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I-765GuideSep 21, 2026

STEM OPT vs Regular OPT: Key Differences Explained

Post-completion OPT and the 24-month STEM extension compared: eligibility, employer rules, reporting, fees, and the September 2026 admission change.

Regular OPT gives any F-1 graduate 12 months of work authorization with almost any lawful employer. STEM OPT adds 24 more, but only with a DHS-listed degree, an E-Verify employer, and a Form I-983 training plan. This side-by-side comparison covers eligibility, unemployment limits, reporting, fees, the 180-day pending-case rule, and the September 15, 2026 end of duration of status.