Positive Changes For F-1 Students With "STEM" Degrees
An optional practical training (OPT) authorizes F-1 students to receive up to 12 months of practical training either before or after completion of their studies. On April 8, 2008, an interim final rule was issued stating that certain F-1 students will be eligible to receive a 17-month extension following the completion of their OPT. Under the new rule, F-1 students with a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), who are employed by employers enrolled in E-Verify, and who have received an initial OPT related to such a degree may apply for a 17-month extension of the OPT.
The student will file for the 17-month STEM extension on Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization, and include a copy of the STEM degree, and Form I-20 endorsed by the Designated School Official.
F-1 students with STEM degrees may benefit from this final rule if they are the beneficiaries of an approved H-1B petition by automatically extending their F-1 status. This allows the student to remain in the U.S. and continue working until October 1, the start date of the H-1B petition.
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