The STEM OPT extension is one of the most valuable opportunities for international graduates in the United States. It gives eligible students an additional 24 months of work authorisation after the initial 12-month OPT period. This extra time can help you deepen your skills, gain meaningful industry experience and take additional steps toward longer-term employment pathways.

The benefits are significant — but so are the rules. The STEM extension has strict deadlines, documentation requirements and responsibilities for both you and your employer. Understanding these details early can make your application smoother and help you stay confidently focused on your career goals.

This 2026 guide breaks everything down clearly and practically, from eligibility and timeline steps to employer rules, travel guidance and the most common mistakes that trigger delays.

What the STEM OPT extension actually is

STEM OPT is a 24-month extension of Optional Practical Training for F-1 students who:

• Hold a STEM degree that appears on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List

• Are employed by an E-Verify-registered organisation

• Work in a role directly connected to their field of study

• Submit a complete application before their initial OPT expires

When approved, your F-1 status and work authorisation are extended for the full STEM period.

Why the STEM extension matters in 2026

In today’s competitive job landscape, many employers want graduates who can work and contribute beyond a single year. The 12-month OPT period often isn’t long enough for:

• Completing substantial technical projects

• Progressing from entry-level roles into more advanced responsibilities

• Participating in annual hiring cycles

• Navigating the H-1B lottery process

The STEM extension offers up to three total years of US work experience. This gives you:

• More stability during critical career-building years

• Additional H-1B opportunities

• Time to strengthen your professional track record

• Space to prepare long-term visa applications

For many students, the STEM OPT extension becomes a turning point in their US career journey.

Eligibility: who can apply for STEM OPT in 2026

You must meet all of the following requirements.

1. Your degree must be STEM-eligible

Your programme must be listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. This includes a wide range of fields such as engineering, computer science, data analytics, natural sciences, mathematics and several interdisciplinary technologies.

2. You must be on active post-completion OPT

You cannot apply from CPT or while outside the US.

3. Your employer must qualify

They must:

• Be enrolled in E-Verify

• Provide a paid role that aligns with your degree

• Offer structured training and supervision

4. You must complete Form I-983

This training plan is the core of your application.

5. You must file before your OPT expires

Timing is critical. You cannot miss the deadline.

Your STEM OPT timeline: a clear step-by-step

1. Up to 90 days before your initial OPT end date — prepare your documents

This is the earliest you can file. Gather:

• Updated I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation

• Form I-983 signed by you and your employer

• Completed Form I-765

• Passport photos meeting USCIS requirements

• Academic transcripts and degree copy

• Identity and employment documents

2. Submit your I-765 application

You must file:

• Before your OPT expires

• Within your eligible filing window

Many students choose the online USCIS portal for convenience.

3. Automatic 180-day extension

If you file on time, you receive an automatic extension of work authorisation for up to 180 days while USCIS processes your application.

4. Receive your new EAD card

Your 24-month STEM OPT period officially begins on the start date listed on your new card.

5. Submit required ongoing reports

During STEM OPT, you must:

• Submit validation reports every six months

• Complete self-evaluations at 12 and 24 months

• Report any employment change within 10 days

• Update your DSO if your role’s responsibilities change

These reporting rules are mandatory.

Employer rules: what your company must do

Many students underestimate how carefully USCIS evaluates employers under the STEM regulations. Your employer must:

1. Use E-Verify

This is an absolute requirement.

2. Provide structured training

Your work must include learning objectives and hands-on development that you outline in Form I-983.

3. Offer paid employment

Unpaid STEM OPT roles are not allowed.

4. Supervise your work closely

Your employer must complete your 12-month and 24-month evaluations.

5. Report key changes to your DSO

This includes:

• Termination

• Reduced hours

• Material job changes

• New supervisors

• Shifts in responsibilities

Employers must not:

• Assign you to third-party consulting locations without supervision

• Treat you as a contractor or “1099” worker

• Provide purely remote roles without oversight

• Submit vague or generic training plans

• Offer roles unrelated to your STEM degree

These issues are major RFE triggers.

Form I-983: the heart of your STEM OPT extension

Your I-983 is the most important document in your application. USCIS uses it to confirm that:

• Your role aligns with your STEM degree

• You receive structured, supervised training

• Your employer is committed to helping you grow

• You are not filling a role designed only for productivity

Tips for a strong I-983

• Be specific about the tools, systems and skills you will use

• Describe real, regular supervision

• Include measurable goals

• Ensure job titles and descriptions match across all documents

• Update the form promptly if your role changes

A strong training plan supports the entire application.

Travel during STEM OPT: what you need to know

Before your STEM OPT is approved

Travel is not recommended. Re-entering the US can be risky without the new EAD.

After approval

Carry:

• Passport

• Valid F-1 visa

• STEM OPT EAD

• I-20 with travel signature (less than six months old)

• Employment verification letter

Travel is safest when all documents are up to date.

Common STEM OPT mistakes to avoid

1. Filing after your OPT expires

2. Submitting an incomplete or inconsistent I-983

3. Working fewer than 20 hours per week

4. Assuming fully remote roles always qualify

5. Missing mandatory six-month reports

These errors can jeopardise your status.

Your quick approval cheat sheet (2026 edition)

Before filing, confirm:

✔ Your degree is on the DHS STEM list
✔ Your employer is enrolled in E-Verify
✔ Job duties match your academic background
✔ Form I-983 is fully completed and consistent
✔ Your I-20 includes STEM OPT recommendation
✔ Your I-765 is accurate with correct fee
✔ You filed before your OPT end date
✔ You understand all reporting obligations

If you can check every box, you’re in a strong position.

How Prodigy Finance helps you focus on your STEM OPT journey

Balancing coursework, OPT deadlines and job applications can be demanding. Securing your funding early helps you concentrate on your academic progress and your future plans.

Prodigy Finance supports international students from 120+ countries with postgraduate loans designed for cross-border mobility. There’s no collateral required, and we send the funds to your school. Repayments begin after your grace period, giving you time to settle into your role before payments start.

If you’re planning a STEM-focused programme that could lead to strong STEM OPT opportunities, you can check your eligibility* early and move forward with confidence.

Conclusion: the STEM extension strengthens your future

The STEM OPT extension is a powerful opportunity — but only if you understand the rules. With the right timeline, a strong training plan and a supportive employer, you can build the foundation for a meaningful US career.

Remember:

• Eligibility, timing and documentation matter

• Employer responsibilities are essential

• Reporting requirements are non-negotiable

• Your application must be complete and consistent

When you stay organised and informed, the STEM extension can become a launchpad for long-term success.

Ready for your next step?

If you’re planning a STEM-focused degree in the US, you can check your eligibility for a Prodigy Finance loan* in minutes.

*Loan and promotion offers are subject to our eligibility, funding, and credit assessment criteria.

*Loan amounts are subject to the cost of attendance limits set by schools.

*6 month repayment grace period after graduation is only applicable to full-time students. For part-time students, repayment starts 3 months after loan disbursement.

*The purpose of this guide is to provide prospective students with a general overview of the international student visa process and should not be regarded as legal or immigration advice, or as a substitute for official guidance from government authorities, embassies, or consular offices. While we’ve taken care to compile accurate and up-to-date information, Prodigy Finance Limited does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or outdated details. We strongly encourage all prospective students and readers to consult the official government websites and immigration authorities relevant to their study destination for the most accurate and current information. Prodigy Finance Limited is not authorised to provide immigration services and cannot offer personalised visa advice or assistance.