To attract and retain International students’ talent in America, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on May 11th, 2012 announced that it is expanding the list of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math ) designated degrees that qualify for 24 months OPT (Optional Practical Training) Extension. This article covers all details related to the same.
What is STEM Degree List ? 24 Months OPT Extension?
The STEM Designated Degree Program list is a complete list of fields of study that DHS considers to be science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields of study for purposes of the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension.
F1 students who have graduated with a degree that is part of the STEM Degree list are eligible to extend their OPT for an additional 24 months after their 12-month OPT duration is complete. In total, this gives an F1 student 36 months to work in the US.
Eligibility for 24 months STEM OPT?
For F1 students to be eligible for 24 month OPT extension, they need to have their degree program’s CIP code match with one of the below in the list. You can check more details at What is CIP Code? How to Check CIP Code for your Degree. If the degree you graduated with does not have the relevant CIP code on the I-20, then you cannot avail of the 24-month OPT. Also, you need to be in proper F1 status to avail of the STEM OPT.
Complete List of STEM OPT Degrees by DHS
Below is the complete list of STEM Designated Degrees eligible for 24-month OPT as of the most recent update by DHS.
CIP Code Two-Digit Series
2020 CIP Code
CIP Code Title
01
01.0308
Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture.
01
01.0901
Animal Sciences, General.
01
01.0902
Agricultural Animal Breeding.
01
01.0903
Animal Health.
01
01.0904
Animal Nutrition.
01
01.0905
Dairy Science.
01
01.0906
Livestock Management.
01
01.0907
Poultry Science.
01
01.0999
Animal Sciences, Other.
01
01.1001
Food Science.
01
01.1002
Food Technology and Processing.
01
01.1099
Food Science and Technology, Other.
01
01.1101
Plant Sciences, General.
01
01.1102
Agronomy and Crop Science.
01
01.1103
Horticultural Science.
01
01.1104
Agricultural and Horticultural Plant Breeding.
01
01.1105
Plant Protection and Integrated Pest Management.
01
01.1106
Range Science and Management.
01
01.1199
Plant Sciences, Other.
01
01.1201
Soil Science and Agronomy, General.
01
01.1202
Soil Chemistry and Physics.
01
01.1203
Soil Microbiology.
01
01.1299
Soil Sciences, Other.
01
01.8105
Veterinary Anatomy. Moved from51.2502.
01
01.8106
Veterinary Infectious Diseases. Movedfrom51.2511.
01
01.8107
Veterinary Microbiology and Immunobiology. Moved from51.2504.
01
01.8108
Veterinary Pathology and Pathobiology. Moved from 51.2505.
01
01.8109
Veterinary Physiology. Moved from51.2503.
01
01.8110
Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health. Movedfrom 51.2510.
01
01.8111
Veterinary Toxicology and Pharmacology. Moved from 51.2506.
03
03.0101
Natural Resources/Conservation, General.
03
03.0103
Environmental Studies.
03
03.0104
Environmental Science.
03
03.0199
Natural Resources Conservation and Research, Other.
03
03.0205
Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management.
03
03.0502
Forest Sciences and Biology.
03
03.0508
Urban Forestry.
03
03.0509
Wood Science and Wood Products/Pulp and Paper Technology/Technician.
03
03.0601
Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management.
04
04.0902
Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology.
09
09.0702
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.
10
10.0304
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.
Turjo, It depends on the school and the CIP Code. You should ask the graduate school you are applying to share the CIP code and verify the same in the list above in the article.
I am very happy to have completed this course. I got a lot of new knowledge on the topic of STEM. The organization of the course is very well structured and prepared. Watching a video is a pleasure. Thanks a lot for the opportunity to get better.
English for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is a great online course I have studied. It’s amazing to learn more about the use of English language, the proper way of delivering one’s speech or article. This course encourages learners to deeply understand the importance of science which is focused on renewable resources that could help eliminate the harmful gases causing our planet’s temperature high. I am looking forward to accessing some free online courses for personal development and insight. Thank you.
nikitha, It all varies by school and the program they have tied to a CIP Code. Check with the school you plan to apply and ask them for CIP code. Read What is CIP Code ? STEM CIP Codes
Komal, It varies by the school. You can check the list above ( link in article), if you find anything. You need the CIP code of the program for the same. So ask for CIP code, where you plan to apply and then cross verify the same.
Do Certifications for Java, SQL, and other languages fall under STEM? I am not asking in terms of OPT. I am asking this as I have these certifications and am currently on H4 EAD but want to change to H1B. I have an MBA degree in Marketing and Management but started coding and I do have these Certifications. Do you think these will suffice the need for for H1B? The work experience as a coder is almost 4 years now.
