What is the STEM OPT Extension Program for Indian Students?

Imagine being able to stay back in the U.S. after your graduation and work in your dream tech firm. Sounds tempting, right?

The STEM OPT Extension program offers exactly that to Indian students who hold F-1 visas and graduate with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM).

Designed as a 24-month extension to the regular 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, this initiative allows eligible F-1 students with STEM degrees to extend their stay and gain real-world experience.

It supports their professional development while enhancing the U.S. workforce with international talent.

Universities in the United States recognize the importance of providing the training experience through programs of study that directly relate to students’ majors.

With the increasing competitiveness in global job markets, the extension provides international students an opportunity to build robust resumes, develop their skills, and find the right employers. 

For Indian students eyeing innovation-driven roles, understanding how to apply for a 24-month extension is crucial.

What is an OPT Period for STEM Designated Degrees?

Fun fact: More than 200,000 international students annually apply for OPT in the U.S., and a significant portion are from India.

They also partake in the annual student and exchange visitor program.

• OPT is a period of post-completion OPT allowing F-1 students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after finishing their degree.
• This employment must relate directly to their field of study.
• OPT job is not employer-specific; students can work for multiple employers or switch jobs.
• OPT must be approved before the current OPT employment authorization expires.
• Students may not apply for STEM OPT extensions during the 60-day grace period post their initial OPT end date.

What is STEM OPT Extension?

Fun fact: The U.S. government launched the 24-month STEM OPT Extension in 2016, doubling the previous 17-month version.

• The STEM OPT Extension is a 24-month period of post-completion optional training extension for STEM OPT students.
• Eligible F-1 students with STEM degrees may apply for STEM OPT extensions unless they have already used a similar extension before.
• The extension is available only to students whose employers participate in E-Verify and who sign the training plan (Form I-983).
• Students cannot qualify for STEM OPT if they are on OPT based on a non-STEM degree.
• The extension period must be filed before the current OPT end date.

How to Do STEM Extension for Your Degree Program?

Fun fact: Filing your STEM OPT extension early gives you the legal right to continue working for 180 days beyond your OPT expiration while the extension is pending.

• First, ensure your degree is on the DHS list of STEM-designated degree programs.
• Talk to your DSO (Designated School Official) and submit the form because F-1 students must have an employer that signs the training plan.
• Obtain the new STEM OPT I-20 from your DSO, which includes the STEM OPT recommendation.
• File your STEM OPT extension application (Form I-765) with USCIS within 90 days before and 60 days after your OPT end date.
• Keep working on OPT employment opportunity directly related to your major while your application is pending.

What is the Form I-983 and Why is it Significant?

Fun fact: Without a properly filled Form I-983, your application for the 24-month extension might be rejected.

• Form I-983 is a formal training plan for STEM OPT students that ensures the practical training through an employer aligns with academic goals.
• Both the student and the employer must sign the training plan.
• It outlines the student’s learning objectives, supervision details, and employer obligations.
• It ensures employers meet their responsibilities and do not replace American workers.
• Required for submission to receive the STEM OPT extension recommendation from your DSO.

What is the STEM OPT Extension Eligibility for Indian Students?

Fun fact: Over 80% of Indian students in the U.S. are enrolled in STEM programs, making them primary beneficiaries of the STEM OPT extension.

• Must hold an F-1 student visa and be on post-completion OPT.
• Degree must be in an approved STEM field.
• Must be working or have a job offer from a STEM OPT employer enrolled in E-Verify.
• Must submit the form I-983 signed by both parties.
• Students must apply for the extension before their current OPT expires.

How to Apply for STEM OPT Employment?

Fun fact: Applying early increases your chances of uninterrupted employment in the U.S.

• Ensure your job role directly relates to your STEM major.
• Collect a letter of recommendation or statement of purpose if required by your employer.
• Prepare all application materials including resume, personal statement, Form I-983, and STEM OPT I-20.
• File your STEM OPT application with USCIS using Form I-765.
• Track your application status while continuing work during the 180-day grace period.

How to Impress the STEM OPT Employers?

Fun fact: A well-crafted personal statement or resume can make your application shine even in a sea of qualified candidates.

• Demonstrate how your program of study and training experience aligns with the company’s objectives.
• Include standardized test scores like GRE, SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, or GMAT if applicable.
• Highlight your technical skills, teamwork, and adaptability through quantifiable achievements.

STEM Designated Degree Program List and Universities Where They are Offered

Fun fact: There are over 300+ qualifying STEM degrees recognized by DHS.

Here are 10 of the most popular ones among Indian students.

Conclusion

The STEM OPT Extension is more than a visa benefit; it is a strategic career move for F-1 students with STEM degrees.

From understanding the OPT period and practical training guidelines to filing the Form I-983 and ensuring your OPT employment aligns with your program of study, each step holds immense significance.

Eligible F-1 students must follow the rules, submit their STEM OPT application on time, and file their STEM OPT with accuracy to qualify for a 24-month STEM extension.

This optional practical training extension empowers students to build industry experience, work on real projects, and enhance their resumes.

Whether it’s securing a job in Silicon Valley or contributing to a biotech firm, the STEM OPT program provides the practical training experience needed for a bright future in the U.S. job market.

So, apply for the STEM OPT extension and submit your STEM extension with Ambitio, before your current OPT ends and take that crucial step toward your career aspirations today.

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