STEMOPT APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Verification of Eligibility

– Confirm that your degree is designated as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) and listed on the DHS-approved STEM Designated Degree Program List.

– Verify that you have an employer that is part of E-Verify and provides work that is directly related to your STEM field.

2. Application Process for STEM OPT

Gather Required Documentation:

– Form I-983: Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.

  – Must be filled out by you along with your employer.

  – Ensure that the employer provides a structured training program and defined objectives.

– Copies of:

  – Your current EAD card (OPT Employment Authorization Document).

  – Your diploma and academic transcripts.

  – Your I-20 endorsed for STEM OPT by your Designated School Official (DSO).

  – Passport (must be valid for at least six months into the future).

  – I-94 record.

Application Steps:

1. Obtain STEM OPT Recommendation:

   – Reach out to your university’s International Student Office or DSO.

   – Submit your completed Form I-983.

   – The DSO will provide a new I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation.

2. Submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization):

   – You can file online or send a paper application to USCIS.

   – Include:

     – Filing fee (check the latest fee information on the USCIS website).

     – Required documentation (refer to the above list).

3. Submit Your Application Before OPT Expiration:

   – STEM OPT applications must be submitted to USCIS within 60 days of the DSO endorsement and prior to the expiration of your current OPT EAD. 

3. Employment Requirements 

Your work must be directly related to your STEM degree, and you must work a minimum of 20 hours each week. 

Your employer needs to be enrolled in E-Verify. 

You must maintain a valid employment agreement and notify your DSO of any changes (e.g., employer, location, job role) within 10 days. 

4. Reporting and Compliance 

6-Month Validation Reports: 

Every six months, you need to verify your details with your DSO (employer, job title, work location, etc.). 

Annual Self-Evaluations: 

You must complete and submit evaluations (page 5 of Form I-983) to your DSO at the 12-month and 24-month marks. 

Unemployment Limits: 

You can have a maximum of 150 days of unemployment during the 24-month STEM OPT period, which also includes any remaining days from your OPT. 

5. Verifications to Ensure Employment Readiness 

E-Verify Enrollment: 

Confirm that your employer is registered in E-Verify and that their registration is active. 

Job Offer Letter: 

Ensure that the letter outlines your job title, responsibilities, start date, and how the job relates to your STEM degree. 

STEM Eligibility: 

Check that your degree and your employer’s job qualify under the STEM OPT requirements. 

Updated SEVIS Record: 

Make sure your school updates your SEVIS record with your employment and STEM OPT details. 

6. Optional Preparations 

Social Security Number (SSN): 

Ensure you possess a valid SSN if needed for payroll and tax reasons. 

Health Insurance: 

Consult with your employer about health insurance options as you begin your job. 

Tax Filing Awareness: 

Familiarize yourself with tax obligations as an F-1 student. 

Use Form 8843 (for nonresident aliens) and ensure compliance with federal and state tax regulations. 

7. Key Deadlines 

STEM OPT application: You should file within 90 days before your OPT expires. 

Reporting changes to DSO: Notify them within 10 days of any change. 

USCIS response: Anticipate a receipt notice along with processing times from USCIS (typically 90–120 days). 

8. Maintain F-1 Status 

Make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months. 

Update your address in SEVIS through your DSO within 10 days of any change you make. 

Continue working in a qualifying job to avoid exceeding your unemployment limits.

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