F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) Extension

24-Month STEM OPT Extension Information For F-1 MIT International Students

CRITICAL WARNING: Failure to file the STEM OPT Extension application within the REQUIRED DEADLINES will result in the loss of F-1 status and the STEM OPT Extension benefit.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: The ISO strongly encourages reviewing ALL information, instructions, links, and handouts on this webpage and across the ISO website BEFORE submitting a STEM OPT Extension request to the ISO – OR – filing a STEM OPT Extension application with USCIS.

I. CRITICAL STEM OPT EXTENSION INFORMATION

Who This Page Is For:

  • This information is ONLY for MIT-sponsored F-1 students who:
    • Have already been approved for Post-Completion OPT, and

ATTENTION: Students CANNOT apply directly for the STEM OPT Extension. They MUST first meet all the requirements and be within the allowable timeframe. Failure to timely file the STEM OPT Extension application will result in the loss of F-1 status and the STEM OPT Extension benefit.

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Who This Page Is NOT For:

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Important STEM OPT Extension Filing Deadlines

  • USCIS MUST receive a STEM OPT Extension application within a specific timeline:
    • NO LATER than the day BEFORE the Post-Completion OPT EAD card expires, and
    • NO EARLIER than 90 days BEFORE the Post-Completion OPT EAD card expires.

CRITICAL REMINDER: Students MUST be physically present in the United States on the date USCIS receives/receipts their STEM OPT application.

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New STEM OPT Form I-20 Required

  • Before filing a STEM OPT Extension application with USCIS, an F-1 student MUST first:
    • 1) Submit a request for a STEM OPT Extension Form I-20 in iMIT.
    • 2) Obtain the new Form I-20 from the ISO, which includes the STEM OPT Extension recommendation list on page 2.
      • Complete instructions for filing the STEM OPT Extension application are provided on the ISO website [here].

WARNING: Submitting a STEM OPT Extension application to USCIS without the updated STEM OPT Form I-20 from the ISO will result in the application being DENIED.

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II. F-1 OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING (OPT) OVERVIEW

U.S. Work/Employment Rules & Regulations

U.S. federal regulations strictly limit the types of work/employment that international students may perform. Any work/employment-related activities require proper authorization BEFORE they begin. Understanding these rules and regulations is essential to maintaining a lawful F-1 status in the United States.

Under guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), a person DOES NOT need to be formally classified as an “employee” for work/employment authorization to be required.

The U.S. government defines work/employment by the “nature of the activities, services, and/or duties performed”, regardless of payment, or whether the employer is based in or outside the U.S. If an individual provides any services or benefits to an employer, organization, or individual, they MUST have proper authorization.

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OPT Work/Employment Options

IMPORTANT REMINDER: OPT is NOT a separate U.S. immigration status. It is a “benefit” of F-1 status. After completing an MIT degree program, F-1 status is no longer tied to academics, but rather to U.S. work/employment.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of off-campus work authorization available to eligible F-1 students under U.S. federal regulations [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)(C)]. There are three (3) types of OPT available to F-1 students:

  • 1) Pre-Completion OPT (Pre-OPT): Off-campus work/employment issued BEFORE completing an MIT degree program. Students should review the ISO Pre-Completion OPT webpage and the F-1 Pre-Completion OPT slides [Kerberos Required].
  • 2) Post-Completion OPT (Post-OPT): Off-campus work/employment authorization issued AFTER degree completion. Students should review the ISO Post-Completion OPT webpage.
  • 3) STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT): Off-campus work/employment for F-1 students who have earned a degree included in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM-Designated Degree Program List AND are currently in an active period of approved Post-Completion OPT.
    • Students should review this ISO webpage and the ISO F-1 24-Month STEM OPT Extension: Eligibility, Application, & Guidance webpage.   

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How to Apply for the STEM OPT Extension

ATTENTION: Students CANNOT apply directly for the STEM OPT Extension. They MUST first meet all the requirements and be within the allowable timeframe.

Key Required Steps

Applying for the STEM OPT Extension requires three (3) key steps, which MUST be completed in the order below:

  • Step 1: F-1 students interested in applying for STEM OPT MUST thoroughly review the ISO F-1 24-Month STEM OPT Extension: Eligibility, Application, & Guidance webpage, the ISO F-1 STEM OPT Extension slides, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM OPT Hub website.
  • Step 2: Submit a request for the STEM OPT Form I-20 with the ISO in iMIT and WAIT for the new Form I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation (page 2) from the ISO.
  • Step 3: File a STEM OPT Extension application with USCIS within the allowable timeframe.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: The processing time for an OPT application is 3-5 months. USCIS has a maximum processing time of 5 months to process an application. For expedited processing of an OPT application, students MUST submit a Premium Processing request with USCIS.

