OPT STEM Extension

The degree programs that qualify for the STEM extension are listed on https://www.ice.gov/doclib/sevis/pdf/stemList2023.pdf. Please note that the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code is located on page 1 of the Form I-20 adjacent to “Major 1” under the Program of Study.

1. Eligibility Requirements

   1. Students must be currently authorized in Post-Completion period working for a US employer in a job that is directly related to the program of study.
   2. Students must have graduated from a bachelor's degree or higher in a program of study listed on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM Designated Degree Program List.
   3. Students' paid job or job offers must be from an employer registered with the E-Verify employment verification system.
   4. Students have not previously received the STEM extension at the same educational level.
   5. Student submits a completed STEM OPT Extension Application and i-983 Mentoring and Training Plan to a DSO at Touro University.
   6. A DSO will recommend the OPT STEM extension in SEVIS after verifying the student's eligibility.

2. Application Period and Process

   1. Application Period
      1. Students who have graduated with an eligible STEM degree and are currently on Post-Completion OPT may complete their application for the STEM Extension 90 days before their current OPT expires.
      2. Students who file a timely application for OPT STEM extension will be able to continue their employment up to 180 days while the application is pending.
   2. Submit the following documents to a DSO at Touro University for STEM OPT I-20 extension purposes:
      1. A completed STEM Extension Application
      2. A Completed i-983 Mentoring and Training Plan - ICE Form I-983
      3. An employment verification letter from an E-Verified employer.
      4. A copy of diploma or transcript which your STEM extension will be based.
   3. The DSO will issue a new Form I-20 recommending STEM OPT Extension. The student will then complete a new Form I-765 with USCIS for the STEM Extension Authorization. The extension starts following the expiration of your current EAD and ends 24 months later.

3. Validation and Reporting Requirements During the STEM OPT Extension

   1. Students with an approved STEM OPT extension must submit a validation report to the DSO every six months, starting from the date the STEM extension begins and ends, as well as when:
      1. The student's F1 status ends; or
      2. The student changes educational levels at the same school; or
      3. The student transfers to another school; or
      4. The OPT extension ends.
   2. The validation report must include:
      1. Student's full name
      2. Current residence address and mailing address if different from residence address
      3. Name and address of current employer
      4. Date student began working for the current employer
   3. In addition to the validation reports, students on STEM extension must notify the DSO within 10 days if:
      1. Any change of name, residence, or mailing address
      2. Any change of employer - submitting an employment letter from the new employer and a final i-983 from previous employer, as well as a new i-983 for the new employer.
      3. Any change to the name and address of the current employer
      4. Any interruption of employment

4. Travel

   1. Although students may continue to work while the STEM OPT extension is being adjudicated, students will not be able to return to the US after traveling abroad during the period between the expiration of the current EAD and before you receive the EAD for the STEM extension. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT STUDENTS IN F1 STATUS NEED AN UNEXPIRED PASSPORT VALID FOR 6 MONTHS INTO THE FUTURE AND AN UNEXPIRED F1 VISA IN YOUR PASSPORT TO RETURN BACK TO THE UNITED STATES.

5. The I-765 Application

   1. USCIS currently accepts OPT/STEM OPT applications by two methods: online OR by paper application through the mail. It is strongly recommended to complete the I-765 application for employment authorization online.
   2. Required Documents/Fee
      1. USCIS Filing Fee: Please pay the appropriate fee to USCIS (check current fee here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765)
      2. Photocopy of newly issued I-20 with the STEM OPT Extension recommended
      3. Photocopy of all Form I-20s issued by Touro University and any other schools with CPT or OPT recommendations
      4. Photocopy of diploma or official/unofficial transcript as evidence that your program of study is included on the DHS STEM OPT list
      5. Two passport format photos. See photo requirements at Form I-765, Instructions for Application for Employment Authorization (uscis.gov)
      6. Photocopies of the following:
         1. Previous EAD card(both sides)
         2. Passport identification page including photo and expiration date
         3. Visa
         4. Photocopy of paper I-94 of electronic I-94 from I94 - Official Website (dhs.gov)
         5. Completed Form i-983 (all sections except the evaluations)
   3. Please note: USCIS may require more evidence for your application, at which time they will send a Request for Evidence. You will need to respond to this request in a timely manner or else your application will be denied.

6. Once your STEM OPT application is approved:

   1. Submit a copy of your new EAD card to the DSO when you receive it