Visa Focus Friday: OPT and STEM OPT – Launching Careers and Boosting Innovation

This week, we are focusing on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and its extension, STEM OPT—two vital programs that allow international students to gain practical work experience in the United States after completing their academic studies.  These programs are essential for helping students transition from education to employment while contributing to the U.S. economy.

What Is OPT?

OPT is a period during which F-1 students who have completed their degree can work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in a job related to their field of study.  OPT is available to students from all academic disciplines and is often the first step for international students seeking professional experience in the U.S.

What Is STEM OPT?

STEM OPT is a 24-month extension of regular OPT available to graduates with degrees in certain science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.  This extension allows eligible students to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months total after graduation—giving them more time to develop advanced skills and gain valuable work experience.

Why Are OPT and STEM OPT Important for Students?
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• Career Experience: OPT provides students the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, helping them build strong resumes and professional networks.
• Extended Work Opportunities: STEM OPT’s additional 24 months allow students in high-demand fields more time to establish themselves in the U.S. job market.
• Pathway to Long-Term Employment: Both OPT and STEM OPT can serve as stepping stones toward employer-sponsored work visas such as the H-1B, or other immigration options.

Why OPT and STEM OPT Matter for the U.S. Economy

• Retention of Skilled Talent: These programs enable the U.S. to retain highly educated international graduates who are essential for innovation and economic growth.
• Filling Workforce Gaps: STEM OPT, in particular, addresses shortages in critical sectors such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and research.
• Enhancing Global Competitiveness: By supporting international students and graduates, the U.S. strengthens its leadership in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Eligibility and Requirements

For Regular OPT:

• Available to all F-1 students after completion of their degree.
• Valid for up to 12 months.
• Work must be directly related to the student’s major area of study.

For STEM OPT Extension:

• Available only to students with qualifying STEM degrees.
• Must be in an active period of regular OPT.
• Employment must be with an E-Verify enrolled employer.
• Requires submission of Form I-765 and ongoing reporting to the Designated School Official (DSO).

The Role of Employers

Employers hiring STEM OPT students must comply with program requirements, including providing structured training and supervision related to the student’s degree. This collaboration ensures meaningful learning and professional growth.

Conclusion

OPT and STEM OPT programs are critical in bridging education and employment for international students, fostering talent retention and driving innovation across key sectors of the U.S. economy. At Stommes Immigration, we provide expert guidance to students and employers navigating these programs to maximize their benefits.


For personalized assistance with OPT or STEM OPT, contact us at [email protected].  We are here to help you succeed.



If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help.  At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.
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The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.  To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].