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

USCIS increased the filing fee for the I-765 effective April 1, 2024. The current filing fee is $470 for applications filed online and to $520 for paper applications filed by mail. For more information, please see this FAQ by USCIS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about STEM OPT?

View the STEM OPT Workshop

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.