STEM OPT Extension - Application Guide

This article outlines the key steps for the STEM OPT Extension and lists the required materials.

1. Prepare Form I-983 (Training Plan for STEM OPT Students) with Your Employer

• You should complete Sections 1 and 2 of Form I-983, which ask about student information. The start date should be the day after your initial OPT expires, and the end date should be 24 months after the start date.

• Sections 3 and 4 are about employer information and should be filled out by your employer.

• Section 5, which is about your training plan, should be completed by both you and your employer. The content should include a description of your job position and its connection to your STEM degree and job skills.

• Section 6 is for the employer’s signature.

2. Submit the STEM OPT Extension Application to Your School and Obtain a New I-20

You should submit the following materials:

• Completed Form I-983

• OPT EAD card

• Transcripts

3. Apply for the OPT Extension with USCIS Using the New I-20

You will need to submit the following materials:

• Original Copy of Form I-765

• Original Copy of Form G-1145

• Copy of the new I-20 for STEM OPT Extension

• Copies of all previous I-20s

• Copy of the biographical page of your passport

• Copy of the latest F-1 visa stamp or change of status approval notice

• Copy of I-94

• Copies of the front and back of the previous EAD cards

• Proof of payment of the application fee ($470 for online applications; $520 for mail-in applications)

• Passport-Style photos (see: Requirements)

• Copies of official transcripts

• E-Verify employer information

• A letter from the employer detailing job responsibilities and employment type (full-time or part-time)