STEM OPT Extension
Not Legal Advice
This content is for informational purposes only and is sourced from official US government websites (USCIS, ICE). Immigration rules are subject to change. Always consult your university's Designated School Official (DSO) or a qualified immigration attorney.
1Eligibility Snapshot
E-Verify Employer
Your employer MUST be enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify program.
STEM Degree
Your degree must be on the official DHS STEM Designated Degree list.
+24 Months
Adds 24 months to your initial 12 months (Total 36 months).
2Mandatory Reporting Clock
You must submit reports to your DSO at these exact intervals. Missing a report can terminate your status.
Validation
Confirm personal & job info.
Self-Evaluation
Submit I-983 'Evaluation on Student Progress'.
Validation
Confirm personal & job info.
Final Evaluation
Submit I-983 'Final Evaluation'.
3Form I-983 Masterclass (Section 5)
The I-983 "Section 5: Training Plan" is the most critical part of your application. It must clearly demonstrate the connection between your job and your STEM degree. Avoid generic HR job descriptions.
Student Role
Describe *what* you actually do. Focus on technologies, tools, and processes.
"I will use Python and TensorFlow to build..." instead of "I will work on AI."
Goals & Objectives
List specific skills you will acquire. Connect them directly to course codes or degree concepts.
"Apply Machine Learning concepts (CS-504) to real-world data sets..."
Employer Oversight
How will your supervisor actually supervise? Be specific.
"Weekly 1:1 code reviews, daily stand-ups, and quarterly performance documentation."
Measures of Performance
How is "success" defined?
"Successful deployment of API modules and completion of Agile sprint tickets."
4Material Changes: When to Update I-983?
You must report "Material Changes" to your DSO within 10 days by submitting a modified I-983. Failure to do so is a violation of status.
5Unemployment Allowance
150 Days Total
Your unemployment allowance aggregates. You get an extra 60 days when STEM OPT starts.