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Immigration

STEM OPT: How to Work in
the US After Graduation

One of the biggest advantages of a US STEM degree is post-graduation work authorization. F-1 students in STEM fields can work in the US for up to 3 years, whether you graduate with a bachelor's or master's. Here is exactly how it works.

What Is OPT?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a benefit of F-1 student status that allows you to work in the US in a job related to your field of study. Every F-1 student who completes a degree program is eligible for 12 months of post-completion OPT.

The key word is "related to your field." If you earn an MS in Computer Science, your OPT job should be in software engineering, data science, research, or another CS-related role. Working as a barista would not qualify.

12

months of standard OPT

+24

months STEM extension

= 36

total months of work

What Is the STEM OPT Extension?

If your degree is classified as STEM (listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List), you can apply for a 24-month extension of your initial 12-month OPT. This gives you a total of 36 months (3 years) of work authorization.

Most common STEM degrees qualify (bachelor's and master's):

Computer Science
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Data Science
Mathematics
Physics
Biology
Civil Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Statistics
Biomedical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering

Check the STEM list

The DHS maintains a list of STEM-designated CIP codes. Before choosing a program, verify that your specific degree's CIP code qualifies. Some programs with STEM-sounding names may not be on the list, and some non-obvious programs (like certain business analytics degrees) are.

OPT Timeline: When to Apply

The OPT application timeline is strict. Missing a deadline can cost you the entire benefit.

1

Request OPT recommendation from your DSO

Your Designated School Official (international student office) must recommend your OPT in SEVIS. Do this as soon as you know your completion date.

2

File Form I-765 with USCIS

You can file up to 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after. Filing fee is $410 (as of 2025).

3

Choose your start date

OPT must start within 60 days of your program completion. You pick the start date within this window.

4

Wait for EAD card

You cannot start working until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Processing typically takes 1–3 months.

Critical: the 90-day unemployment limit

On standard OPT, you cannot be unemployed for more than 90 aggregate days. On the STEM extension, this increases to 150 days. Exceeding the limit means your OPT is automatically terminated. Start your job search before graduation.

STEM OPT Extension Requirements

To qualify for the 24-month STEM extension, you need:

  • 1.A STEM-designated degree - your degree's CIP code must be on the DHS STEM list.
  • 2.An E-Verify employer - your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify. Most large tech companies and corporations are. Startups and small companies may not be.
  • 3.A formal training plan (Form I-983) - you and your employer complete this form describing your training goals and how the job relates to your degree.
  • 4.Apply before OPT expires - you must file the STEM extension before your initial 12-month OPT expires. You can continue working while it's pending.

OPT vs. CPT: What's the Difference?

CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

Work authorization during your studies. Must be part of your curriculum (internship requirement or co-op). Available after one academic year. No limit on duration, but using 12+ months of full-time CPT eliminates your OPT eligibility.

When: During studies

OPT (Optional Practical Training)

Work authorization after graduation. 12 months standard, extendable to 36 for STEM. Applied for through USCIS. Job must be related to your field of study.

When: After graduation

Watch out for CPT impact

If you use 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you lose your OPT eligibility entirely. This is a common trap at programs that require multiple full-time co-op terms. Check your program's CPT requirements before enrolling.

After OPT: What Are Your Options?

STEM OPT gives you 3 years to work in the US, but it's temporary. After it expires, you need another status to stay. The most common paths:

  • →H-1B visa - employer-sponsored work visa. Annual lottery with ~25-30% selection rate. Your employer can apply while you're on OPT. Three chances during 36 months of STEM OPT.
  • →O-1 visa - for individuals with "extraordinary ability." Harder to qualify for but no annual cap. Common in research and specialized engineering roles.
  • →Another degree - enrolling in another degree program resets your F-1 status and potentially gives you another round of OPT.
  • →Green card sponsorship - some employers sponsor permanent residency. This is a multi-year process that can begin while you're on OPT.

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