Client Alert!
There has been an update with the guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
This update clarifies the guidance for F/M nonimmigrant students concerning online study, school transfers, the grace period, and study abroad which can be found in Volume 2, Part F, of the Policy Manual.
The Policy Manual update:
•Students are permitted to count one class or three credits (or the equivalent) per academic session (or the equivalent) toward a full course of study for an online class or through distance learning, even if physical attendance is not required.
•Students are permitted to transfer between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified, schools at the same education level, or move between educational levels.
•Students are permitted to change their educational level, transfer to another SEVP-certified schools, or file an application or petition with USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant or immigrant status, during the 60-day grace period following an authorized period of post-completion of OPT.
•Students may be eligible for post-completion OPT after competition of an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.
•Revised and corrected the period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions.
•Students may remain active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System if the student is enrolled in a SEVP-certified school during a student abroad program that lasts less than five months. If the student qualifies with the above referenced requirements but is participating in a study abroad program that lasts longer than five months, then the student will need a new Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
The Policy Manual update is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after the publication date.
Click the link for more information.
