OPT/STEM OPT Complete Guide for International Students (2026)

For F-1 students, understanding the difference between OPT and STEM OPT is the first step toward a successful US career. Most students don’t fail at forms—they fail at understanding which option actually helps them. These programs let you work in the US legally after graduation, but picking the wrong one can waste months. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to apply for OPT and STEM OPT in 2026, what common mistakes to avoid, and how to maximize your chances of approval.

Feature	Standard OPT	STEM OPT Extension
Duration	12 Months	+24 Months (Total 36)
Application Window	90 days before / 60 after end	90 days before OPT ends
E-Verify Required?	No	Yes (Compulsory)
Unemployment Days	Max 90 Days	Additional 150 Days (90 initial + 60 extension)

OPT is a program for F-1 undergraduate and graduate students to work in the US for purpose of gaining experience in their field. Generally,  It is valid for 12 months and can be obtained before you graduate (pre-completion) or after graduating (post-completion). As a result, OPT helps students acquire practical experience and consequently increase their employment options.

OPT gives international students work authorization to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting. It is a bridge from student life to professional employment.

The work you do on OPT must be directly related to your major. For example, a computer science graduate must work in software, data, or related roles.

To qualify for OPT/STEM OPT, you must meet these key requirements

Legal Status: You must be in valid F-1 status at the time of application.

Enrolment: You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.

Degree: Your job must be directly related to your major field of study.

STEM Only: For the 24-month extension, your degree must be on the DHS STEM Designated List.

This can be used before graduation, either part-time while studying or full-time during breaks. However, Pre-completion OPT reduces your total 12 months eligibility.

This starts after graduation and can be full-time. Most students choose post-completion OPT because it maximizes work experience time.

Students are eligible to apply if they have a STEM degree and additionally work for an employer who is enrolled in E-Verify.

The STEM OPT extension gives you, as the name implies, an additional two years on top of your original OPT. You will need to file Form I-765 and have certain evidence registered with USCIS.

Your employer must also abide by training plan requirements, report updates, and adhere to federal regulations concerning STEM OPT.

Your school must recommend OPT in SEVIS and issue a new I-20 with OPT request.

The job must relate to your major. Any unpaid, unrelated work may jeopardize OPT status.

Missing a deadline can result in a denial. Keep these dates in mind

• Standard OPT: Apply as early as 90 days before your program end date, or up to 60 days after.
• STEM OPT Extension: Apply up to 90 days before your current EAD expires.
• Filing Window: USCIS must receive your application within 30 days (for OPT) or 60 days (for STEM OPT) of the date your DSO enters the recommendation in SEVIS.

Updated I-20

Form I-765

Passport & visa copies

Photo & fee payment

Submit to USCIS either online or via mail. Keep copies of all forms and receipts.

USCIS Filing Fees for 2026

• Online Filing Fee: $470 (Recommended for faster processing)
• Paper Filing Fee: $520
• Premium Processing Fee (Form I-907): $1,685 (Available for both Standard and STEM OPT)

Processing can take 2–5 months, so apply early to avoid gaps between graduation and employment.

Meet with DSO

Submit OPT request

Receive recommended I-20

File I-765 immediately

Track USCIS receipt

Wait for EAD card

Apply 90 days before OPT expiration

Ensure employer compliance

Submit periodic evaluations

Work must match your major field. Full-time, part-time, internships, and remote jobs (if legal) are acceptable.

You may not exceed 90 days of unemployment during standard OPT. STEM OPT allows additional 60 days.

Working outside your major

Not reporting employer changes

Exceeding unemployment limits

Missing forms

Wrong fees

Late submission

Ensure school updates your SEVIS record with correct OPT dates and employer info.

Make sure employer uses E-Verify and follows STEM OPT reporting rules.

LinkedIn

Indeed

Glassdoor

https://www.microsoft.com

https://www.google.com

https://www.amazon.com

Startups with E-Verify For more guidance on finding jobs as an international student, see

https://globehustle.co.uk/abroad-job-opportunities-for-foreigners/

https://globehustle.co.uk/top-freelancing-skills-in-the-usa-2025/

No, OPT is a temporary work authorization tied to your F-1 student status, not an immigration status like a Green Card. You remain a non-resident for tax purposes during this period.

Yes, you can change employers on OPT. You must update your new employer’s information in your SEVP portal within 10 days of the change. The new job must still be directly related to your major.

If you exceed 90 days of unemployment during your initial 12-month OPT, your F-1 status and work authorization are automatically terminated. You must prepare to leave the US, transfer to a new school, or change your visa status immediately.

Yes, but the work must still be directly related to your degree. You must report your employer’s physical address and your work address (even if it’s your home) to your DSO (Designated School Official).

You must apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension up to 90 days before your current 12-month OPT expires. USCIS must receive your application before your current OPT EAD card expires.

What if My OPT EAD Card Is Delayed?
You cannot start working until you have received your Physical EAD card. If there is a significant delay, you can contact USCIS or inquire about premium processing (if available). Plan to apply as early as possible (up to 90 days before your program end date).

If an H-1B petition is filed for you while you are on OPT, the “cap-gap” automatically extends your F-1 status and work authorization until September 30 of the fiscal year for which the H-1B is being requested, allowing you to legally remain and work while the petition is pending.

How long does it take to get STEM OPT approval in 2026?
STEM OPT approval usually takes 3–5 months, depending on USCIS workload. Apply early to avoid gaps in employment.

Is Premium Processing available for STEM OPT in 2026?
Yes. Premium Processing is available for both Standard OPT and the 24-month STEM OPT extension. By filing Form I-907 and paying the fee of $1,685, USCIS guarantees a decision (Approval, RFE, or Denial) within 30 business days.

How much is the STEM OPT premium processing fee in 2026?
The fee for Premium Processing (Form I-907) is $1,685. It is now available for both Standard OPT and the 24-month STEM OPT extension, providing a USCIS decision within 30 business days.

What is the best time to apply for STEM OPT?
Apply 90 days before your current OPT expires. Applying too early or too late can cause gaps in work authorization.