Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published its final rule on the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) optional practical training (OPT) extension, which is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student’s program of study in an approved STEM field.

Study in the States launched the STEM OPT Hub in coordination with this new rule to help school officials, F-1 students and interested employers understand the new regulation. On the STEM OPT Hub, stakeholders can find information regarding:

• The STEM OPT transition plan.
• The new Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.”
• Reporting requirements for designated school officials (DSOs), students and employers.
• Eligibility requirements for students and guidance for DSOs recommending STEM OPT.
• Site visits to employers.
• The DHS Designated STEM Degree List. 

Today’s final rule effectively replaces the 17-month STEM OPT extension previously available to certain STEM F-1 students. The 17-month STEM OPT regulations remain in effect through May 9, 2016. The 2016 final rule’s STEM OPT 24-month extension is effective beginning on May 10, 2016.

Additionally, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will host a live webinar for stakeholders on Thursday, April 14, 2016, that will discuss the new rule. This webinar is free and open to the public. SEVP encourages both F-1 students and school officials to participate.

Help us promote the STEM OPT Hub by sharing this post with your networks on social media using the hashtags #StudyintheStates and #STEMOPT.