Learn how to complete the I983, which is the most important piece of applying for the STEM OPT Extension. F1 Visa students must complete the Form I983 with their employers before STEM OPT extension can be approved.
Applying for STEM OPT is similar to that of the initial Post-Completion OPT in that you will be requesting work authorization from USCIS. However, with STEM OPT, an F-1 student must submit a request for STEM extension to USCIS before the expiration date of the OPT EAD card.
If your request for STEM extension is not received in a timely manner, USCIS may deny your application for extension. While the application for STEM OPT extension is being processed by USCIS , F1 visa students can continue working on their expired EAD card for a maximum of 180 days from the date of expiration.
