STEM OPT Extension: 24 Months Done Right

STEM OPT Extension: 24 Months Done Right

If you have a STEM degree, the 24-month STEM OPT extension is your most powerful immigration tool. It transforms a 12-month work authorization into 36 months — enough time to go through two H-1B lottery cycles and build a strong enough profile for alternative visa pathways. But the STEM OPT extension comes with requirements that trip up even well-prepared candidates. Here is everything you need to know to execute it flawlessly.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, you must meet all of these criteria:

• STEM degree: Your degree must be on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program list (CIP codes). This includes obvious fields like computer science, engineering, and ma...