Off-Campus Employment (Internships)

STEM OPT

STEM OPT Extension – 2016 Amended Rule

The final 24 month STEM OPT rule was published in the Federal Register on Friday, March 11, 2016. 81 FR 13039.

See the STEM OPT Hub for more information.

The DHS list of STEM CIP codes is available at Study in the States. A list of USF STEM OPT eligible majors can be viewed here. Keep in mind that online majors are not eligible for I-20's.

Update to the Department of Homeland Security STEM Designated Degree Program List (7/12/2023)

While we update this list frequently, it is not exhaustive. It should be used as a tool ONLY for STEM OPT exploration.  Incoming students and students changing majors should check with admission and the academic department to make sure the program is offered in person. 

FAST FACTS

• The new 24 month STEM OPT rule became effective Tuesday, May 10, 2016
• Volunteer or unpaid positions will not qualify for the 24 month STEM OPT extension
• Self-employment does not qualify for the 24 month STEM OPT extension
• Cap-Gap is included in the amended rule
• Students may be able to use a previously obtained STEM degree to apply for 24 month STEM OPT extension
• There is an opportunity for a second period of STEM OPT after obtaining a degree at a higher level at an accredited, SEVIS-approved institution

WHAT YOU NEED TO APPLY

• Have earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree at an accredited, SEVP-approved US institution in a major on the DHS Stem Designated Degree Program list and have been granted Standard OPT that is currently valid
  
  
• Work for an employer who meets all the requirements as indicated by the amended rule:
  • Enrolled in E-Verify
  • Agrees to DHS site visits and to report changes in employment within 5 days to a DSO at USF
  • Provides OPT with pay that is similar to US workers with the same duties and hours
  • Complete the Form I-983 to show the formal training plan between the employer and you for the period of the extension
    
    
• Obtain Form I-20 with STEM OPT Extension Request I-20 from OIS (in iStart)
  
  
• Gather the following documents:
  • 2x2 Passport-Style Photograph (you will need two photos if filing by mail)
  • Photocopy of Signed Form I-20 with STEM OPT Extension Request
  • Copy of non-immigration documents (Passport, Visa, I-94)
  • Photocopy of previous EAD card(s) (front & back)
  • Transcripts (recommended) and/or a copy of the diploma, which states the program of study

When Can I File for STEM OPT?

You may file for the 24-month STEM OPT Extension to USCIS as early as 90 days before the end of your Post-Completion OPT but no later than the last day of your Post-Completion OPT.

How to Apply for STEM OPT:

• Request an I-20 for my STEM OPT Application from OIS
• File STEM OPT (C3C) Application with USCIS Online at https://www.uscis.gov/i-765

How Do I Request my I-20 for STEM OPT Application from OIS?

Submit the Request I-20 for STEM OPT Extension Application E-Form at https://iStart.usf.edu 

Note: Filing by mail is still an option; however, we recommend the online method as it is faster and simpler. If you choose to file the STEM OPT Extension Application by mail, you will receive the USCIS mailing address with the STEM OPT Requested I-20. Only use one filing method (not both).

Regardless of the filing method, do NOT file with USCIS until you have obtained the Signed Form I-20 with STEM OPT Extension Request from the Office of International Services.

USING A PREVIOUSLY OBTAINED STEM DEGREE FOR 24 MONTH STEM OPT EXTENSION

Students on Standard OPT based on a non-STEM degree may be eligible to use a prior STEM degree earned from a US institution of higher learning to apply for the 24 month STEM OPT Extension if:

• The prior degree was earned from a currently accredited and SEVP certified institution
• You did not already receive STEM OPT Extension for that prior degree
• It has been no more than 10 years before the DSO recommends a STEM OPT extension in SEVIS based on the prior degree
• The prior degree is in a degree program category included on the current STEM Designated Degree Program List at the time of the DSO recommendation
• The practical training opportunity that is the basis for the 24-month STEM OPT extension must directly relate to the prior degree
• The prior degree was actually conferred (i.e., a student who uses a prior degree cannot take advantage of the "all but thesis or dissertation" exception)

STEM I-20 Processing Note: Due to the volume of requests and limited time some of these cases have to submit to USCIS, our office is processing them in order of deadline. We thank you for your understanding and patience in this matter.

Upon review of your STEM I-20 request in iStart, our office will contact you if adjustments to your paperwork are needed. Otherwise, you will receive an email once your I-20 is ready for pickup/mailing.

Frequently Asked Questions