International Student Services: STEM OPT

Students eligible for the STEM OPT Extension will meet the following general criteria:  

• Graduated from a program designated in the accepted list of STEM degrees. 

• Currently participating in OPT with an eligible employer. Eligible employers are e-verified and able to provide students with formal training and learning objectives. 

• Employed in a paid position, working at least 20 hours per week.  

• Note: Volunteer work does not meet STEM OPT eligibility. 

• Maintaining status and following all guidelines in their current OPT authorization.  

Learn more about STEM OPT eligibility at this link. 

The application window begins 90 days prior to your current OPT’s expiration date (listed on your EAD work card). Within that window, take the following steps: 

1. Pay the McNeese STEM OPT fee. 

2. Work with your employer to complete the I-983 training plan. See instructions here. 

3. Email your I-983 to internationaloffice@mcneese.edu.  

4. International Student Services will respond to your email with a new I-20 recommending you for STEM OPT. 

5. Submit the USCIS online application (I-765); the application will ask for your STEM OPT I-20 and several other required documents. See instructions here. 

6. Upon receipt of a properly completed application, USCIS will issue a receipt notice. This notice states that your OPT has been automatically extended by 180 days while awaiting approval. 

7. You will then receive notification of your application’s acceptance or denial from USCIS, along with information about your EAD work authorization card.