STEM OPT Policy Update

USCIS recently issued a memo with updated guidance on the timeframe students can be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) if the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It also further defines guidance on school transfers, study and grace periods and more.

About Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Practical training is a type of work program that is available to international students (F1 currently enrolled or completing a degree) related to their major of study. Students must have been enrolled for a minimum of nine months as a student in order to apply for up to 12 months of OPT work authorization. F-1 students can also be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension if they meet the requirements including having a bachelor’s, master’s or doctor degree in the field that qualifies within a STEM field.

Online or distance education lass can be counted towards their term of study (restrictions apply). Moreover, students have the ability to transfer between schools and study abroad. Once the approved study program or OPT ends, students have a 60-day grace period to prepare for departure or transfer.

Learn about F-1 to H-1B Transfer without OPT.

Updated Policy Highlights as of 8/27/2024

• Students may count one class or three credits (or the equivalent) during each term or semester toward a full course of study if the class is taken online or through distance learning not requiring physical attendance for any purpose integral to completion of the class.
• Students may transfer between SEVP-certified schools at the same educational level or move between educational levels.
• During the 60-day grace period following an authorized period of post-completion of OPT, students may change their education level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or file an application or petition with USCIS to change to another.
• Students may be eligible for post-completion OPT after completion of an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.
• Corrects the time period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions and
  makes other technical corrections.
• Clarifies that a student enrolled in an ICE SEVP-certified school during a study abroad
  program may remain active in SEVIS if the study abroad program lasts less than 5 months, but
  the student will need a new Form I-20 if the program lasts longer than 5 months.