There is some good news for international graduates in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) looking to work in the U.S.. Foreign graduates from U.S. universities with a STEM degree who were once eligible to apply for U.S. work authorization for 17 months under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, can now obtain OPT work authorization for up to 36 months.
Under this new regulations, certain students will qualify for this new OPT extension based on a prior eligible STEM degree obtained in the U.S., and F-1 students who enroll in a new STEM academic program and earn a qualifying advanced STEM degree will be able to apply for one additional extension. The rule also adds fields of study that qualify for a STEM extension.
Along with this good news, there are, however, new reporting requirements and obligations for students, designated school officers ("DSO"), and employers. Please check out this in-depth blog post for analysis on the new requirements and eligibility requirements.
If you have any questions on the implementation of new rule, please don't hesitate to contact me.
