The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant update to its policy manual, clarifying the eligibility requirements for Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions for international students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The revised guidance also provides important information for nonimmigrant students on F and M visas regarding online study, school transfers, grace periods, and study abroad programs.
The new guidance, now effective immediately, is detailed in Volume 2, Part F of the USCIS Policy Manual. It applies to all pending and future requests filed on or after the publication date. This updated policy is now the controlling authority and supersedes any previous guidance on these topics.
One of the key updates allows students to count one class or three credits per academic session towards their full course of study if the class is taken online or through distance learning, provided that the course does not require physical attendance for any purpose essential to completing the class. This change offers greater flexibility for students managing their course loads.
The update also clarifies the rules for school transfers and educational level changes. Students are now allowed to transfer between SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)-certified schools at the same educational level or move between different educational levels. This provides students with more options to adjust their academic paths without jeopardizing their visa status.
During the 60-day grace period following the completion of an authorized period of post-completion OPT, students are permitted to change their educational level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or file an application with USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant or immigrant status. This grace period is a critical time for students to make decisions about their future in the U.S.
Additionally, the update reaffirms that students who have completed an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program may be eligible for post-completion OPT. It also corrects the application period for STEM OPT extensions and includes other technical updates to streamline the process.
For students enrolled in a study abroad program at an SEVP-certified school, the update clarifies that their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record can remain active if the study abroad program lasts less than five months. However, if the program exceeds five months, students will be required to obtain a new Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
These updates are designed to provide clearer and more flexible guidelines for international students navigating their academic and post-academic careers in the United States, ensuring they can maintain their status and pursue opportunities such as OPT and STEM OPT extensions.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
