F1/OPT/Extension

1. What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows foreign students to study in the United States.
It is designed for individuals enrolled in academic or language training programs at U.S. universities,
colleges, or other accredited educational institutions. F-1 students are allowed to stay in the U.S. for
the length of their program, plus any authorized practical training and a short grace period after their
studies end.

2. What is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a period of temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1
student’s major field of study. Eligible students who have maintained their F-1 status for at least one
academic year may apply to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months. OPT is designed to give students
real-world, hands-on experience that complements what they learned in school.

3. What is the OPT Extension (STEM OPT)?

The OPT Extension, often called STEM OPT, allows certain F-1 students to extend their practical training beyond the initial 12-month OPT period. Students who completed a qualifying STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degree may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension.

This means eligible STEM students can work in the U.S. for up to 36 months in total (12 months of initial OPT + 24 months of STEM OPT Extension). This longer period gives students more time to grow their skills, build a professional network, and contribute to the U.S. workforce in their specialized fields.

4. Who May Apply for the OPT Extension?

To qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT Extension, an F-1 student generally must meet the following:

• STEM degree – You must have earned a degree in a field on the U.S. government’s designated STEM list.
• E-Verify employer – Your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program, which allows businesses to confirm work authorization for new hires.
• Completion of initial 12-month OPT – You must be in a valid period of post-completion OPT and apply before it expires.
• Timely application to USCIS – You must file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, together with required supporting documents, before your initial OPT period ends.

By meeting these requirements, F-1 STEM graduates can extend their time in the U.S., gain deeper work experience, and strengthen their long-term career opportunities.