What is the meaning of STEM OPT?
STEM OPT stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Optional Practical Training.” It is an extension of the regular Optional Practical Training (OPT) program available to international students in the United States who have completed a degree in a STEM field. The STEM OPT extension allows eligible students to extend their post-completion OPT for an additional 24 months, making it a total of up to 36 months of practical training after completing their degree.
During the STEM OPT period, students can work for employers in their field of study, gaining valuable work experience and contributing to the U.S. workforce. This extension aims to provide an opportunity for STEM graduates to further enhance their skills and contribute to innovative industries while remaining in the United States.
To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, students must have completed a degree in a qualifying STEM field from an accredited U.S. institution and secure employment with an E-Verify employer. Additionally, they need to work closely with their Designated School Official (DSO) and follow specific reporting requirements throughout the extension period.
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Who are eligible for STEM OPT?
Eligibility for STEM OPT (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Optional Practical Training) in the United States is determined by specific criteria set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Qualifying Degree: The individual must have completed a degree in a qualifying STEM field from an accredited U.S. institution. The degree should be a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
- Participation in Standard OPT: The individual must have previously been granted and completed a period of regular Optional Practical Training (OPT). This initial OPT period must be directly related to the STEM field of study.
- Employment Offer: The individual must have a bona fide job offer from an employer that is registered with the E-Verify program. The employment must be directly related to the individual’s STEM field of study.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The individual must have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by USCIS that includes the STEM OPT extension period.
- Maintaining Status: The individual must have maintained valid F-1 student status at the time of application and throughout the STEM OPT period. This includes maintaining a full course of study, complying with reporting requirements, and not accruing an excessive amount of unemployment time.
- Training Plan: The individual and their employer must complete and submit Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, which outlines the details of the practical training opportunity.
- Reporting Obligations: The individual must report any changes in employment, address, or other relevant information to their Designated School Official (DSO) and update their SEVIS record accordingly.
- Extension Limit: The individual can only apply for the STEM OPT extension once per degree level. If they have completed multiple STEM degrees, they can apply for the extension for each degree, but only once per degree level.
It’s important to note that eligibility criteria may change over time, so it’s recommended to check the official USCIS website or consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding STEM OPT eligibility and application procedures.
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