Reminder: OPT I-20 Needed
Do not submit your OPT application to USCIS without first obtaining an OPT recommendation I-20 from the OIS.
Do not submit your OPT application to USCIS without first obtaining an OPT recommendation I-20 from the OIS.
The STEM OPT extension is a 24-month extension of Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). F-1 students who graduated with a major in certain science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields and are on Post-Completion OPT may apply for STEM OPT if they meet all the eligibility requirements. On STEM OPT, all work needs to be directly related to your STEM major/s.
Please note that these resources are intended for general informational purposes only and are not legal advice. It is your responsibility to review and follow all official instructions provided by USCIS.
Who is eligible for STEM OPT?
To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, you must:
How do I apply?
When do I apply?
What can I expect as the USCIS processes my application?
Can I keep working while STEM OPT is pending?
As long as USCIS receives your STEM OPT application before your period of Post-Completion OPT expires, you may continue to work with your STEM employer while your STEM OPT application is pending until USCIS makes a final decision on your application or your application has been pending 180 days with USCIS (whichever comes first).
What do I need to report while on STEM OPT?
Am I allowed to take time off between jobs?
Yes! However, you may not be unemployed for more than 150 days (cumulative) during your combined periods of approved Post-Completion OPT and STEM OPT.
Remember, in order to be considered “employed” while on Post-Completion OPT, you must be working a minimum of 20 hours per week. Working less than 20 hours per week is considered “unemployment” on Post-Completion OPT; time spent working under 20 hours/week counts toward the 90 days of permitted unemployed time.
Completing the I-983
The I-983 is only required when applying for the STEM OPT extension. It should be completed and signed by you and your employer.
Only pages 1-4 need to be completed when you apply for STEM OPT. Remember, if you have multiple employers, you must work a minimum of 20 hours per week at each employer and submit an I-983 for each employer.
The I-983 should be submitted to the OIS, and not to USCIS. The form must be completed with all relevant signatures before you complete the STEM OPT I-20 Request Form.
This page is intended to help you and your employer fill out the I-983. The US government has also provided detailed instructions and a step-by-step tutorial for you and your employer to review when completing this form.
Be sure to submit a new I-983 to the OIS within 10 days of any of these changes