Get the free STEM OPT Extension Guidelines

Guidelines for F-1 students at UCLA on eligibility, application procedures, and requirements for the 24-month STEM OPT Extension.

How to fill out stem opt extension guidelines

How to fill out STEM OPT Extension Guidelines

1. Review the eligibility requirements for STEM OPT Extension.
2. Complete the Form I-765 application for employment authorization.
3. Gather necessary documents, including your current Form I-20, photocopies of your passport, visa, and prior EAD cards.
4. Prepare a copy of your job offer letter from an employer in an eligible STEM field.
5. Obtain the signature of your Designated School Official (DSO) on the Form I-20.
6. Prepare your application package, ensuring all forms and documents are included.
7. Submit your application package by mail to the appropriate USCIS address.
8. Track the status of your application through the USCIS online portal.

Who needs STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

1. International students on F-1 visas who have completed a degree in an eligible STEM field.
2. Students seeking an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) under the STEM category.
3. Employers of international students wishing to retain their services for an additional 24 months.

People Also Ask about

Does stem OPT extension get rejected?

Employer Eligibility The STEM OPT extension requires the student's employer to join the E-Verify program. If your employer does not meet this requirement, your application will be denied.

Is there a 60 day grace period for stem OPT?

the end of my OPT / STEM OPT period? If you have not exceeded the cumulative limits on unemployment during your post-completion OPT (90 days), or STEM OPT (150 days), you receive a 60-day grace period after the OPT / STEM OPT end date. If you exceed the limits on unemployment, you do not receive a 60-day grace period.

Does stem OPT expire?

The 24-Month STEM OPT period represents a continuation of your current F-1 status. You must stop your employment when the end date on the EAD card is reached, but may remain in the US for a 60-day grace period after the end date on your EAD card.

Can we extend our OPT?

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.

How long does it take for a stem OPT extension to be approved?

You can expect STEM OPT to take 3-4 months for approval. During this time, you may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for additional information. You should provide OIA with the completed application for initial processing at least two weeks prior to the day you plan to mail your materials to USCIS.

Can you extend your stem OPT?

DHS grants STEM OPT extensions to eligible F-1 students who are currently in a period of post-completion OPT once per degree level (i.e., bachelor's, master's or doctorate). A student may participate twice in the STEM OPT extension over the course of their academic career.

Does stem OPT extension get rejected?

Employer Eligibility The STEM OPT extension requires the student's employer to join the E-Verify program. If your employer does not meet this requirement, your application will be denied.

How long can I be on stem OPT?

The STEM OPT extension 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.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

STEM OPT Extension Guidelines refer to the regulations and procedures that allow eligible F-1 students who have completed a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) for an additional 24 months.

Who is required to file STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

Students on F-1 visas who have completed a degree in a STEM field, and are currently on post-completion OPT, are required to file the STEM OPT Extension Guidelines to apply for the 24-month extension.

How to fill out STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

To fill out the STEM OPT Extension Guidelines, students must complete Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization, along with providing necessary documentation such as proof of degree, employment information, and a training plan (Form I-983).

What is the purpose of STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

The purpose of the STEM OPT Extension Guidelines is to provide eligible F-1 students an opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study for an extended period, fostering workforce development in STEM industries.

What information must be reported on STEM OPT Extension Guidelines?

Students must report information such as their personal details, SEVIS ID, degree information, employer details, job responsibilities, and a training plan that outlines how the employment relates to their degree.