I’m on F-1 OPT and qualify for STEM OPT. What does this mean for me

If you qualify for the STEM OPT Extension (according to the current regulations), ensure to maintain your F-1 student status by updating your employer information and residential address as necessary. Remember: All existing F-1 regulatory obligations concerning OPT remain applicable.

My 12-month OPT is ending soon, and I wanted to apply for STEM OPT extension. Can I still apply?

Certainly, seek assistance from your DSO to facilitate the processing of your F-1 STEM OPT applications.

You can find a list of all of the STEM fields here: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/stem-opt-hub/additional-resources/eligi…

Do I need a job offer for the STEM extension?

Yes , It needs to be directly relevant to your academic level and area of study, full-time (meaning over 20 hours per week), and from an employer enrolled in E-Verify.

What is E-Verify?

E-Verify, operated by USCIS in collaboration with the Social Security Administration, is an online system designed to aid employers in verifying the employment eligibility of their employees.You can find more information about E-Verify here: http://www.uscis.gov/everify

What if my new EAD card hasn’t arrived before my current one expires, even though I submitted my STEM extension on time?

If USCIS has received your application before the expiration date of your current EAD card, your legal status and work authorization in the US are automatically extended for up to 180 days or until USCIS makes a decision on your request.

Can I be unemployed while I am on OPT STEM?

Yes, temporarily. During standard post-completion OPT, you’re allowed a 90-day period of unemployment. With the STEM extension, you’re granted an additional 60 days of unemployment, totaling 150 days of allowable unemployment throughout your OPT period.

What does Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students,” do?

To ensure you receive the educational and training advantages of your STEM OPT extension, you must complete and submit a Form I-983 training plan. Collaborate with your employer to create the Training Plan, and submit it to your DSO before they can endorse a STEM OPT extension in your SEVIS record.

What if I need to change my Training Plan?

If there are significant changes needed for your Training Plan, both you and your employer must sign the updated version and promptly submit it to your DSO. Material alterations could entail, for instance, a substantial decrease in weekly training hours or a salary reduction without a decrease in work hours.

Additionally, you and your employer must annually sign your self-evaluation. A midpoint assessment is mandatory during the initial 12-month period of your STEM OPT extension, followed by a final self-evaluation before the end of your STEM OPT extension.

Will my training be evaluated during my STEM OPT period?

Absolutely. It’s required to keep the Form I-983 updated on a regular basis. A midpoint assessment must be conducted within the first 12 months of your STEM OPT extension, followed by a I-983 final self-evaluation before the conclusion of your STEM OPT extension.

Is there a grace period after my OPT STEM extension?

Yes, you have a grace period of 60 days.

What is my status while I am on OPT STEM?

As long as you fulfill the following criteria, you are deemed to be in valid F-1 status:

• You maintain employment for over 20 hours per week in your area of study and commensurate with your degree level,
• You hold full-time employment with an E-Verified employer,
• Throughout your OPT and OPT STEM period, you need to follow the rules regarding OPT unemployment days.
• You promptly notify DSO of any address changes within 10 days of occurrence,
• You inform DSO of any changes in your employer’s details OR at least every 6 months.

Can I change employers while on OPT STEM?

Certainly, however, it is imperative that you inform your DSO within 10 days to ensure your F-1 record is appropriately amended to reflect this alteration. Kindly utilize the STEM OPT Employment Reporting form available in the DSO portal to update your details.

What types of employment am I allowed to do on OPT?

All OPT employment must align with your degree level and field of study. Employment under the OPT STEM extension may encompass:

• Multiple employers: A student can work for more than one employer, provided all employment is pertinent to the degree program and all employers are enrolled in E-Verify.
• Work for hire: Also known as 1099 employment, wherein an individual provides services based on a contractual rather than an employment relationship. The company receiving services from the student must be E-Verify registered. Upon DHS request, evidence demonstrating the contract duration and contracting company’s name and address must be furnished.
• Employment through an agency or consulting firm: A student on a 17-month extension may be employed by an employment agency or consulting firm. The agency or firm must be E-Verify registered, although the third parties contracting with them (for which the student provides services) need not be.

Can I pursue studies during my OPT period?

You can enroll in courses as long as they complement your employment. However, initiating another degree program is not permitted. (Should you wish to pursue another degree program, your OPT will be terminated, and you will receive a new F-1 student record).

Can I travel while my OPT STEM application is pending and I have a valid EAD card?

USCIS does not recommend that you travel while your application is pending.

Can I travel if my OPT STEM application is pending and my EAD card is expired?

No, you cannot re-enter the US with expired documents.

What documents do I need for OPT travel?

• Passport (valid 6 months into the future)
• Valid F-1 visa
• Form I-20 (recently signed by CISP)
• Valid EAD card
• Proof of employment

Related Post: How to Complete the I-983 Training Plan?

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