I am doing Masters in Public Health and my major is Environmental health science. MPH does not come under STEM but my major comes under STEM list, so would i be able to get STEM extension
There are so many variations and it always depends on the school. Check with the graduate school on the code, where you are applying to get it confirmed.
hello everyone! I just wanted to ask whether you get jobs if you do MIS in USA from a average university because of low gre scores. Also, Is MS in CS include core programmimg and Managable to students who have done Information Technology as their bachelors.
Karan, if you are not in top 10, it does not really matter. Getting job is a tricky thing and depends on many factors and your hardwork, cannot give a generic answer. I suggest you check the article MS in CS vs MS in MIS in USA
I have a roommate that is wanting to do an OPT STEM extension and he got a graduate degree in MIS from Northern Illinois University. Is there any way to get his extension so he can continue to work here in the US? The DHS has denied his app based on the MIS degree not qualifying as a STEM degree. I feel bad for him and would like to help.
i am a dentist & now i want to go to US to do either MASTERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH OR MASTERS IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION but i am not sure about the OPT WHETHER IT WOULD BE FOR 12 MONTHS OR 29 MONTHS?
CAN YOU PLEASE TELL ME HOW DIFFICULT IT IS TO GET H1 B AFTER THIS COURSE?
I have done Master of Physical therapy from India. Currently, I am on F2 visa in USA. I want to apply for the master degree program like Master of Athletic Training or Master of Science in Kinesiology. My concerns are can I get the OPT and H1b visa at the end of study. Please, guide me.
hi ritika.. m also preparing 4 gre n going 2 do m.s in engineering mngmt…i m certain bout it being a stem course..but not certain bout its job prospect..add me on facebook by name pawan vatsya for further discussion bout the course n job prospect in u.s.a ..or search by email .. marinerpawan4u at yahoo(dot)com on fb.. bi
hi ritika.. m also preparing 4 gre n going 2 do m.s in engineering mngmt…i m certain bout it being a stem course..but not certain bout its job prospect..add me on facebook by name… pawan vatsya …for further discussion bout the course n job prospect in u.s.a ..
I am planning to do ms in mis, 1)Do it have STEM DEGREE? 2)california state univ -los angeles doey have stem degree in ms in mis? 3)university of houston clear lake have Stem Degree in ms in mis?
Hi, quick question. I studied Interior Architecture for my Bachelor’s, Do you think it’s worth it for me to try to apply for the degree of Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology (#12) STEM OPT extension?
I know it’s very different but do you think it’s worth a try
Hello… I am having a doubt and hopefully any one of you can clarify this for me… I am doing Masters in Business Administration with Major as Management Information Systems… Hence, I would like to know as my major is Information Systems would this degree be considered a part of STEM?
Hi. I have the same situation as you. I am planning to take up MBA in MIS. Wanted to know if it qualifies for extension. Please kindly let me know. Thanks
Hi I graduated with Accounting degree in 2011 may and my opt is expiring this month. i found this job who is applying for my H1B visa this week after my LCA approval gets back from DOL. my question here is my bachelors in accounting counts in stem if not can i wait for my premium processing H1b results and then apply for cap-gap. to make sure it got approved and if God forbid it doesn’t get an approval can i go back to F1 status Is there a grace time period after OPT expiration to go back to f1 status instead of apply for cap-gap and losing a privilege of getting F1 status back completely in case of H1B rejection
Maryam, You will be eligible for cap-gap once your petition reaches USCIS and it has been filed w/ COS w/ start date of Oct 1. Even if your petition is under process and OPT expires, you can continue to stay and work. Just let your DSO know about this. However, if H-1 is filed after the OPT has expired (i.e. during the 60 day grace period), then you are authorized to stay but not work. Again, you need to inform your DSO accordingly.
I don’t know if you can move to another school during that 60 day grace period.
I graduated May 2011 with a degree that wasnt in STEM at that time. However it has now been included in STEM as per this notice. I am still in my OPT (expires this month) Can I apply for STEM extension?
1. My Degree is in Economics with a code of 45. 0601. The STEM degree is Econometrics and Quantati…46. 0603. What can I do to get this changed? (Note: my university does not have 45.0603) What are my options?
2. I cannot apply for H1 anymore, my OPT expires on Jan 31st 2013. What are the options to stay in the country?
Thank you for your feedback! a lot of appreciation your way.
I have double major in International business and Business economics with a minor in Information system.
Questions: 1. Am i allowed for STEM extension as i see on #77 on the list for newly added STEM degrees, Quantitative economics is added.
