OPT Extension Eligible STEM Designated Programs
What is a STEM Designated Degree Program?
A STEM designated degree program is an academic program that falls under one or more of the approved categories from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for their focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is a 12-month work authorization available to F-1 international students who have been full-time students for at least two consecutive semesters and plan to seek employment in the United States in their fields of study.
STEM OPT Extension
F-1 international students who completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in STEM designated programs and are currently working with post-completion OPT may apply for the STEM extension of 24 months of additional employment, for a total of 36 months.
900+
international students on F-1 and J-1 visas are currently completing 1-3 additional years of post-graduation training at companies in the U.S.
4,545+
students gained practical employment experience in the past year
$65M
Last year, co-op students earned more than $65 million through employment.
2,065
co-op employers across the U.S. and overseas.
47,858
total jobs posted through RIT Career Services last year
944
total interviews held on campus last year
Definitions of Key Terms
- STEM
science, technology, engineering, and math
- OPT
Optional Practical Training is a 12-month work authorization available to F-1 international students who have been full-time students for at least two consecutive semesters and plan to seek employment in the United States in their fields of study.
- 24-Month Work Extension
international students receiving a graduate degree in a STEM-designated program qualify to apply for a 24-month work extension to their OPT (Optional Practical Training) period.
- STEM Extension
A model in the United States where international students graduating with certain degrees in STEM can remain in the country. As of 2020 it can be up to 24 months. This can be combined with OPT for up to a 36 month visa extension. - CPT
Curricular Practical Training is off campus work (whether it is paid or unpaid), such as internship or co-op, for F-1 international students to receive further training.
- H-1B
The U.S. H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ graduate level workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields such as in IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, science, medicine, etc.
- Co-op
Short for cooperative education. It is a model in American education where students work for a semester instead of taking classes. During that time, students are paid by the company or organization they are working for and do not pay tuition. Learn more about co-op
The information contained on this page is for general information purposes only. Due to frequent government updates, RIT may make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents on this page at any time without prior notice. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) ultimately provides the decision on OPT applications.