Foreign Nationals with a current 17-month STEM OPT extension are eligible under the new 24-month STEM OPT regulations to apply to add an additional 7 months to their STEM OPT period. In order to apply for this 7-month extension, eligible Foreign Nationals must properly file a new Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (including the required fee and signature) on or before August 8, 2016. USCIS will not accept applications filed after August 8, 2016.
Foreign Nationals are eligible to add 7 months to their 17-month STEM OPT extension if:
- They are currently participating in the STEM OPT program based on a 17-month extension;
- They request the additional 7-month period by filing a new Form I-765 between May 10, 2016 and August 8, 2016, and within 60 days of the date their Designated School Official (DSO) enters the recommendation for the 24-month STEM OPT extension into their SEVIS record;
- They have at least 150 days of valid employment authorization remaining on their 17-month STEM OPT period on the date that they properly file a new Form I-765; and
- The Foreign National, their DSO, and their employer each meet all of the 24-month STEM OPT extension requirements.
For additional information, please see https://www.uscis.gov/working-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/students-and-employment/stem-opt.