24-Month STEM OPT Extension

The majority of international students come to the United States to study in STEM programs.

But what exactly qualifies as a STEM program?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields are particularly valuable for international students because they allow students to qualify for the 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension.

This means a student with a qualifying STEM degree may receive up to 3 years of work authorization in the United States:

• 12 months of initial OPT
• 24-month STEM OPT extension

This additional time allows international students to gain hands-on professional experience, develop their skills, and work with leading companies in their fields. Many large corporations and consulting firms actively recruit graduates with STEM degrees and often sponsor them for H-1B visas.

If you are interested in a STEM program or would like to know if the program you are enrolled in is STEM approved, please review the below link.

DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List

The easiest way to verify this is by checking the CIP code on your Form I-20.

• If the CIP code on your I-20 appears on the DHS STEM list, your program qualifies.
• If the CIP code is not listed, your program is not considered STEM-designated for OPT purposes.

I’ve attached the most up-to-date DHS list of STEM-designated programs so students can verify their eligibility.

Always check your CIP code carefully it determines whether you qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.