STEM Optional Practical Training Extension
Who it's for: F-1 students on post-study OPT with a degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics who want to extend it.
Information, not immigration advice. This page summarises what the government publishes. Confirm every figure on the official page before you pay or apply.
Last checked 3 Nov 2026
Requirements at a glance
- Job offer needed: Yes
- Minimum education: Bachelor's degree
What the official pages say
2 points recorded from official pages. Open a point to see the official wording.
Job offer neededYesOfficial wording
“Work for an employer who meets all the requirements listed below in the STEM OPT Employer Responsibilities section;”
Minimum educationBachelor's degreeOfficial wording
“Have earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a school that is accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency”
We have not yet recorded: Study place needed; Work experience; Language; Age limit; Money to show; Main fee; Salary threshold; Family can join; Can lead to permanent residence; Decision time; Occupation list. That does not mean there is no rule — confirm on the official page. Official page.
Other work after study routes in United States
All visa types in United States
Every visa type we have listed, grouped by purpose, with links to the official pages.
United States visa typesBefore you pay anyone
- Nobody can guarantee a visa. Only the government of the country you apply to decides.
- UK employers must not charge you for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- German missions say you don't need an agent to get a visa appointment.
- Check any adviser or recruitment agent on an official register before you pay.