The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced new rules for international students studying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. These changes, effective from August 27, cover online study, school transfers, grace periods, and study abroad programmes. The new rules apply to both current and future applications.
STEM students can now have up to three years of Optional Practical Training (OPT), compared to one year for non-STEM students. This extension allows students more time to gain work experience in the US. The updated rules also permit students to count one online class or up to three credits per academic session towards their full-time study requirement, without breaking their F1 visa terms.
The new guidelines allow eligible students to transfer between schools certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) at the same or different education levels. Students who complete their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees are now eligible for post-completion OPT. Additionally, students can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension up to 90 days before their current work permit expires. To qualify, they need a valid OPT period, a STEM degree from an accredited institution, and work with an employer enrolled in E-Verify.
After completing OPT, students get a 60-day grace period to change their education level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or apply for a different visa status. During this time, employers can sponsor students for H-1B visas.
Students enrolled in SEVP-certified schools can keep their active status during study abroad programmes lasting less than five months. For longer stays, a new Form I-20 is required. Those on STEM OPT extensions must report any changes in their name, address, or job details within 10 days and confirm their information every six months, even if there are no changes.
