Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Optional Practical Training

Key changes

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields; as well as clarifying guidance concerning online study, school transfers, the grace period, and study abroad.
• Clarifies that students may count one class or three credits (or the equivalent) during each term or semester toward a full course of study if the class is taken online or through distance learning not requiring physical attendance for any purpose integral to completion of the class.
• Explains that students may transfer between SEVP-certified schools at the same educational level or move between educational levels.
• Explains that, during the 60-day grace period following an authorized period of post- completion of OPT, students may change their education level, transfer to another SEVP- certified school, or file an application or petition with USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant or immigrant status.
• Clarifies that students may be eligible for post-completion OPT after completion of an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.
• Corrects the time period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions and makes other technical corrections.
• Clarifies that a student enrolled in an ICE SEVP-certified school during a study abroad program may remain active in SEVIS if the study abroad program lasts less than 5 months, but the student will need a new Form I-20 if the program lasts longer than 5 months.