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III. KEY STEM OPT EXTENSION RULES & REQUIREMENTS

STEM OPT Extension Rules

  • A) The 24-month STEM OPT Extension allows eligible F-1 students who earned their most recent bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in the U.S. in a DHS-designated STEM field to extend their approved Post-Completion OPT by up to 24 additional months beyond the standard 12-month Post-Completion OPT period.
  • B) ONLY one (1) STEM OPT Extension *per degree level (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) and NO MORE than two (2) STEM OPT Extensions in a lifetime.
  • C) Unused OPT and/or STEM OPT time CANNOT be reclaimed or transferred.
    • *‘Per Degree Level’ means once granted, the combined OPT and/or STEM OPT benefits are considered used by U.S. immigration, even if the student DOES NOT utilize the entire OPT and/or STEM OPT periods. The individual is NOT eligible to apply again at the same degree level.
      • Example: A student who was granted 12 months of Post-Completion OPT at the master’s level CANNOT receive another OPT authorization for a second master’s degree.
  • D) STEM OPT may be granted based on a previously earned STEM degree from an accredited U.S. institution IF:
    • The degree was earned within the past 10 years, AND
    • The student had not previously applied for STEM OPT Extension at the *same degree level or a higher degree level.
      • Example: A master’s student currently approved for Post-Completion OPT based on a non-STEM degree may still be eligible for the STEM OPT Extension IF they previously earned a bachelor’s degree in a DHS-designated STEM field and never applied for STEM OPT at the bachelor’s level.
    • NOTE: The current DHS STEM-Designated Degree Program List is maintained by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is available on the ICE website [here].

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Application & Reporting Requirements

To begin and maintain STEM OPT authorization, both the student and the employer MUST complete and submit a Form I-983 (Training Plan For STEM OPT Students), and follow ALL requirements:

  • Student Requirements
    • MUST obtain a new STEM OPT Form I-20 from the ISO BEFORE submitting an application to USCIS.
    • MUST be physically present in the U.S. when USCIS receives/receipts the application.
    • MUST maintain work/employment that is more than 20+ hours per week with each E-Verified STEM OPT employer.
    • CANNOT volunteer or be self-employed; all work/employment-related activities, services, and/or duties MUST be paid.
    • CANNOT exceed a combined total of 150 days unemployed.
      • Once the STEM OPT Extension is approved, an additional 60 days of unemployment is allotted, for a combined total of 150 days (90 days from Post-Completion OPT + 60 days from STEM OPT).
  • Employer Requirements
    • MUST meet all reporting obligations required by DHS and ISO.
    • MAY be subject to DHS site visits to confirm compliance with STEM OPT regulations.

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Payment/Compensation & Hourly Requirements

All work/employment during STEM OPT MUST:

  • Be more than 20+ hours per week, for each STEM OPT employer, and compensation MUST reflect that level of work.
  • Be paid at the same level as “similarly situated” U.S. workers in comparable positions, and at least the federal minimum wage or equivalent compensation.

ATTENTION: Unpaid or compensated by only equity or stock options is NOT allowed.

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STEM Degree Field of Study Requirements

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) strictly monitors work/employment authorization for international students. DHS policy requires that all off-campus work/employment (OPT and STEM OPT) MUST meet all eligibility criteria, and be “directly related to the student’s major field of study” [8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)].

  • Students should review the detailed guidance on the ISO website, the ISO Knowledge Base, and official U.S. government resources BEFORE accepting any work/employment opportunities.

CRITICAL WARNING: All OPT or STEM OPT work/employment MUST be specific to the individual’s degree field and CANNOT be based on general skills or knowledge gained from individual courses.

COMPLIANCE ALERT: To protect current and future immigration statuses and benefits, such as F-1 STEM OPT, Cap-Gap, H-1B status, or U.S. Permanent Residency, F-1 students MUST ensure that they follow ALL federal requirements and mandatory reporting around work/employment.

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IV. STEM OPT EXTENSION REMINDERS

Dates & Deadlines

Students MUST submit the STEM OPT Extension application ONLY within the federal filing window. USCIS will DENY applications submitted too early or too late.

