Optional Practical Training 24-Month OPT STEM Extension On May 10, 2016 the Department of Homeland Security started issuing 24-month long STEM OPT extensions. The following application explains who can apply for this extension and how. Who Can Apply You are eligible to for the 24-month STEM extension if: You are an F-1 student currently on your 12-month initial OPT who has maintained your F-1 status You are working for an E-verified employer The job offers at least 20 hours of work per week You have not applied for more than 1 STEM extension The job will provide Formal training and learning objectives directly related to your STEM degree In order to maintain F-1 status you must: Keep your passport valid at all times Refrain from unauthorized employment Not exceed more than 90 days of unemployment during your original 12 months of OPT When to Apply The application for post-completion OPT can be submitted up to 90 days prior to the completion of your current 12 months of OPT. While your application is pending, you can keep working while you wait for the STEM extension, even if your current 12 month OPT has expired. It is best to apply for OPT early to receive your EAD work permit in a timely manner. You cannot apply for STEM OPT after your current 12 months of OPT is completed. How to Apply Application for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) should be submitted by certified or tracking enabled mail to the USCIS. Make sure to follow these step-by-step instructions: Complete the Olin request for OPT recommendation (see below) Complete Form I-765 application Form Complete Form I-983 with your employer and submit with your application to International Scholar team in Student Affairs Use an active address in the US:
Optional Practical Training 24-Month OPT STEM Extension On May 10, 2016 the Department of Homeland Security started issuing 24-month long STEM OPT extensions. The following application explains who can apply for this extension and how. Who Can Apply You are eligible to for the 24-month STEM extension if: You are an F-1 student currently on your 12-month initial OPT who has maintained your F-1 status You are working for an E-verified employer The job offers at least 20 hours of work per week You have not applied for more than 1 STEM extension The job will provide Formal training and learning objectives directly related to your STEM degree In order to maintain F-1 status you must: Keep your passport valid at all times Refrain from unauthorized employment Not exceed more than 90 days of unemployment during your original 12 months of OPT When to Apply The application for post-completion OPT can be submitted up to 90 days prior to the completion of your current 12 months of OPT. While your application is pending, you can keep working while you wait for the STEM extension, even if your current 12 month OPT has expired. It is best to apply for OPT early to receive your EAD work permit in a timely manner. You cannot apply for STEM OPT after your current 12 months of OPT is completed. How to Apply Application for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) should be submitted by certified or tracking enabled mail to the USCIS. Make sure to follow these step-by-step instructions: Complete the Olin request for OPT recommendation (see below) Complete Form I-765 application Form Complete Form I-983 with your employer and submit with your application to International Scholar team in Student Affairs Use an active address in the US:
opt_stem_extention_3_19_18.docx