Applying for OPT 24-Month STEM Extension

There are now two ways to file a STEM Extension application: Filing an I-765 Online OR Mailing in a paper I-765 application. After the preliminary information directly below please see the newer online process is below and following that the traditional process for filing by mail.  Please meet with an ISSS advisor during a Zoom or in-person advising session if you have questions about either of these filing options.

Notice Regarding OPT Denials and USCIS

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may increase the denial of applications submitted to them that are missing application material or have forms that are not filled out completely and accurately. Very carefully review your forms I-765, I-983, and supporting documentation before you submit electronically or mail your application to avoid having your application denied. Make sure you do not officially submit an application until you have first received from an ISSS advisor an update I-20 that includes STEM extension information on the 2nd page.  You will not receive a refund from USCIS if a STEM application is submitted incorrectly or is denied.

What Do I Need to Know Before I Apply for the OPT Extension?

Who is Eligible for an OPT Extension?

The extension is available only to F-1 students currently authorized for and actively participating in the initial period of 12-month OPT who meet very specific criteria. These will be explained in further detail on this website:

  • Student must be currently participating in 12-month OPT based on a bachelor's degree or higher.
  • Degree must be in a specific STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) areas.
  • Degree must have been earned from a U.S. institution accredited by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Completed extension application must be received by USCIS before the current 12-month OPT expires.
  • Must be working for an employer participating in E-Verify.
  • Student cannot have been authorized for more than one STEM extension previously.
  • Student has accrued fewer than 90 days of unemployment time during the current period of OPT.

How Do I Know if My Degree Program Qualifies?

The Department of Homeland Security publishes a "STEM Designated Program Degree" list found on their Study In the States STEM OPT Hub site. These six-digit codes are called CIP (Classification of Instructional Program) codes, and reflect the only majors eligible for a STEM extension.

Every major at the University of Iowa has a CIP code assigned. You can view the CIP code for your degree program by looking at the first page of your I-20, halfway down the form. It will list the name of your area (this is the name associated with the CIP code, and does not necessarily match the University of Iowa name for that program), such as "52.1304 Actuarial Science." If your CIP code is on the list, then you are eligible to apply for the extension. If it is not there, you are not eligible and there is nothing ISSS or the University of Iowa can do to assist you.

If you happen to have a third major that does not appear on the I-20 (it can only print two) then please consult an ISSS advisor and we can tell you what the CIP code for that additional major is. Remember that certificates, minors, and non-degree study are not eligible for OPT/STEM.

What About a Degree I Already Earned?

The new rule does permit eligibility for degrees previously earned.

  • For example, this could mean that a student completes regular 12-month OPT based on a degree in Art that they just earned. The Art degree is not eligible for a STEM extension, but the student also has a previous degree in Actuarial Science, which IS eligible. As long as the work being done during the STEM extension employment is directly related to Actuarial Science, then the student may be able to apply for the STEM extension based on that prior Actuarial Science degree instead of the recent Art degree.

This is a new provision that was never included in OPT before, so can be a little complex. Some things to keep in mind:

  • The prior degree must have been conferred within the 10 years preceding the date the DSO recommends the OPT STEM extension.
  • You must specify in the OPT STEM application that you are basing the application on a previously earned degree.
  • The degree must have been earned from an accredited and SEVIS-approved U.S. school. Degrees earned outside the U.S., including from U.S. satellite campuses in other countries, cannot be accepted. ISSS will verify accreditation status as part of the OPT STEM application process.
  • The degree must be bachelor's level or higher.
  • The major CIP code must be on the current STEM Designated Degree Program list mentioned above. It may be necessary for ISSS to communicate with your previous school in order to get the CIP code for that program.

What Types of Employment Are Not Permitted?

  • Self-employment and sole proprietorship
  • Volunteer/unpaid positions
  • Brief employment with multiple employers, such as occurs through contracting (it may be acceptable to work for up to two employers at the same time, providing both meet the OPT STEM extension criteria and an I-983 is filed for each)
  • Working for temp or placement agencies or consulting firms
  • Students cannot engage in OPT STEM extension employment and list another student currently on OPT or STEM OPT as supervisor/employer.
  • In order to qualify for OPT STEM extension, the student must be a “bona fide” and direct employee of the employer who completes the I-983

When Should I Apply for the OPT Extension?

You may apply for your OPT extension up to 90 days before your current OPT ends. You cannot apply once your 12-month OPT expires or during the 60-day grace period. Your complete OPT extension application must be received by USCIS before the expiration of your initial 12 months of OPT.

How Many Times Can I Get a STEM Extension?

Twice if your second application is based on earning a new degree at a higher level. You must first do a full year of 12-month OPT, then apply for the STEM extension.

