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STEM OPT Extension

F-1 students who completed a degree in certain science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields and are currently on post-completion OPT may be eligible to apply for a STEM OPT Extension. This OPT extension period is for 24 months beginning the day after your post-completion OPT EAD expires. Please review the eligibility criteria and consult with OIS if you have questions.

STEM OPT Updates

  • Updated OPT and STEM OPT EAD photo policy
    • On December 12, 2025 USCIS announced changes to the photo policy for applications to USCIS. Currently some (but not all) students applying for OPT and the STEM Extension are receiving notices for biometrics. These notices require students to visit a USCIS Application Support Center to take a photo for the EAD card. The appointment is made for you, and details will arrive in your online account and through the mail. 
    • We recommend checking the ‘Documents’ section of your USCIS account regularly for any updates to your application. That may be the first place to see the notice. If you do not recieve the appointment notice within 2 weeks of the status update in your account, you can send a message in your USCIS account. You should also contact your OIS advisor for assistance.  
    • Students still need to upload a photo with the application. Make sure you are using a new photo for your request. We recommend getting your photo taken at a business that is familiar with the requirements and can provide you with a high quality file to upload.
    • If you get the notice, follow the instructions carefully. The appointment document includes information about rescheduling your appointment if needed. Reach out to your OIS advisor if you have any questions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Have a question about STEM OPT?

    View the STEM OPT Workshop

    Read more

    Want to speak with an advisor about about STEM OPT?

    Join one of OIS’ regular OPT Q&A sessions held online every Tuesday at 1:00PM. The sessions are accessible through the following link: https://ncsu.zoom.us/j/99595429274. Please note you must join the session by 1:30pm (Tuesday). The session will be locked after these times and you will not be able to join using the above mentioned link.

    Participants are invited to ask questions through a group chat function, and an OIS advisor will talk through the questions with everyone in virtual attendance. All participants will be able to hear each question, so if you have a lengthy question or a question of a personal nature, please make an appointment with your advisor or attend virtual walk-in advising. Please note that the Q&A sessions are optional and there is no set presentation; the Q&A sessions just provide an opportunity for students to talk with OIS advisors about any OPT questions they may have. 

    STEM OPT Useful Links

    Connect with OIS as an alumni

    We encourage you to explore the various ways that OIS and NC State engage with international alumni. Visit our International Alumni webpage to learn about the Alumni & Friends newsletter, the NC State Global Alumni LinkedIn group, and more.