Are there post-study work visa extensions available for STEM courses in the USA?
Yes, international graduates with qualifying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics degrees can apply for major post study work visa extensions. While standard practical training provides twelve months of work authorization, eligible students can receive an additional twenty four month extension. This brings your total allowable post graduation employment period to.
As you plan your education path in the United States, understanding post graduation work rights is essential. Qualifying STEM graduates can significantly extend their time to gain practical industry experience.
STEM OPT Overview
| Authorization Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Standard OPT | 12 Months |
| STEM OPT Extension | 24 Months |
| Total Work Period | 36 Months |
Core Requirements
- Your degree CIP code must appear on the official DHS STEM list
- Your prospective employer must be enrolled in the USCIS E-Verify program
- You and your employer must jointly complete Form I 983 Training Plan
My Advice
Check your program curriculum code early and verify that your prospective employers participate in E Verify. Begin gathering your training plan documents well before your initial work period expires to ensure timely filing.
How long can you stay and work after a US master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
More Post-study work questions
- Is Germany the best first priority country for my course and career scope for a Master's?
- What are the career prospects in Singapore after completing an MPH at NUS as an Indian student?
- Which Master's programs in Europe would be most suitable for someone with a B.Com (69%) and MBA (70%), given my interest in management-focused roles and lack of extensive work experience?
- Which master's course suits a Supply Chain Management graduate planning to study in Canada?
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- Which country is more suitable for a Computer Science master's student who prioritizes lower costs and a strong job market, Germany or Ireland?
- After completing my studies, can I stay back in Ireland and apply for permanent residency for a Master's/Bachelor's?
- Can an Indian student get a job in Germany after a master's without prior work experience, especially with good German skills?
More USA questions
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- How much extra should I keep aside for unexpected costs during my MS in the USA?
- By when do I need to submit my application for most UG and PG courses at UCLA?
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?