1. What Is the F-1 STEM OPT Extension? The STEM OPT (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Optional Practical Training) extension is a 24-month addition to the standard 12-month post-completion OPT. It allows F-1 students who have earned degrees in specific STEM fields to gain additional work experience in the U.S. Total Possible OPT: 12 months (initial) + 24 months (STEM extension) = 36 months. Purpose: To provide practical training directly related to the studen

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 international students to gain practical work experience in their field of study. 1. What Is OPT? The main goal is to give students a chance to get real work experience that is connected to what they are studying. This work experience is supposed to be related to the F-1 students major area of study. The idea is to help F-1 students learn things that they can actually use in their careers.