Understand OPT and STEM OPT Extension in Different Stages

This comprehensive guide walks you through the various stages of Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension in the United States. From initial eligibility to the final transition, the article covers seven key stages: Eligibility, Application, Approval and Start, Employment, Maintenance and Reporting, Transition, and Special Considerations. Readers will gain insights into the requirements, processes, and important considerations for both OPT and STEM OPT Extension at each stage. Whether you're just starting to explore OPT or are already in the process, this article provides valuable information to help navigate this important phase of your academic and professional journey in the U.S.

1. Eligibility Stage

OPT Eligibility

• Must be an F-1 student who has been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year
• Available for each higher educational level (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate)
• Can be used before completion of studies (Pre-Completion OPT) or after graduation (Post-Completion OPT)

STEM OPT Extension Eligibility

• Must be currently participating in Post-Completion OPT
• Must have earned a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree in a STEM field from a U.S. institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency
• The STEM degree must be on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List

2. Application Stage

OPT Application Process

1. Request recommendation for OPT from your Designated School Official (DSO)
2. Receive a new I-20 with OPT recommendation
3. File Form I-765 with USCIS within 30 days of DSO recommendation
4. Include required documents (passport photos, copy of I-20, academic transcripts, etc.)
5. Pay the filing fee

STEM OPT Extension Application Process

1. Request recommendation for STEM OPT from your DSO
2. Complete Form I-983 (Training Plan) with your employer
3. Receive a new I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation
4. File Form I-765 with USCIS up to 90 days before your current OPT expires
5. Include additional documents (copy of STEM degree, employer's E-Verify information)

3. Approval and Start Stage

OPT Approval

• USCIS processes the application (typically 3-5 months)
• If approved, receive Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Start date is usually the requested date or the date of approval, whichever is later

STEM OPT Extension Approval

• USCIS processes the application (typically 3-5 months)
• If approved, receive a new EAD
• STEM OPT begins the day after the initial OPT ends

4. Employment Stage

During OPT

• Can work up to 12 months in a job directly related to your field of study
• Must report any changes in employment or personal information to DSO
• Limited to 90 days of unemployment

During STEM OPT Extension

• Can work an additional 24 months (total of 36 months with initial OPT)
• Must work for an E-Verify enrolled employer
• Limited to 150 days of unemployment (including time from initial OPT)
• Must complete self-evaluations at 12 and 24 months
• Employer must provide training and compensation comparable to U.S. workers

5. Maintenance and Reporting Stage

OPT Reporting Requirements

• Report any changes in employment or personal information to DSO within 10 days
• Validate SEVIS record every 6 months

STEM OPT Reporting Requirements

• All OPT requirements, plus:
• Submit validation report to DSO every 6 months
• Report material changes to I-983 Training Plan
• Complete annual self-evaluation
• Employer must report termination or departure of student within 5 business days

6. Transition Stage

After OPT

• Prepare for transition: further studies, STEM OPT Extension, H-1B application, or departure from U.S.
• 60-day grace period after OPT ends to prepare for departure or change status

After STEM OPT Extension

• Similar options as after OPT
• Many use this time to apply for H-1B visas
• 60-day grace period after STEM OPT ends

7. Special Considerations

Cap-Gap Extension

• Allows F-1 students with pending or approved H-1B petitions to remain in the U.S. and continue working until the start of their H-1B status
• Bridges the gap between the end of OPT and the beginning of H-1B status

Entrepreneurship

• Students can use OPT and STEM OPT for self-employed business activities, provided all regulatory requirements are met
• Must be able to prove the work is related to their degree

8. Conclusion

Navigating the stages of OPT and STEM OPT Extension requires careful planning and attention to detail. Each stage presents its own set of requirements and opportunities. By understanding these stages, international students can maximize their practical training experience in the United States, setting a strong foundation for their future careers.

Remember that immigration regulations can change, so it's crucial to consult with your institution's International Student Office and stay informed about the most current rules and procedures. With proper preparation and compliance, OPT and STEM OPT can be invaluable experiences for international students transitioning from academic study to professional practice.