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Greetings!
On October 6, 2013, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ("USCIS") released a memo on eligibility for the 17 month extension of work authorization for people in F-1 Optional Practical Training ("OPT") status that have completed studies in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math ("STEM"). The USCIS memo clarifies that an individual who is still working toward completing his or her thesis (or equivalent requirement) may nevertheless qualify for the 17 month extension of work authorization.
Students in F-1 status are generally eligible for post-completion OPT (and thus work authorization) for one year "after completion of all course requirements for the degree." The one year of OPT, however, does not apply to students in English language training programs.
Students who have completed all course requirements toward STEM degrees, and who are working for employers that have enrolled in E-Verify, may receive a one-time 17 month extension of work authorization. Therefore, students with STEM degrees may be eligible for a total of 29 months of work authorization (initial 12 months plus 17 month extension) upon completion of their studies.
Students often graduate and begin working for an employer in F-1/OPT status before the employer sponsors them for H-1B status and, eventually, a green card.
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Contact Jacob L. Ratzan, P.A. with questions regarding work authorization and immigration status for individuals with university degrees.
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