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This document serves as an application for a 17-month extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) for students holding STEM degrees, detailing the necessary requirements, application process, and

How to fill out 17 month extension of

How to fill out 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)

1. Assess your eligibility for the 17 Month Extension of OPT.
2. Ensure you have a qualifying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree.
3. Obtain a recommendation from your employer through the Form I-983.
4. Complete the Form I-765 for requesting the extension.
5. Gather supporting documents, including your current EAD card, passport, I-20, and Form I-983.
6. Pay the filing fee for Form I-765.
7. Submit the application package to USCIS, ensuring all documents are included.
8. Monitor your application status through the USCIS online portal.

Who needs 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

1. International students who have graduated with a STEM degree and are currently on post-completion OPT.
2. Students who wish to gain additional practical training in their field of study.
3. Employers looking to retain qualified international talent for longer periods.

People Also Ask about

What is the acceptance rate for OPT extension?

QUESTION 4: On average 97% of I765 OPT STEM extensions were approved in fiscal years 2015-2019.

What is the 14 month rule for OPT?

A student may not request a start date that is more than 60 days after the student's program end date. A student must complete all practical training within a 14-month period following the completion of study.

What is the 17 month OPT extension?

During the extension, you have to continue working at least 20 hours a week. During your first 12 months of standard OPT, you have a maximum of 90 days of unemployment. When your 17-month extension is approved, another 30 days of unemployment is added to the original 90-day allowance.

Can optional practical training be extended?

You may apply for your OPT extension up to 90 days before your current OPT ends. You cannot apply once your 12-month OPT expires or during the 60-day grace period. Your complete OPT extension application must be received by USCIS before the expiration of your initial 12 months of OPT.

What happens when OPT expires?

Renewing Your U.S. Visa While on OPT Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months into the future) Most Recent Form I-20 showing OPT approval dates and updated employer information (with valid travel signature not more than 6 months old) Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Job Offer Letter.

Can OPT be extended?

Students on post-completion OPT may have up to 90 days of unemployment. The 90 days start counting from your approved OPT/EAD start date (not the recommended start date nor the program end date on your I-20) and are cumulative. If you accumulate 90 days or more of unemployment, you are in violation of your F-1 status.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

The 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an extension of the standard 12 months of OPT that allows certain non-immigrant international students in the United States who have completed a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field to remain in the country and work in their field for an additional 17 months.

Who is required to file 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

Students who have completed a degree in a STEM field and are currently on a valid period of standard 12-month OPT are required to file for the 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training to extend their work authorization.

How to fill out 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

To fill out the application for the 17 Month Extension of OPT, applicants must complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and include the necessary supporting documents, such as proof of STEM degree, previous OPT authorization, and a copy of the form I-20 issued by their school.

What is the purpose of 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

The purpose of the 17 Month Extension of OPT is to provide additional employment opportunities for international students with STEM degrees, allowing them to gain practical experience in their field, contribute to the U.S. economy, and potentially transition to a longer-term employment visa.

What information must be reported on 17 Month Extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

During the 17 Month Extension of OPT, students must report any changes in their address, employment status, or employer details to their designated school official (DSO) and update their SEVIS record accordingly.