STEM Extension

Bachelor's, master's or doctoral students who receive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degrees, who apply in a timely manner, may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension of their 12-month Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (Post-OPT). A degree's STEM eligibility is based on its CIP code. The Department of Homeland Security provides a list of CIP Codes (pdf) for the acceptable STEM fields.

Use this  planning tool for students on post-completion optional practical training (OPT) who want to file for a 24-month OPT extension  based on a degree in science, engineering, technology, or mathematics - STEM Planning Tool.

Please navigate through the following web pages to read about the STEM Extension eligibility requirements, how to apply, reporting requirements, and more.