STEM OPT Extension
Students who graduate in certain Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics majors might be eligible to extend the 12-month Optional Practical Training period for an additional 24 months.
Before you apply for STEM OPT with USCIS:- DO NOT submit your STEM OPT application to USCIS until you complete OPT-STEM Extension Request AND you receive your STEM OPT I-20 from the ISS Office. |
Eligibility
• You must currently be completing Post-Completion OPT
• You cannot exceed your 90 days unemployment during Post-Completion OPT
• You have earned qualifying STEM degree (STEM Designated Degree Program list)
• Employment must be related to your STEM major/ field of study
• Any employer must have an E-Verify number
• You must work 20 hours or more (full-time)
• Employment must be paid.
• You must submit the completed Form I-983 “TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS” at the time of application.
Required Materials
• Form I-983 Training Plan for Stem OPT Students Pages 1 – 4, completed by student and employer
• Copy of your OPT I-20.
• Copies of your passport and visa information page and most recent I-94 record.
• Completed USCIS Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization. You can download the most current form from the USCIS website.
• Copy of both sides of any previously issued EAD cards
• Copy of your STEM diploma
• Copy of Official SUNY New Paltz transcript (Request SUNY New Paltz transcript)
• Upload STEM OPT Administration Fee* Receipt
Procedure
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Log in to your My OPT Profile
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Click on “2. Requests.”
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Under “What Can We Help You With”, see your request options, and click on the STEM OPT Extension Request.
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You will need to upload all required documents listed above.
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Submit
You will receive an email from the International Student Services office once your STEM OPT I-20 has been issued.
Special Considerations
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Ensure your address is correct and up to date in the International Student Platform:
To view your address: From the Personal & Program Page >> Contact Information >> US Physical Address>> -
You can apply for the STEM extension as early as 90 days before your current OPT expires. This request is available in your MY OPT Profile 100 days prior to your OPT end date.
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Once you receive your STEM OPT I-20, please make sure to follow the instructions provided with your I-20 to submit your application to USCIS within 60 days,
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As long as your application is received by the USCIS before your OPT expires, you can work up to 180 days after your OPT expiration date while your application is pending.
To begin this request, login here: My OPT Profile
International Student Services:
E-mail: international@newpaltz.edu
Phone: +1-845-257-3595
