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STEM Extensions

STEM Extension
Application Instructions

Applying for the STEM OPT extension is similar to the initial application:

1.) Review the STEM Extension Application Guide [pdf].

2.) Submit the STEM Extension Request Form [doc] to Berkeley International Office. This is a fillable form. Complete it online and print out to turn in (your I-20 will be ready in three business days).

3.) Mail your application to USCIS at the address in your region (the Application Guide includes USCIS address information).

Students who have received a U.S. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in certain STEM majors (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), are eligible for a one-time, 17-month extension of post-completion OPT (for a total eligibility of up to 29 months).  To be eligible for the STEM extension, the following conditions must be met:

  • The student must have completed certain science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degrees. If you have a double major, you will qualify if one of the degrees is a STEM major.  
  • The student must be authorized for OPT at the time of the extension application and working in a job or have a job offer related to his or her field of study.
  • The extension must be based on the same degree as the post-completion OPT.
  • At the time of application for the OPT extension, the student’s employer (or prospective employer) must be registered with and participating in the USCIS’ E-Verify employment verification program.   
  • The student must not have exceeded 90 days of unemployment in the initial 12-month period of OPT.
  • Only one 17-month STEM extension is granted per lifetime regardless of additional degrees awarded or level of degrees.

What is E-Verify?

E-Verify is an Internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their newly hired employees.  A list of employers who have self-reported participation in E-Verify is maintained by USCIS but students are advised to confirm with employers directly regarding eligiblity.  An employer's participation in E-Verify is voluntary and is currently free to employers.  If your company wants to participate in E-Verify, see the DHS web site. 

When To Apply for the STEM Extension

USCIS must receive your application before the expiration date of your EAD, but no earlier than 120 days before the expiration date. USCIS recommends that students apply within 90 and 120 days of the expiration date of the current OPT. Timely applications will automatically extend the 12-month OPT work authorization up to 180 days until you receive the 17-month OPT Extension EAD.