  • Filing Timelines:
    • Earliest ISO I-20 Request: A STEM OPT Form I-20 can be requested from ISO (via iMIT) up to 110 days BEFORE the expiration date on the Post-Completion OPT EAD card.
      • Example: If the OPT EAD expires on June 30, the earliest ISO request date is 110 days before that date, or March 20.
    • Earliest USCIS Submission: A STEM OPT application can be filed with USCIS up to 90 days BEFORE the OPT EAD expires – AND – only AFTER receiving the new ISO-issued STEM OPT Form I-20.
      • Example: If the OPT EAD expires on June 30, the earliest USCIS filing date is 90 days BEFORE that date, or April 2.
    • Latest USCIS Submission: USCIS MUST receive a complete and correct STEM OPT application BEFORE the current OPT EAD expires.
      • Example: If the OPT EAD expires on June 30, USCIS MUST receive the application by June 29.

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Application Reminders

  • Filing Methods: USCIS online account or paper mail.
  • Tracking: Use the USCIS account or case status tools with the OPT receipt number to check the status after filing.

IMPORTANT: If a STEM OPT Extension application is filed within the allowable timeframe, and if an OPT EAD card expires while the STEM OPT application is still pending, the applicant is eligible for an automatic extension of their OPT work/employment authorization for up to 180 days.

NOTE: This automatic extension ends when USCIS issues a decision on the application.

CRITICAL WARNING: Students MUST be physically present in the United States on the date USCIS receives their STEM OPT application.

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Travel Reminders

ALWAYS review immigration documents BEFORE booking or traveling outside the U.S. to confirm eligibility to return to the country.

  • After a STEM OPT Extension is approved, F-1 students MUST follow the travel guidance on the ISO Traveling During F-1 OPT/STEM OPT webpage.
  • If a new F-1 visa sticker/stamp is required, the individual MUST apply for and receive a new F-1 visa sticker/stamp from a U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad.
    • NOTE: Approval of a new F-1 visa sticker/stamp is NEVER GUARANTEED, even if approved for one in the past.

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V. STEM OPT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

This section is updated regularly as the ISO receives new questions from the MIT community and as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provides additional guidance. Additional FAQs are available on the DHS website [here].

  • 1) Using a Previous STEM Degree
    • Q: I am on Post-Completion OPT using my non-STEM degree, but I previously earned a STEM degree from a U.S. institution. Can I apply for the STEM OPT Extension and keep my current job?
      • A: Review the STEM OPT eligibility requirements and the STEM OPT Extension Rules section above (specifically D).
  • 2) Purpose of Form I-983
    • Q: What is the purpose of the Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students?
      • A: Students are required to submit the Form I-983 to ensure that they are receiving the academic and training benefits necessary to maintain their F-1 status and STEM OPT authorization.
        • Students MUST work with their employer to prepare and maintain the Form I-983 Training Plan. For more information, visit the DHS Form I-983 Resources webpage.
  • 3) Changes to the Form I-983 Training Plan
    • Q: What if I need to make changes or updates to my Form I-983 Training Plan?
      • A: Any “Material Changes” require the student and employer to update and sign a new Form I-983. Submission of the revised form to the ISO (via iMIT) is required within 10 calendar days of the change/update. Details are on the ISO STEM OPT Reporting Requirements webpage.
  • 4) Annual Training Evaluations [REQUIRED]
    • Q: How will my training be evaluated during STEM OPT?
      • A: Students are REQUIRED to submit a STEM OPT report to the ISO (via iMIT) EVERY six (6) Months beginning six (6) months AFTER the start date listed on the approved STEM OPT EAD card.
        • Additionally, the student and their STEM OPT employer MUST complete and sign the required Form I-983 Self-Evaluations (page 5) EVERY twelve (12) Months.
        • Details are on the ISO STEM OPT Reporting Requirements webpage.
  • 5) Travel While STEM OPT Application Is Pending
    • Q: I am applying for the STEM OPT Extension and need to travel outside of the U.S. Can I travel outside the U.S. while the STEM OPT Extension is pending?
      • A: Students are always free to depart the U.S. at any time, and they may travel with their approved Post-Completion OPT period if their EAD card is still valid.
        • However, if their current Post-Completion OPT EAD card has expired, they should NOT exit the U.S., as re-entry will require the new STEM EAD card.
        • Review the ISO Traveling During F1-OPT/STEM OPT webpage for more information.
        • Additionally, if a student’s current F-1 visa sticker/stamp has expired, the student MUST apply for a new one at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad with their approved STEM EAD card BEFORE returning to the U.S.

