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US Extends Work Eligibility for STEM Students to 3 Years: New OPT Rules Explained

 Introduction

Great news for international students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields! The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated its policy guidelines for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Effective from August 27, 2024, these changes offer exciting opportunities for STEM students aspiring to gain work experience in the United States. In this blog post, we'll decode these new rules and what they mean for you.

Extended OPT Duration for STEM Students

One of the most significant updates is the extended OPT duration for STEM students. USCIS now allows international students in STEM fields to work in the US for up to three years after graduation. This is a substantial increase from the standard one-year OPT available to students in non-STEM fields. With three years of work eligibility, STEM students have more time to gain valuable industry experience, making them more competitive in the global job market.

Distance Learning Flexibility

Another noteworthy update is the flexibility around distance learning. Under the new guidelines, international students can include up to three online credits per term towards their full course of study requirement without jeopardizing their F1 visa status. This flexibility allows students to adapt their learning approach, incorporating online courses while maintaining their eligibility for OPT.

OPT Eligibility After an Associate's Degree

The updated policy also broadens OPT eligibility. Now, students completing an associate's degree can apply for post-completion OPT, just like those completing bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees. This change opens doors for students in shorter, two-year programs, providing them with the same opportunities to work in the US post-graduation.

Transferring Between Schools

Transferring between schools is now more straightforward under the new policy. As long as both institutions are certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), students can transfer without complications. Whether you're switching study streams or advancing to a higher education level, the process is clearer and more manageable.

Important Points to Remember

  • Grace Period: After completing OPT, students have a 60-day grace period to change their education level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or apply for a different visa status.

  • STEM OPT Extension: Students can apply for a STEM OPT extension up to 90 days before their current employment authorization expires.

  • Study Abroad Programs: If you're part of a study abroad program lasting less than five months, you can remain active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). For longer programs, a new Form I-20 will be required.

Employer Responsibilities for STEM OPT

Employers who hire STEM OPT students must adhere to specific guidelines, including:

  • Enrolling in E-Verify.
  • Reporting material changes to the student's employment status.
  • Implementing a formal training program that aligns with the student's academic learning.
  • Ensuring the OPT opportunity is comparable to those offered to U.S. workers in terms of duties, hours, and pay.

Managing Unemployment During OPT

It's essential to manage your employment carefully during OPT. Students are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment during their initial OPT period. For those on a 24-month STEM extension, an additional 60 days of unemployment is permitted, totaling 150 days.

Conclusion

The new USCIS guidelines bring clarity and expanded opportunities for international students in STEM fields looking to work in the US after completing their studies. With extended OPT duration, increased flexibility in learning, and broadened eligibility, these changes are set to benefit many aspiring professionals. Stay informed and take advantage of these new rules to maximize your career prospects in the United States.

#STEM #OPT #USCIS #InternationalStudents #StudyInUSA #HigherEducation #STEMCareers #WorkInUSA #F1Visa #StudentVisa #USUniversities #GlobalEducation #CareerOpportunities #Harvard #Stanford #MIT #Yale #Princeton #ColumbiaUniversity #UChicago #UCSD #UCBerkeley #NYU #Cornell #UCLA #Northwestern #Duke #UniversityOfPennsylvania

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