STEM OPT Extension

You must be in valid F-1 status and currently working on post-completion OPT. Your degree must be in an eligible STEM field. You must have a paid job offer that meets the following requirements:

The job is with an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program.
The job offers at least 20 hours of work per week
The job will provide formal training and learning objectives directly related to your qualifying STEM degree as OPT STEM Extension is an F-1 student benefit
Be able to complete the I-983 Training Plan with your employer.

Employment requirements during the 24-month STEM Extension

You must work at least 20 hours each week for an employer that participates in the E-Verify program and agrees to follow all the employer requirements in the 24-month STEM rule.

Unlike the 12 month OPT, volunteer/unpaid work or self-employment is not permitted under the 24 month OPT STEM Extension regulation.

Please review the STEM OPT HUB for the most up-to-date information on the STEM Extension requirements.

NOTICE: STEM OPT Extension and Staffing/Temporary Agencies

While being employed by a staffing/temporary agency is allowed for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), there are different guidelines for students applying for the STEM OPT Extension. If you are currently on Post-Completion OPT, employed by a staffing/temporary agency and applying for the STEM OPT Extension, please make sure you read through the following article from the Department of Homeland Security Study in the States website.

“If a student uses a temporary or staffing agency to place them in a training opportunity, the agency cannot complete and sign the Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. Only the E-verified employer that provides the actual training relevant to the student’s qualifying STEM degree is authorized to sign and complete the Form I-983."

In addition- there is more information regarding “The Employer’s Training Obligation: Staffing and Temporary Agency” on the USCIS website.

STEM OPT Application Procedures

STEP ONE: Gather Documents Required for the online I-765 Evidence Section:

1. One new, passport-style color photo

2. Copy of valid passport page

3. Copy of visa

4. Copy of I-94 record (get it here)

5. Copy of current, unexpired EAD card (front & back)

6. Copy of your MNSU diploma

7. Copy of transcripts issued by MNSU showing graduation date and degree (unofficial transcripts is okay)

Note: You will receive an updated I-20 showing “STEM OPT requested” after you complete Steps 2-3.

STEP TWO: Complete Form I-983 with Your Employer

Download Form I-983 Training Plan and instructions.
Reference the KIC I-983 example

Note: This form is not uploaded to USCIS but must be on file with the Kearney Center before your updated I-20 is issued.

STEP THREE: Submit STEM OPT Extention Request via KIC portal

Once you submit this request, you will need to pay the $300 processing fee via E-services. This fee will generate in E-services 1-2 days after you've submitted your STEM OPT Extension Request

STEP FOUR: Create USCIS Account & Start Draft of I-765

Follow the I-765 filing instructions
Do NOT submit until a KIC advisor reviews your application and you have your updated I-20.

STEP FIVE: Review with your KIC Advisor

After receiving your STEM OPT I-20, schedule a meeting with your KIC advisor via Navigate360
Share your screen to review your I-765 draft

STEP SIX: Submit & Pay USCIS Filing Fee

View the filing fee here
After review, digitally sign and submit your Form I-765 (see Steps 6–8 for reference)

STEP SEVEN: After Filing

Review the KIC STEM OPT Reporting Requirements page.