STEM OPT 24-Month Extension
Two more years of F-1 work authorization — and two or three shots at the H-1B lottery.
Overview
Graduates with qualifying STEM degrees can extend post-completion OPT by 24 months — up to three years total. The employer must be E-Verify enrolled, and the student and employer must execute and follow a formal I-983 training plan with reporting obligations.
Who May Qualify
- A qualifying STEM degree (CIP-code based)
- An E-Verify enrolled employer
- A bona fide employer-employee relationship
- A completed Form I-983 training plan
How We Help
- Eligibility and CIP-code analysis
- I-983 training plans that satisfy SEVP and the real workplace
- Extension filings, reporting compliance, and employer site-visit preparation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a previous degree?
Yes — a prior qualifying STEM degree can support the extension even if your most recent degree is not STEM.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page. Immigration law is complex and fact-specific — please consult a qualified immigration attorney about your individual situation.