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.

illustration of globe, briefcase and work tie

Visit USCIS STEM Resources

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

checklist illustration

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.

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).

STEM OPT Resources

For Students

Student

Resources

Are you interested in participating in STEM OPT? Get started with these resources.

Students: Determining STEM OPT Extension Eligibility

Students: STEM OPT Reporting Requirements

Students and the Form I-983

For Schools

School

Resources

DSOs must recommend a student for STEM OPT and satisfy reporting requirements. Learn more with these resources. 

DSOs: Recommending Students for the STEM OPT Extension

DSOs: STEM OPT Reporting Requirements

F-1 STEM OPT Extension

DSOs and the Form I-983

For Employers

Employer

Resources

Are you an employer of STEM OPT students? Read these resources to learn more about your reporting responsibilities and requirements.  

Employers and the Form I-983

Why STEM OPT is Good for Small Business

Employer Site Visits

Employers: STEM OPT Reporting Requirements

Additional Resources

Additional Resources

For Stakeholders

I'm Looking For

Contact Us

Phone

SEVP Response Center

703-603-3400

Office

Monday - Friday 
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET,
except holidays