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VI. ADDITIONAL STEM OPT RESOURCES

Quick Reminders:

  • Maintaining a U.S. immigration status is an F-1 student’s RESPONSIBILITY.
  • NEVER begin paid or unpaid work/employment without proper authorization.
  • Report ALL changes and updates in iMIT within 10 calendar days.
  • During approved periods of OPT, a travel signature on a Form I-20 is valid for ONLY six (6) months from the date it was issued, as indicated on page 2 of the most recently issued Form I-20.
  • Keep copies of ALL immigration and employment documentation ever issued.

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ISO/MIT Resources:

  • ISO USCIS Online Form I-765 Filing Resource Guide handout
  • ISO F-1 Post-Completion OPT: Reporting Requirements webpage
  • ISO STEM OPT Extension slides
  • ISO F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) Extension webpage (i.e., this webpage)
  • ISO F-1 24-Month STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) Extension webpage
  • ISO F-1 STEM OPT Extension: Reporting Requirements webpage
  • ISO Knowledge Base webpage
    • For delays in receiving an OPT receipt notice, consult the ISO Knowledge Base guidance [here].
  • ISO main Employment webpage
  • MIT International Scholars Office (ISchO) Guidance for MIT Departments/Offices hiring individuals on the F-1 STEM OPT webpage
  • NAFSA STEM OPT Rulemaking webpage

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USCIS Resources:

  • USCIS STEM OPT Resource webpage
  • USCIS Announces F-1 STEM OPT Extension, STEM OPT Extension, and STEM OPT Extension Application Fee Increases (Effective April 1, 2024)
  • USCIS Announces F-1 STEM OPT Extension, STEM OPT Extension, and STEM OPT Extension Premium Processing Fees Increase (Effective February 26, 2024)
  • USCIS General Online Filing Information webpage
  • USCIS Introduces Online Filing for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization Resources:
    • Overview of myUSCIS for Applicants webpage (May 5, 2021)
    • USCIS Ombudsman’s Webinar Series, Updated Questions & Answers webpage (May 5, 2021), and Webinar Series Slides (April 2021)
    • Engagement Readout for F-1 Students Seeking Optional Practical Training webpage (May 5, 2021)
    • USCIS Online Filing and Customer Service Tools, PowerPoint presentation, and Q&A webpage (March 31, 2021)

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DHS & ICE Resources:

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VII. HISTORICAL UPDATES REGARDING STEM OPT CHANGES

Based on an August 12, 2015, federal court ruling on a lawsuit challenging the validity of the STEM OPT program and subsequent rulings, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was given until May 10, 2016, to complete new STEM OPT rulemaking to continue the STEM OPT Program beyond May 10, 2016.

  • June 17, 2016 – WashTech files a new lawsuit with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia explicitly based on the 2016 STEM OPT rule and procedural claims. 
  • May 13, 2016 – The U.S. DC Circuit Court of Appeals dismisses WashTech’s appeal.
  • March 11, 2016 – DHS publishes its final rule for STEM OPT and Cap-Gap program, effective May 10, 2016. Study in the States Launches STEM OPT Hub to Help Schools, Students, and Employers Understand New Regulations.
  • March 9, 2016 – DHS schedules publication of the Final STEM OPT and Cap-Gap Rule for 3/11/2016.
  • January 23, 2016 – The U.S. District Court grants DHS’s request for an extension of stay to May 10, 2016.
  • December 22, 2014 – DHS requests an extension of the stay beyond February 12, 2016, to meet the court’s original vacatur order, given receipt of over 50,000 comments on the proposed rule.
  • October 19, 2015 – DHS publishes updated Proposed Rule for F-1 STEM OPT.
  • August 12, 2015 – Washington Alliance of Technology Workers v. DHS Court Ruling & Court Order.

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Disclaimer: The information on this webpage is only for MIT-sponsored students.

For additional questions, students should first review the ISO Employment web pages thoroughly. They are encouraged to use the ISO search tool (located at the top of the ISO website) or consult the comprehensive FAQ section in the ISO Knowledge Base. MIT students may also contact their designated ISO Advisor directly for assistance.

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