What are the STEM OPT visa rules in the USA?

Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive overview of the STEM OPT Visa Rules in the USA:

• STEM OPT Extension:

The STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension allows international students who have completed a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field to extend their post-study work authorization in the USA.

• F-1 Visa Holders: You must be on an F-1 student visa.
• STEM Degree: Your most recent degree must be on the official DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
• Currently on Regular OPT: You must be in an active period of standard 12-month post-completion OPT.
• Employer Participation: Your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
• Job Relevance: The job must be directly related to your STEM degree.

• Total Duration:
• Regular OPT: 12 months (all international graduates)
• STEM OPT Extension: Additional 24 months (for eligible STEM graduates)
• Maximum Work Authorization: 36 months total (12 + 24 months)

• Timing: Apply up to 90 days before your current OPT expires and within 60 days after your DSO (Designated School Official) enters the STEM recommendation into SEVIS.
• USCIS Form: File Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with required documents.
• Employer’s Role: Complete and sign Form I-983 (Training Plan for STEM OPT Students).

• Employment:
• Must work at least 20 hours/week.
• Multiple employers are allowed if each employer meets all requirements.
• Unemployment Limit:
• You cannot exceed 150 days of unemployment during the entire OPT period (including regular and STEM OPT).
• Reporting:
• Report any changes in employment, address, or status within 10 days.
• Submit a validation report every 6 months, and self-evaluations after 12 and 24 months.
• Employer Requirements:
• Must provide formal training and learning objectives (per Form I-983).
• Must be E-Verify registered.
• Cannot be a staffing agency or third-party placement (employment must be direct).

• Cap-Gap Extension: If your employer files an H-1B petition and change of status request, you may be eligible for a "cap-gap" extension to bridge the period between OPT expiration and H-1B start date.

Pollster Education offers 100% free consultation to help you:

• Identify STEM-eligible degrees and universities in the USA.
• Guide you through the entire OPT and STEM OPT process.
• Advise on career planning, employer selection, and compliance.
• Support you with visa extensions, work authorization, and transition to H-1B.

• Contact us today for personalized guidance:
• Address: 8, Alankar Building, 1st Floor, Balaram Street, Above Bank of India, Grant Road (E), Mumbai
• Phone: +919324480791
• Email: info@pollstereducation.com

We’re here to ensure your US study and career plans are successful!