OPT STEM Extension Program
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are essential to U.S. economic competitiveness and growth, and the demand for qualified workers in these fields is higher than ever.
Under the traditional Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, international students on an F-1 Visa who graduate from colleges and universities in the U.S. can remain in the country for up to 12 months to gain professional work experience. However, the OPT STEM Extension Program allows international students who graduate from a designated STEM degree program to remain in the U.S. for an additional 24 months post-graduation to participate in on-the-job training within high-demand STEM fields. In addition to the 12 months that all programs provide, STEM students can apply for 36 months (three years) of OPT, making it possible for them to remain stateside longer and establish their careers while helping meet the nationwide demand for STEM-educated professionals.
Below is a list of Fairfield University’s STEM-designated undergraduate and graduate degree programs eligible for the OPT STEM Extension Program.
