Eligibility
Certain F -1 students who completed a degree in a designated STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math) field may be eligible for an additional 24 months of OPT work authorization. To determine eligibility, F-1 students should consult with their Designated School Official (DSO).
Note: An individual who benefits from a STEM extension of their OPT is not eligible to be a Special Volunteer at the NIH.
Required Documents by DIS
Applying for STEM extension of OPT
Work with your ICO administrative contact to complete and submit this form to DIS using the DIS Case Submission SharePoint. Once we receive your request, it is assigned to a DIS Immigration Specialist for review. DIS will provide you with NIH's E-Verify information and sample Form I-983 needed for OPT extension application as a part of our case processing . Please refer to Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) instructions on Form I-983 completion.
Pending STEM extension of OPT
If you timely file your STEM Extension with USCIS, DIS can process up to 180 days of additional work authorization, per
USCIS Guidance. Submit the following documents to benefit from this extension. Refer to our How to Submit Cases and Documents to DIS page for instructions on how to submit.
- USCIS I-765 Receipt Notice
- Completed and signed Form I-983
- Most recent Form I-20
- Most recent Form I-94
Note: Reach out to DIS if you do not receive a receipt notice within four weeks of filing your application OR no earlier than two weeks before your current EAD expires, whichever occurs first.
Approved STEM extension of OPT by USCIS
Once your STEM OPT extension is approved, make sure to notify DIS. Refer to our How to Submit Cases and Documents to DIS page.
Revised 01/2026
