In Progress

3) STEM OPT Extension (Your Time Multiplier)

Verify STEM eligibility (check your CIP code)

Not all 'technical' degrees qualify. Your degree's CIP code must be on the official DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Check your I-20—your CIP code is listed there. Here's a powerful hack: if you have a previous STEM degree (even from years ago), you can use it to qualify for STEM OPT on a non-STEM job, as long as the work is related to that STEM field. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify—this is non-negotiable. Before accepting any job offer, verify their E-Verify status at e-verify.gov.

It’s not just working for the university president! There are two main categories:

Direct Employment means jobs where the university pays you directly (Library assistant, TA, RA, administrative offices).
On-Campus Commercial Firms which means private companies that provide direct services to students on campus premises. This includes the campus bookstore, the dining hall, or a Starbucks located inside a campus building.
Working for a construction company building a new dorm on campus does not count, because they don't provide a direct service to students.

Free Resource: Work Options for US International Students: On-Campus, Off-Campus

Resources

Record your progress

Mark this subsection complete to track your progress.