U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services updated its Policy Manual guidance on when nonimmigrant students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions in STEM fields.

Key Points:

  • The updated guidance clarified when nonimmigrant students may count credit for online/distance learning classes and their eligibility for post-completion OPT after finishing associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree programs.
  • The update explained transfer options between Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified schools and education levels.
  • The new guidance also corrected the period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions and explained options available to individuals during the 60-day grace period following completion of OPT.

Additional Information: Further details about this updated USCIS Policy Manual guidance are available here.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice Group.

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