (Check the STEM Designated Degree List).
✔ Your employer is E-Verify registered (Check at USCIS E-Verify).
✔ Your job is related to your STEM degree and paid.
✔ You did not exceed 90 days of unemployment on your 12-month OPT.

📌 If you previously used STEM OPT, you can apply again after completing another higher STEM degree.

---

🔹 2️⃣ When Should You Apply for STEM OPT?

📅 Apply up to 90 days before your current OPT expires.
📅 USCIS must receive your application before your OPT ends.
📅 If you apply on time, you can continue working for 180 days while waiting for approval.

---

🔹 3️⃣ How to Apply for a STEM OPT Extension?

Step 1: Request a STEM OPT I-20 from Your School (DSO)

✅ Contact your DSO (Designated School Official) and submit a STEM OPT request form.
✅ Work with your employer to complete Form I-983 (Training Plan).
✅ Your DSO will issue a new I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation.

📌 Form I-983 must outline how your job relates to your STEM degree.

---

Step 2: Prepare & Submit Form I-765 to USCIS

✅ Fill out Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
✅ Use Eligibility Category Code (c)(3)(C) for STEM OPT.
✅ Gather the required documents:

• New STEM OPT I-20 (signed by DSO) (Issued within the last 60 days).

• Copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months).

• Copy of F-1 visa.

• Copy of I-94 (Download from CBP Website).

• Copy of current EAD card (OPT card).

• Copy of diploma or transcripts (to prove STEM degree).

• 2 passport-size photos (Taken within the last 30 days).

• Filing fee of $410 (Paid via check, money order, or credit card using Form G-1450).

---

Step 3: Submit Application to USCIS (Online or By Mail)

✅ You can file online at USCIS Online Filing OR mail your application.
✅ If mailing, send your complete application to the correct USCIS Lockbox based on your address.

📌 USCIS must receive your application before your current OPT expires!

---

🔹 4️⃣ What Happens After You Apply?

✅ Receipt Notice (I-797C): USCIS confirms they received your application.
✅ OPT Extension Pending? You can continue working for 180 days after your OPT expires.
✅ Processing Time: 90–120 days (sometimes longer).
✅ Approval Notice: If approved, you’ll get a new EAD card valid for 24 more months.

🚨 If your application is denied, you must stop working immediately.

---

🔹 5️⃣ STEM OPT Rules & Reporting Requirements

📌 You Must Report to Your DSO Every 6 Months:
✅ Every 6 months: Update your employer details & confirm employment.
✅ Every 12 months: Submit a self-evaluation (Page 5 of Form I-983).
✅ Final Evaluation: Submit before leaving your job or STEM OPT ends.

📌 Unemployment Limit:
❌ You cannot be unemployed for more than 150 days (90 days from OPT + 60 days from STEM OPT).

📌 Employer Responsibilities:
✔ Employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
✔ Employer must provide training based on Form I-983.

---

🟢 Summary: How to Get a 24-Month STEM OPT Extension?

✔ Step 1: Check if your degree is STEM-eligible.
✔ Step 2: Request a STEM OPT I-20 from your DSO.
✔ Step 3: Fill out Form I-983 with your employer.
✔ Step 4: Submit Form I-765 & documents to USCIS.
✔ Step 5: Continue working while waiting for approval (180-day extension rule applies).
✔ Step 6: Follow 6-month & 12-month reporting requirements.

🚀 Would you like help filling out Form I-765, choosing a STEM job, or ensuring a smooth application? 😊