STEM OPT Hub

Students, designated school officials (DSOs) and employers can use this page to learn about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) rules and regulations for the optional practical training (OPT) extension for F-1 students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) degrees. Visit the STEM OPT Extension Overview to learn more.

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Visit USCIS STEM Resources

Learn about options for STEM professionals, including F-1 students, to work in the United States.

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Visit STEM Designated Degree List Resources

Visit the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and CIP Code Nomination Process tab on ICE.gov to access the latest DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and instructions for nominating a CIP code for inclusion on or removal from the list.

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Eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students with STEM degrees from Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified and accredited U.S. colleges and universities may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Interested F-1 students must apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).