1. What is the STEM OPT Extension?
The STEM OPT Extension is an additional 24 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) for international students who have completed a degree in an approved Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field. During this period, students must work in a paid position related to their field of study. The extension allows these students to apply their knowledge and skills in a professional setting while gaining hands-on experience in their chosen field. It also allows them to continue to gain valuable career experience in the United States while they explore options for continuing their education, seek permanent employment, or transition to another form of visa status.
2. What documents are required to apply for the STEM OPT Extension?
The documents required for the STEM OPT Extension include:
#1. A valid passport
#2. I-20 form with the initial OPT recommendation
#3. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
#4. Evidence of enrollment in a STEM degree program
#5. Evidence of employer’s E-Verify enrollment
#6. A signed training plan outlining the goals and objectives of the STEM OPT Extension
#7. A copy of the most recent evaluation report from the previous OPT period (if applicable)
#8. A copy of the most recent Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record (if applicable)
3. How long is the STEM OPT Extension valid for?
The STEM OPT Extension is valid for up to 24 months.
4. Are any part-time work opportunities available under the STEM OPT Extension?
Yes, part-time work opportunities are available under the STEM OPT Extension, provided that the student’s employer is enrolled in the E-Verify program.
5. Is on-the-job training available under the STEM OPT Extension?
Yes, on-the-job training is available under the STEM OPT Extension. The employer must provide appropriate training, supervision, guidance, and mentorship to the employee, and the employee must have the opportunity to utilize and develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of their studies.
6. What is the deadline to apply for the STEM OPT Extension?
The STEM OPT Extension must be applied for within 90 days before the current OPT period expires.
7. Can an employer participate in the STEM OPT Extension if they are not enrolled in E-Verify?
Yes, an employer can participate in the STEM OPT Extension even if they are not enrolled in E-Verify. However, if the employer chooses to enroll in E-Verify, they must use it for all new hires.
8. How does my foreign degree relate to my STEM OPT extension eligibility?
Your foreign degree must be related to your STEM OPT extension eligibility. You must have a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an accredited U.S. institution that is related to an approved STEM OPT field in order to be eligible for the extension. Additionally, the degree must be equal to or higher than a U.S. bachelor’s degree and be officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the relevant accrediting bodies.
9. Are there any restrictions on the type of STEM-related employment I can pursue under the STEM OPT Extension?
There are certain restrictions you must follow when pursuing employment under the STEM OPT Extension. You must:
• Be employed by an employer that is enrolled in the E-Verify program.
• Work for an employer that is directly related to your field of study.
• Perform duties directly related to your degree program.
• Receive compensation commensurate with similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment.
• Follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
10. Are there any restrictions on where I can work under the STEM OPT Extension?
Yes, there are restrictions on where you can work with a STEM OPT Extension. You must work for an employer that is enrolled in E-Verify and for a job that is directly related to your field of study. Additionally, employers must provide you with structured and guided work-based learning opportunities, support you in achieving your training goals, and regularly evaluate your progress.
11. Can I change employers while my STEM OPT Extension is in effect?
Yes, you can change employers while the STEM OPT Extension is in effect, however, you must inform the DSO at your current school within 5 business days of when the employment begins with the new employer. The notice must include:
1. The employer’s name and address
2. Your job title
3. The start date of your new employment
Your new employer will also need to complete and sign a Form I-983 Training Plan for STEM OPT Students and provide it to you and your Designated School Official (DSO).
12. Is a new Form I-20 required for the STEM OPT Extension?
Yes, a new Form I-20 is required for the STEM OPT Extension.
13. Is an additional application fee required for the STEM OPT Extension?
No, there is no additional application fee required for the STEM OPT Extension.
14. Does travel outside of the US impact my eligibility for a STEM OPT Extension?
Yes, travel outside the U.S. may impact your eligibility for a STEM OPT Extension. For example, if you travel outside the U.S. for more than 5 months, you may have to apply for a new STEM OPT Extension. Additionally, travel outside the U.S. may require you to update your I-983 and complete any required training updates with your employer. You should consult your DSO before traveling outside the US to ensure you understand how it may impact your STEM OPT Extension status.
15. What is the SEVIS reporting requirements during my period of participation in a STEM OPT Extension program?
SEVIS requires that STEM OPT employers complete an initial Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, and submit the form to the student before the start of the STEM OPT period. Employers must also complete a mid-point evaluation Form I-983 and a final evaluation Form I-983 at the end of the student’s STEM OPT period. They must also report any changes in employment to SEVIS. Additionally, employers must report any violation of the terms and conditions of their STEM OPT to SEVIS within five business days.
16. Is there an additional fee to apply for a STEM OPT Extension?
No, there is no additional fee to apply for a STEM OPT Extension.
17. How often must I report to my DSO during the period of time I am in a STEM OPT Extension program?
You must report to your DSO every 6 months during your STEM OPT Extension program. This includes updating your contact information, reporting any changes to your employment, and providing documentation of your self-evaluation progress.
18. How long before expiration of my current OPT must I apply for a STEM OPT Extension?
You must apply for a STEM OPT extension before your current OPT expires.
19. Are there any minimum wage requirements for employers that offer employment under a STEM OPT Extension program?
Yes, employers must ensure that all STEM OPT Extension employees receive wages that are not less than the higher of the applicable federal, state, or local minimum wage. Employers must also comply with applicable federal, state and local labor laws.
20. Are there any limitations on how many hours a week I can work while in a STEM OPT Extension program?
Yes, there are limitations to the number of hours per week a student in a STEM OPT Extension program may work. During the initial period of STEM OPT, a student may not work more than 20 hours per week. If the Optional Practical Training (OPT) is extended for an additional 17 months, the student may work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and up to 40 hours per week during school recesses and holidays.