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Immigration Services

24-Month OPT STEM Extension

The STEM OPT Extension is a 24-month extension of post-completion OPT for F-1 students with eligible STEM degrees. This extension allows additional practical training in a position directly related to your field of study.

You must apply before your initial OPT ends — STEM extensions are not available during the 60-day grace period following OPT.

OPT STEM Extension Overview

Virtual STEM Extension Workshops

Join International Services to learn about the STEM OPT process, reporting requirements, and how to maintain status. Workshops are held on Zoom and begin promptly at the listed time.

Upcoming Sessions:
TBD

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT Extension, you must:

  • Be in active F-1 status and currently on post-completion OPT
  • Apply before your post-completion OPT end date (up to 90 days in advance)
  • Have a degree in a STEM-eligible field from a SEVP-certified U.S. institution earned within the past 10 years — and not previously used for STEM OPT
  • OR be enrolled in a STEM-eligible Master’s or Ph.D. program and have completed all coursework except thesis/dissertation
  • Be employed by a qualifying employer who:
    • Is enrolled in E-Verify
    • Offers at least 20 hours/week of employment
    • Pays comparable wages to similar U.S. workers
    • Completes and follows a formal training plan (Form I-983)

How to Apply

  • Complete Form I-983 with your employer
    • Follow step-by-step instructions
    • Use the following DSO info on the I-983:
      Clemson University | is@clemson.edu | 864-656-3614 | 108 Long Hall
    • Staffing agency? See SEVP guidance
    • Evaluations on p.5 are due during the STEM extension (see below)
  • Submit the Request for OPT STEM Extension in the iStart Student Portal

    Upload:

    • Completed I-983
    • $200 STEM OPT Extension Fee receipt
    • Employer information
  • Receive your updated I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation
    • Processing time: 5 business days
    • You’ll be notified by email
  • Submit your application to USCIS within 60 days of your new I-20
    • Mail the application to the correct USCIS Service Center (addresses recently changed)
    • Include:
      • I-765 with hand-signed black ink signature
      • G-1145 for e-notification (optional)
      • OPT STEM I-20 (issued within past 60 days)
      • Copy of degree (transcript or diploma)
      • Copy of I-94
      • Passport and visa (or proof of Canadian citizenship)
      • Two U.S. passport-style photos (name + I-94 number on back)
      • Filing fee (check/money order to U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
      • Copy of OPT EAD card
      • Job offer letter and proof of current/previous employment (e.g., pay stubs or employer letters)
  • Continue working while STEM is pending
    • If USCIS receives your application before your OPT ends, you may continue working up to 180 days while your STEM application is pending
    • Many employers will request your USCIS receipt notice

Reporting Requirements

Ongoing Reporting

You must update your address, employment info, and training plan via the 24-Month STEM OPT Employment Update e-form in iStart within 10 days of any changes.

SEVIS Validation (Every 6 Months)

You must confirm your employer and contact information every 6 months, even if nothing has changed. Submit validations through the STEM OPT Employment Update e-form.

Evaluations (Form I-983 Page 5)

  • Midpoint Evaluation: Due 12 months after STEM OPT start
  • Final Evaluation: Due at the end of your employment or at the 24-month mark Submit each evaluation and update your employer info via the STEM OPT Employment Update e-form.

Material Changes to I-983

Submit a revised Form I-983 if your job duties, supervisor, worksite, hours, or employer change significantly. Upload the new form via the STEM OPT Employment Update e-form within 10 days.

Changing Employers

Before changing employers:

  • Ensure the new job meets STEM OPT requirements
  • Complete your final evaluation with your current employer
  • Submit a new I-983 and update employment info via the STEM OPT Employment Update e-form

If your STEM application is still pending:

Changing employers is risky. If you must change:

  • Update your employment via the e-form
  • Receive an updated I-20
  • Send a letter and new I-20 to USCIS referencing your receipt number

Unemployment Limits

STEM OPT students are allowed up to 150 days of unemployment total:

  • 90 days during post-completion OPT
  • +60 additional days during STEM OPT

Exceeding these limits will terminate your F-1 status. You must depart the U.S. immediately if over the limit to avoid visa consequences.

Additional Resources

Other Options

Not eligible for STEM OPT? Talk to your employer about other visa options, like the H-1B visa program.