On August 27, 2024, USCIS announced that it has updated its Policy Manual regarding the timeline of when F-1 students are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions for Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. It also clarifies its guidance on online classes, school transfers, grace periods after completing studies, and studying abroad for F/M students. 

 

Some of the policy highlights include:  

• ONLINE COURSES: Clarifies that students can count one online class or three credits towards their full-time study requirement.

• SEVIS TRANSFER: Explains that students can transfer between SEVP-certified schools at the same educational level or move between educational levels. 

• F-1 GRACE PERIOD: Explains that after completing their OPT, students have a 60-day grace period to change their education level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or apply to change their immigration status by filing a petition with USCIS. 

• OPT ELIGIBILITY: Clarifies that students may apply for post-completion OPT after finishing any degree level (associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral). 

• STEM OPT: Corrects the time period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions, including eligibility for a STEM OPT EAD extension based on a previously earned STEM degree and a future STEM degree.  

• STUDY ABROAD: Clarifies that a student enrolled in an ICE SEVP-certified school who studies abroad for less than 5 months may remain active in SEVIS. However, a new Form I-20 is required if the study abroad program lasts longer than 5 months. 

 

This policy guidance is effective immediately.