  • For example, a student may earn a bachelor's degree and do 12 months of OPT, then do 24 months of STEM OPT. That student may then go back to school and do a master's degree, do another 12 months of OPT, and then do a second period of STEM OPT. That student is then no longer eligible for any more STEM OPT, even if they go on to do a PhD later (they COULD do 12 more months of regular 12-month OPT after the PhD, but no more STEM).

You cannot do the 24-month STEM extensions back to back (in consecutive periods of time).

  • For example, you cannot do one period of 24-month OPT and then immediately apply for the second period of 24-month OPT. You must go back to school and receive a new degree at a higher level, and do another period of 12-month OPT
  • For students who use a previously earned degree for the OPT STEM extension, you cannot "double dip" by basing another STEM extension on the same degree twice.
  • For example, if you do one period of OPT STEM based on a prior degree, then go back to school and earn a higher degree and do another year of OPT, you cannot base the second STEM application on that same previous degree.

Information Your Employer Will Need to Know

We strongly suggest you share the Employer FAQ with your employer so that they can fully prepare for their role in your OPT STEM extension process and how to fill out their portions of the form I-983. If you will be working for the University of Iowa, it also includes specific information on how to list the UI information on the I-983. If your employer still has questions or concerns, you may ask them to contact ISSS at isss@uiowa.edu.

What Responsibilities Will My Employer Have?

The new 24-month rule carries new obligations for employers, including:

  • Working with you to complete the Form I-983/Training Plan
  • Ensuring that you are paid a proper wage commensurate with U.S. workers who hold the same or similar positions
  • Have the appropriate resources and knowledgeable/experienced staff who can provide the needed supervision and guidance to follow the Training Plan
  • Ensure your hiring under OPT STEM is not displacing any U.S. workers
  • Communicate significant changes to your job description or training plan, or early termination of your work within 5 days to ISSS
  • Participate in two annual reviews of your performance and how well you are following the goals and objectives of the Training Plan
  • Participate in E-Verify

What is E-Verify?

E-Verify is a free and simple to use Web-based system that electronically verifies the employment eligibility of newly hired employees. E-Verify is a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) oversees the program.

E-Verify works by allowing participating employers to electronically compare employee information taken from the Form I-9 (the paper-based employee eligibility verification form used for all new hires) against more than 425 million records in SSA's database and more than 60 million records in DHS immigration databases. Results are returned in seconds.

How Can My Employer Sign Up?

Your employer should go to E-Verify (link is external)

An employer's participation in E-Verify is voluntary and is currently free to employers. To participate, an employer must register online and accept the electronic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that details the responsibilities of SSA, DHS, and the employer.

Can I Still Get an Extension if My Employer Does Not Sign Up for E-Verify?

No. USCIS will not approve any extension applications where the employer is not participating in E-Verify.

Note to University of Iowa employees: Please seek E-Verify information from your department’s Human Resources representative. ISSS cannot provide this number.

Caution Regarding Employment with Staffing, Temp Agencies, or Consulting Firms

In January 2018 USCIS issued updated guidance on determining whether a STEM OPT student can work for a staffing, temp agency, or consulting firm. This issue can be very complex and confusing, and ISSS may not be able to provide definite answers. Detailed information is on the Employers FAQ website.

How do I complete the STEM I-765 through the online application process?

The instructions below will help clarify how you should fill out the form.

  • Review these directions which will help to answer certain questions in the online STEM I-765 process. Do not proceed to full submission of an online application until you have followed the directions below and received an updated STEM OPT I-20 from the ISSS.
  • Complete form I-983 in collaboration with your employer.
  • Login to your iHawk account (click the blue login button) using your HawkID and password. Go to "F-1 Practical Training" and complete the e-form request "Optional Practical Training (OPT) 24 Month Request"
  • After submission of your e-form request, visit with an ISSS advisor during advising hours. If there are no questions regarding your request, an ISSS advisor will issue you an updated STEM OPT I-20 which you can use to complete the USCIS online application process.

How should I fill out the STEM I-765 for filing in paper format by mail?

The instructions below will help clarify how you should fill out certain parts of the form. For full instructions, see the "Instructions for Form I-765" on the I-765 application website. Check the form I-765 edition in the bottom left corner of form and complete the current edition.

Mailing your Application to USCIS

Send the following documentation to USCIS to apply for OPT extension, arranged in the order listed below:

Where to Mail:

The mailing address to which OPT/STEM OPT should be sent is the Chicago Lockbox address listed under the “Foreign Students” dropdown at this USCIS web site. Please confirm with the ISSS advisor who produces your I-20 that the Chicago Lockbox is still correct before sending the application. We also recommend that you use a form of postal or courier service that offers proof of delivery.

IMPORTANT! Follow the USCIS process to track issuance and delivery of your EAD card.

What Happens After I Mail My OPT 24 Month Application?

