For F-1 international students in the United States, gaining practical work experience related to their field of study is essential. Two primary avenues facilitate this: Optional Practical Training (OPT) and the STEM OPT Extension. While both allow students to work, they differ in eligibility, duration, employer requirements, and reporting obligations.
1. Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Eligibility:
- Available to F-1 students in any field of study who have completed at least one academic year at a SEVP-certified institution.
- It can be used before graduation (Pre-Completion OPT) or after graduation (Post-Completion OPT).
Duration:
- Maximum 12 months of work authorization.
- If Pre-Completion OPT is used, it is deducted from the 12-month limit.
Application Process:
- Get a recommendation from your DSO.
- File Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with USCIS.
- Pay the filing fee.
Employment Requirements:
- The job must be directly related to the student’s field of study.
- Work can be paid or unpaid, but at least 20 hours per week.
Unemployment Allowance:
- Students are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment during the 12-month OPT period.
2. STEM OPT Extension
Eligibility:
- Available to F-1 students with a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field.
- Students must be on active OPT and apply before their OPT expires.
- The employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
Duration:
- Extends work authorization for an additional 24 months, allowing a total of 36 months of OPT for STEM graduates.
Application Process:
- Submit Form I-765 before OPT expiration.
- Complete Form I-983 (Training Plan) with your employer.
- Work with an E-Verify employer and comply with training requirements.
Employment Requirements:
- Must be in a STEM-related job.
- The employer must provide formal training and mentorship.
- Work must be paid and at least 20 hours per week.
Reporting Requirements:
- Students must report every six months to confirm employment details.
- Must submit annual self-evaluations detailing progress and compliance with the training plan.
Unemployment Allowance:
- Students on STEM OPT receive an additional 60 days of unemployment, totaling 150 days combined with the initial OPT period.
3. Key Differences Between OPT and STEM OPT Extension
4. Can You Apply for STEM OPT More Than Once?
Yes! You are allowed two lifetime STEM OPT Extensions, but each must be based on a higher qualifying STEM degree. If you complete another STEM degree at a higher level, you may qualify for another STEM OPT Extension.
5. Conclusion
Understanding the differences between OPT and STEM OPT Extension is crucial for F-1 students planning to work in the U.S. after graduation.
✔ OPT provides 12 months of work authorization for all students, while STEM OPT extends this by 24 months for STEM graduates.
✔ STEM OPT includes additional employer requirements, bi-annual reporting, and training plans.
✔ Unemployment allowances differ, with 90 days for OPT and 150 days for STEM OPT students.
Students should work closely with their DSO and employer to ensure compliance with all SEVP and USCIS regulations.
People Also Ask (PAA)
1. What is the main difference between OPT and STEM OPT Extension?
OPT is available to all F-1 students for 12 months, while STEM OPT provides an additional 24 months for STEM graduates with extra employer and reporting requirements.
2. Can I apply for STEM OPT after my initial OPT expires?
No, you must apply for STEM OPT before your initial 12-month OPT period ends.
3. Is E-Verify required for STEM OPT?
Yes, E-Verify is mandatory for STEM OPT employers but not required for regular OPT.
4. Can I work for multiple employers on STEM OPT?
Yes, but each employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and provide a training plan (Form I-983).
5. How many times can I apply for the STEM OPT Extension?
You can apply twice in your lifetime, provided each extension is based on a higher STEM degree.
6. Can I change employers while on STEM OPT?
Yes, but your new employer must be in E-Verify, and you must submit a new Form I-983.
7. What happens if I exceed my unemployment period on STEM OPT?
If you exceed 150 days of unemployment (90 from OPT + 60 from STEM OPT), you lose legal status and must take action immediately.
8. Can I travel while my STEM OPT application is pending?
It is risky to travel after OPT expires while STEM OPT is pending. If you must travel, carry proof of your STEM OPT application receipt.
9. What is the reporting requirement for STEM OPT?
STEM OPT students must report:
- Every 6 months to verify employment status.
- Annual self-evaluations of training progress (Form I-983).
10. Can I apply for a Green Card while on STEM OPT?
Yes, many students transition from STEM OPT to H-1B and eventually to a Green Card through employer sponsorship.
By understanding OPT and STEM OPT regulations, international students can make informed career decisions and maximize their work authorization opportunities in the U.S.
