For my course, will I get the additional 24 months extension under STEM OPT in USA?
Whether you get the 24-month STEM OPT extension depends on the CIP code on your I-20, not your major's name. You need a qualifying STEM code from the DHS list, a SEVP-certified degree, an employer enrolled in E-Verify, and a signed Form I-983 training plan to qualify for it.
Whether your course qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension depends entirely on the CIP code listed on your Form I-20, not your major's name alone. You need to match that code against the official DHS STEM Designated Degree Program list to get a definite answer.
Core Requirements for the Extension
| Requirement | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Qualifying STEM CIP code | Your I-20 code must appear on the DHS STEM list |
| SEVP-certified institution | Your degree must come from an accredited, SEVP-certified school |
| Active 12-month OPT | You must currently be in your standard post-completion OPT period |
| Employer on E-Verify | Your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program |
| Signed Form I-983 | You and your employer complete this training plan together |
How to Check Your Own Eligibility
- Find your 6-digit CIP code, formatted like xx.xxxx, on page 1 of your I-20 under Program of Study.
- Search the official DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List on the Study in the States website for that code.
- Contact your university's Designated School Official to confirm your specific major qualifies.
My Advice
Do not guess based on your major's title alone, since some programs that sound STEM related do not carry a qualifying CIP code, and some that sound unrelated do. Pull up your I-20 today, note the exact code, and email your DSO with that code so you get a written answer well before your OPT clock runs out.
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