Jobs for STEM OPT Students
The 24-month STEM OPT extension gives F-1 graduates with qualifying STEM degrees up to 36 months of U.S. work authorization, but your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and you need an approved I-983 training plan before day one. Browse STEM OPT job categories below to find roles at employers who meet the E-Verify requirement and actively hire international STEM graduates.
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Tips for Finding STEM OPT Jobs
Confirm Your CIP Code Qualifies
STEM OPT eligibility hinges on your degree's CIP code appearing on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Cross-reference your transcript's CIP code with the list before applying, not after your DSO flags a mismatch.
Start the I-983 Training Plan Early
The I-983 requires your employer to outline mentorship goals and learning objectives tied to your degree. Draft it collaboratively with your supervisor at least six weeks before your current OPT expires to avoid last-minute rejections from your DSO.
Filter STEM OPT Roles on Migrate Mate
Use Migrate Mate's STEM OPT filter to surface jobs at E-Verify employers in your field. The filter cross-references company E-Verify enrollment and STEM degree classifications so you skip listings where the extension would not apply.
Track the Cap-Gap If Switching to H-1B
If you file an H-1B petition while on STEM OPT, your work authorization extends through September 30 of that fiscal year under the cap-gap provision. Miss the April filing window and you lose that bridge, so coordinate your H-1B timeline with your employer early.
Keep Self-Assessment Records for Compliance
STEM OPT requires self-evaluations at the 12-month mark and at the end of the extension. Document specific projects, skills gained, and how your work aligns with your I-983 training plan so these reports meet the regulatory standard.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
What is the STEM OPT extension and how long does it last?
The STEM OPT extension adds 24 months of work authorization on top of the standard 12-month post-completion OPT period, giving you up to 36 months total. You must hold a degree in a qualifying STEM field listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and work for an E-Verify enrolled employer.
Does my employer need to be enrolled in E-Verify for STEM OPT?
Yes, E-Verify enrollment is a hard federal requirement. If your employer is not actively enrolled in E-Verify at the time you apply for the STEM OPT extension, USCIS will deny the application. Your DSO cannot sign the I-20 without confirming enrollment. Verify directly on the E-Verify website before accepting an offer.
What is the I-983 training plan and when should I complete it?
The I-983 is a formal training plan that outlines your learning objectives, mentorship structure, and how your job duties relate to your STEM degree. Both you and your employer sign it. Submit it to your DSO well before your OPT end date, since revisions are common and delays can jeopardize your filing window.
Can I change employers while on STEM OPT?
You can change employers, but the new company must also be enrolled in E-Verify and you need a new I-983 training plan filed with your DSO. You must report the change within 10 days. If you are between employers, the STEM OPT extension allows a maximum of 150 days of unemployment across the full 24-month period.
How do I find STEM OPT eligible jobs?
Search for roles on Migrate Mate using the STEM OPT filter, which surfaces positions at E-Verify enrolled employers hiring in STEM fields. Check that the role aligns with your degree's CIP code classification, since a mismatch between your job duties and your STEM degree can result in a denied extension.
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