Transitioning from Regular OPT to STEM OPT
Are you on your regular Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and considering leveling up your work experience in the United States by entering the world of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM)? If you’ve found a qualifying STEM job, you might be wondering about the possibility of switching to STEM OPT. The good news is—yes, it’s entirely possible to transition from regular OPT to STEM OPT, but there are specific criteria and steps you need to follow.
The STEM OPT extension is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student’s program of study in an approved STEM field. Here’s what you need to know to make the switch smoothly.
Understanding Eligibility for STEM OPT Extension
To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, you must:
- Be currently participating in the 12-month post-completion OPT.
- Have earned a degree from an accredited institution that is certified by the U.S. Department of Education and is related to a STEM field.
- Have a job or job offer from an employer that’s enrolled in the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify employment verification program.
- Apply before your current OPT expiration date.
Steps to Apply for a STEM OPT Extension
- Confirm Your Degree Qualifies: Check if your degree falls under the STEM Designated Degree Program List.
- Find a Qualifying STEM Job: Your job should offer at least 20 hours of work per week and provide formal training and learning objectives.
- Employer’s Role: Your employer must be E-Verify compliant and willing to complete the Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.
- File for STEM OPT Extension: You need to file the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and provide the required fee, photo, and documents, including your Form I-20, endorsed for STEM OPT by your Designated School Official (DSO), and your completed Form I-983.
It’s crucial to apply for the OPT extension before your current OPT expires. The USCIS recommends submitting your STEM OPT extension application 90 days before your current OPT authorization ends but no later than the end of the current OPT.
The Role of Your Designated School Official (DSO)
The DSO plays a vital role in the STEM OPT application process. After you present your job offer to your DSO and plan the move to STEM OPT, they must:
- Confirm your eligibility.
- Update your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to reflect that you’re recommended for STEM OPT.
- Provide you with a new Form I-20.
Timing and Working While Your STEM OPT Extension Is Pending
If you have filed your application on time and your current OPT period expires while your STEM OPT extension application is being processed, you’re allowed to continue working for up to 180 days while waiting for approval.
Keeping Your Immigration Status Secure
Always keep in mind the delicate nature of immigration status. It’s essential to adhere strictly to the rules:
“If you fail to comply with your OPT requirements or your STEM OPT extension provisions, you might jeopardize your status in the country.”
Useful Resources and Contact Information
For more detailed guidelines and resources, visiting official immigration websites is always recommended. These websites provide comprehensive information about the various procedures and forms involved:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Study in the States
- SEVP – Student and Exchange Visitor Program
For any doubts or issues you face, always consider discussing them directly with your DSO or reaching out to USCIS for professional advice.
Moving from traditional OPT to STEM OPT can be an exciting transition, opening up new avenues in your career. Knowing the right steps to take and understanding eligibility makes all the difference. It’s not merely about finding a qualifying STEM job; it’s also about meticulously following the application process to stay compliant and maintain your immigration status securely.
So, there you have it! Transitioning from regular OPT to STEM OPT isn’t rocket science, but it does require following specific criteria and steps. Just remember, having a qualifying STEM job is only the beginning. To dive deeper into the world of STEM OPT and ensure a smooth transition, head over to visaverge.com. Your tech-savvy friend is cheering you on!
FAQ’s to know:
FAQ 1: Can I transition from regular OPT to STEM OPT?
Yes, it is possible to transition from regular Optional Practical Training (OPT) to STEM OPT if you meet certain criteria. To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, you need to be currently participating in the 12-month post-completion OPT, have earned a degree from an accredited institution related to a STEM field, have a job or job offer from an employer enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify program, and apply before your current OPT expiration date.
FAQ 2: What are the steps to apply for a STEM OPT extension?
To apply for a STEM OPT extension, you need to follow these steps:
1. Confirm if your degree qualifies as a STEM designation.
2. Find a qualifying STEM job that offers at least 20 hours of work per week and provides formal training and learning objectives.
3. Ensure your employer is E-Verify compliant and willing to complete the Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.
4. File the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the required fee, photo, and documents, including your Form I-20 endorsed for STEM OPT by your Designated School Official (DSO), and your completed Form I-983.
Remember to apply for the STEM OPT extension before your current OPT expires, preferably 90 days prior but no later than the end of your current OPT.
FAQ 3: What role does the Designated School Official (DSO) play in the STEM OPT application process?
The Designated School Official (DSO) plays a vital role in the STEM OPT application process. After you present your job offer and plan to move to STEM OPT, your DSO must confirm your eligibility, update your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to show that you are recommended for STEM OPT, and provide you with a new Form I-20. Your DSO will support and guide you throughout the application process, so it’s crucial to maintain open communication with them.
What did you learn? Answer below to know:
- True/False: To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, you must have a job offer from an employer enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify employment verification program.
- What is the recommended timeframe for submitting a STEM OPT extension application before the current OPT authorization ends?
- What is the role of the Designated School Official (DSO) in the STEM OPT application process?
