The STEM Extension of OPT is a benefit to allow students who have earned a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics field to extend a period of approved post-completion OPT for 24 months. Students may request a STEM Extension of their 12-month OPT two times in their lifetime; it is not possible to request a STEM Extension of pre-completion OPT, as a separate benefit, or to further extend a STEM Extension. Review the STEM OPT Hub for more information to help school officials, F-1 students, and employers understand the regulations.
You are eligible to apply for the STEM Extension if you meet the following conditions:
- You are currently in an approved period of post-completion OPT
- You earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a designated STEM field
- You are employed by an employer who is registered and in good standing with E-Verify
Below is a list of degrees at Portland State University that are STEM-designated according to the Department of Homeland Security.
PSU STEM Majors
Note that degree offerings can change over time and our office may not always be informed of changes. To be certain your program of interest is currently offered at Portland State, you can browse programs or contact the department directly.
Browse Academic Programs
Receiving a STEM degree is only part of meeting eligibility for the OPT STEM extension. Meet with your international student advisor early and often to understand how to maintain status and eligibility for the STEM extension of OPT.