Processing Information:

About 3-4 weeks after you mail your application, USCIS will issue the I-797 Notice of Action acknowledging receipt of your application. Remember to keep this letter, since it will contain a special number beginning with letters such as “LIN...” that refers to your specific application. If you do not receive the Notice of Action after 4-5 weeks, please notify ISSS.

You may use the LIN/YSC number to check the status of your application online at https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do. Please note that the website will not give detailed information or an estimate of when your OPT may be approved, it will just tell you if it is received or pending, or approved. Also understand that once it is approved, it can take several days to arrive to the mailing address you provided.

Decision on Your Application:

The average processing time for OPT is currently 3-4 months; it could happen faster or could take longer in individual cases, so apply well in advance. In the very unlikely event that your application cannot be granted, you will receive an explanation for the denial. Likewise, if USCIS wants you to send additional or supporting documentation before they will proceed with your application, they will send a Request for Evidence letter to your home address.

Can I Change Employers Once I Apply for an Extension?

Yes, as long as the new employer is enrolled in E-Verify and the new work relates directly to the degree on which your OPT STEM application is based. You must notify ISSS when this occurs and file a new I-983/Training Plan filled out by you and your new employer. Changing employers without notifying ISSS may result in termination of your status.

What Kind of Job Can I Take?

OPT employment must be directly related to the degree area of study on which your OPT STEM application was based.

Can I Keep Working While Waiting for My OPT Extension Decision?

Students who file an application for the 24-month OPT extension in a timely manner (we recommend 90 days) before their existing OPT expires will be able to continue employment while the extension application is pending until a final decision is made on the I-765 OR for 180 days, whichever comes first.

Travel and OPT Extensions

What if I want to travel outside the U.S. and my OPT card has expired and my OPT extension request is still pending?

If your OPT employment authorization has expired and your STEM extension request is still pending, SEVP issued updated guidance in May 2016 that you are still eligible to travel outside the U.S. You will still need to take your expired EAD card and also obtain a new travel signature from an ISSS advisor before you leave, a letter from your employer indicating you are still employed there, and proof of your OPT STEM extension application.

What if I need to travel outside the U.S. after my OPT is approved?

In order to re-enter the U.S. after you have applied for OPT, you must have a travel signature on your I-20 signed by an ISSS advisor within the last six months, a valid F-1 visa, a valid passport and your EAD card. You should also carry a letter from your employer confirming you are or will be employed there under Optional Practical Training.

Reporting Information to ISSS While on Extended OPT

While on OPT you are still legally required to report certain information to ISSS. Changes to any of the following must be reported within 10 days of the event. To report, use our OPT Report e-form.

NOTE: In March 2018 SEVP made it possible for students to log in directly to the SEVIS system to report updates to your address, telephone, and employer information. For the time being we encourage students to continue to use our Optional Practical Training Reporting Requirement iHawk e-form to update this information in order to avoid conflicting information. Please see our OPT Reporting site for more information.

Validation Reports to ISSS Every 6 Months

Starting from the date your extension begins (i.e. the day after your current 12-month OPT ends) you are required by federal law to “check in” with ISSS every six months (at 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months). These check-ins will be done via iHawk through the submission of the OPT Report e-form, at which time you will provide your legal name, current residential address, current email, your employer’s name, employer’s address, and whether or not you are still currently employed there. You will be sent an automated courtesy reminder to the e-mail address which you have provided ISSS, but should also schedule your own reminders. The check-in must be done even if there are no changes to your situation.

These check-ins are in addition to reporting within 10 days any changes that occur, as detailed in the previous section.

Please be aware that Homeland Security indicates students on extended OPT who fail to submit information within the 6-month check-in period will be viewed as violating status and F-1 status will be terminated. It is your responsibility to remember to do so at the proper time.

Annual Evaluations

You and your employer are required to submit an annual performance evaluation each year. The first evaluation is due 12 months after your OPT STEM start date; and the second is due at the end of your 24-month STEM period. The last two pages of form I-983 will be used for this and should be submitted to ISSS; courtesy email reminders will be sent to the email address you have provided, but you should also schedule your own reminders. Again, failure to submit these evaluations may result in termination of your legal status.

Unemployment and OPT

During post-completion OPT, F-1 status is dependent upon employment. A student authorized for a 24-month extension must work at least 20 hours per week for an E-Verify employer in a position directly related to his or her DHS-approved STEM CIP. Students may not accrue an aggregate of more than 90 cumulative days of unemployment during any post-completion OPT carried out under the initial 12-month post-completion OPT authorization. Students granted a 24-month OPT extension may not accrue an aggregate of more than an additional 60 days of unemployment during the 24-month STEM extension period. If all or part of the 90 days are unused after the 12-month OPT, they may be used during the 24-month extension period as well (therefore a total of up to 150 days may be possible during the 24-month period). If you are unemployed for more than the permitted lengths of time you must consider your OPT to be immediately and automatically canceled and your F-1 status ended.