STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) Extension Eligible Programs

UIndy offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in high-demand industries. As an F1 international student, graduating from one of our eligible STEM programs opens the door to a 24-month STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension, enabling the F1 international student to gain valuable experience in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation.

Undergraduate Programs

• Archaeology
• Biology
• Human Biology
• Chemistry
• Data Science
• Earth-Space Science
• Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • General Engineering
  • Industrial and Systems Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Software Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Environmental Sustainability
• Mathematics
• Medical Lab Science
• Physics

Graduate Programs

• MS Anatomical Science
• MS Human Biology
• MBA Applied Data Analytics
• MBA Finance
• MBA Global Supply Chain Management

Eligibility Check

• Ensure that the student is currently in valid F1 status and has completed a STEM degree from a SEVP-certified institution in the United States. To know if a student's degree is considered in the STEM field, they should find their CIP code listed on their I-20 document next to their major on page one in format 00.0000, then visit the Study in the States website about Eligible CIP Codes for the STEM OPT Extension. The Department of Education's Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) taxonomy system is the basis for the STEM OPT extension.
• The student must be employed by or have a job offer from an employer registered with the E-Verify employment verification system. E-Verify is an Internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration. Employment must be paid and full-time (over 20 hours per week).
• Have fewer than 90 days of unemployment while on OPT.
• Submit the OPT application to USCIS prior to the expiration of the current post-completion OPT. USCIS must receive the application before the expiration date on the current Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Please note: Students do not receive the full 36 months all at once. They must first apply for an initial 12-month post-completion OPT, and then, as early as 90 days before their OPT expires (but no later than 60 days before it ends), they can request the 24-month STEM OPT extension from their Principal Designated School Official (PDSO).

When submitting your application, a fee is required by USCIS.

Please be aware that if you opt for premium processing, the fee will increase significantly. While premium processing expedites the application, it's important to weigh the cost.