New Standards For Foreign STEM Students Available In US

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released the updated policy rules for international students who study STEM subjects or Scienc, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics overall overeseas. The new rules affect both current and prospective applications for Optional Practical Training (OPT), with the changes going into effect on August 27 .

Policy Updates for F1 Students dragged by OPT

• OPT – allows international students to work in the US after graduation related field of study, STEM have up to three years on it
• The new guidance does permit international students one class or three distance learning credits per academic session.
• The policy is studied to facilitate seamless transfer between schools by allowing students in state care and custody the ability to move appropriately from one certified educational institution.
• The Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), allows international students to remain in the U.S. and work for a period of time after completing your degree
• STEM students can apply for a 24-month OPT extension if the filing is made within 90 calendar days before their current EAD expires.
• A 60-day grace period to move up a level in their education, transfer to another SEVP-certified school or apply for change of status. 
• Clarification on when STEM OPT extensions may be filed – as soon as 90 days before expiration of current EAD and three times you can use a cap-gap.
• SEVP-certified schools may continue to maintain their student status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) while participating in study abroad programs.