OPT / STEM OPT

Determine if your program is STEM-designated

Check your I-20 for your CIP code and compare it against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. If your program is not STEM-designated, explore options: some universities allow adding a STEM-designated minor, dual degree, or changing concentration. Talk to your ISSO and academic advisor about possibilities.

Apply for OPT within the required window

You must apply for post-completion OPT no earlier than 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after. Work with your ISSO to get a new I-20 recommending OPT, then file Form I-765 with USCIS. Processing times vary — apply as early as possible within the window to avoid gaps in work authorization.

Research employers with E-Verify enrollment and H-1B sponsorship history

If you plan to apply for STEM OPT, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify. If you are planning for H-1B sponsorship, research employers who have sponsored H-1B visas in the past. The DOL H-1B disclosure database is a useful resource for identifying sponsoring employers.

Meet with your ISSO to plan your OPT timeline

Your International Student and Scholar Office is your best resource for OPT logistics. Schedule a meeting at least 3-4 months before your program end date. They will issue your OPT I-20, answer questions about the application process, and help you understand your reporting obligations.

Secure employment related to your field of study within 90 days

You have a 90-day aggregate unemployment limit during standard OPT. Unemployment days begin to accumulate once your OPT start date passes. If you reach 90 days of unemployment, your OPT and F-1 status end. Part-time work, self-employment, and even unpaid internships in your field count as employment.

Report your employment to your ISSO within required timelines

You must report your employer name, address, and start date to your DSO (and update this in the SEVP Portal) within 10 days of any change, including changes to your name, address, employer, or employment status. Anything you cannot report via the SEVP Portal must be reported directly to your DSO within 10 days. Failure to report employment changes can jeopardize your F-1 status. Keep your ISSO informed of any job changes.

Begin H-1B preparation with your employer

If your employer plans to sponsor you for H-1B, preparation should start early. The H-1B registration period is typically in March. Your employer needs to register, and if selected in the lottery, file the petition. STEM OPT gives you up to 3 chances at the H-1B lottery.

Prepare for STEM OPT extension if eligible

If your program is STEM-designated, start preparing for the STEM OPT extension well before your standard OPT expires. Work with your employer to complete Form I-983, confirm E-Verify enrollment, and gather required documents. File the extension application before your OPT expiration date — there is no grace period.

Maintain compliance with STEM OPT requirements

During STEM OPT, you have specific ongoing obligations: you must complete annual self-evaluations at 12 and 24 months from your STEM OPT start date (signed by both you and your employer) and submit them to your DSO. You must also make validation reports to your DSO at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months confirming your name, address, employer, and employment status are correct. Your employer must complete the I-983 training plan goals, report material changes, and provide performance evaluations. You must work a minimum of 20 hours per week.

Use STEM OPT to maximize H-1B lottery attempts

STEM OPT gives you up to 36 months of work authorization, which can span up to 3 H-1B lottery cycles. Each year, your employer can register you for the H-1B lottery during the March registration period. This significantly increases your chances of selection.

Explore green card pathways while on STEM OPT

STEM OPT is a bridge — not a destination. While on STEM OPT, evaluate your eligibility for EB-1A (self-petition if you have extraordinary ability), EB-1B (if your employer can sponsor), or EB-2 NIW (self-petition based on national interest). Building your evidence portfolio during STEM OPT puts you in a stronger position.

Monitor your unemployment days carefully

During the STEM OPT extension, you have a 150-day aggregate unemployment limit. If you lose your job, you must find new qualifying employment (with an E-Verify employer) quickly. Track your unemployment days carefully and begin your job search immediately if your employment ends.