2. Does having a minor in IS qualify me for STEM
If no to both ot the above questions: My opt expires 5th Sept and i am yet to apply for h1b do you suggest me to apply for premium petition or regular depending on the rate the quota is being filled.
Secondly, what is the process for applying for cap-gap (i think i will need this since opt expires in Sept and h1b starts Oct 1st)?
Lastly, i read a lot of times you saying h1b with COS what does “COS” stand for and what does it mean?
Thanks a lot i had a lot of general questions which were answered by reading others questions. The above are more specific to my situation thus asking.
Abhi, I am not sure about the STEM thing, and you should check w/ your DSO. However, if the list includes your QE degree, then you should be fine.
Answers to your remaining questions: – You can apply now in regular processing. If the petition doesn’t get approved by (let’s say) Sep end, then you can upgrade it to PP so that you get the decision before Oct – As long as petition has been filed w/ COS w/ start date of Oct 1, you are eligible for cap-gap. Once the petition gets filed, let your school DSO know and they would update the status in SEVIS record – COS stands for change of status. Your current visa status is F-1 and it needs to change to H-1 for you to start working on H-1. So when the H-1 petition is filed, employer will have to file it w/ COS. Once approved, your status will change to H-1 from COS approval date which is typically Oct 1
Hi, I am an IT engineer and will be traveling to USA on the H1B visa in later this year.. My wife is a physiotherapist and I wish that she can either study or work there while I am working in USA (Massachutes, Boston). Please suggest how can my wife apply for study or work permit when I get my H1b stamped in October.
Is Master of science in Administration stem degree?? please tell me.
Turjo,
It depends on the school and the CIP Code. You should ask the graduate school you are applying to share the CIP code and verify the same in the list above in the article.
Hi
Iam applying for the Ms data science with CIP code 11.0401 in UHCL.
Is it come under 24 month OPT extention ?
Regards,
Sivaram
I am very happy to have completed this course. I got a lot of new knowledge on the topic of STEM. The organization of the course is very well structured and prepared. Watching a video is a pleasure. Thanks a lot for the opportunity to get better.
English for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is a great online course I have studied. It’s amazing to learn more about the use of English language, the proper way of delivering one’s speech or article. This course encourages learners to deeply understand the importance of science which is focused on renewable resources that could help eliminate the harmful gases causing our planet’s temperature high. I am looking forward to accessing some free online courses for personal development and insight. Thank you.
hello!
Does masters in health care management in USA comes under stem category? please let me know?
nikitha,
It all varies by school and the program they have tied to a CIP Code. Check with the school you plan to apply and ask them for CIP code. Read What is CIP Code ? STEM CIP Codes
Hi,
Does Exercise Physiology graduate program falls into STEM category?
Komal,
It varies by the school. You can check the list above ( link in article), if you find anything. You need the CIP code of the program for the same. So ask for CIP code, where you plan to apply and then cross verify the same.
Do Certifications for Java, SQL, and other languages fall under STEM? I am not asking in terms of OPT. I am asking this as I have these certifications and am currently on H4 EAD but want to change to H1B.
I have an MBA degree in Marketing and Management but started coding and I do have these Certifications. Do you think these will suffice the need for for H1B? The work experience as a coder is almost 4 years now.
No, they do not fall under STEM category. You need to get a degree from a US school that has the CIP Code that falls under STEM. Read What is CIP Code
Rinny,
I am doing Masters in Public Health and my major is Environmental health science. MPH does not come under STEM but my major comes under STEM list, so would i be able to get STEM extension
My degree MPH has a non-STEM CIP code, but my major is Epidemiology which is a STEM field. Can I get OPT extension on that basis?
Sailee,
In general, you should have your degree CIP code in it. Your Graduate school can clarify, if your degree falls under STEM or not.
Hello,
I need to know is Healthcare Informatics included in STEM courses.
There are so many variations and it always depends on the school. Check with the graduate school on the code, where you are applying to get it confirmed.
Hi,
I’m planning to do MS in Organizational Behaviour and Managament. Is this under STEM category?
Is a degree in Analytics or say Business Analytics considered as a STEM degree ?
hello everyone!
I just wanted to ask whether you get jobs if you do MIS in USA from a average university because of low gre scores.
Also, Is MS in CS include core programmimg and Managable to students who have done Information Technology as their bachelors.
Karan, if you are not in top 10, it does not really matter. Getting job is a tricky thing and depends on many factors and your hardwork, cannot give a generic answer. I suggest you check the article MS in CS vs MS in MIS in USA
I have a roommate that is wanting to do an OPT STEM extension and he got a graduate degree in MIS from Northern Illinois University. Is there any way to get his extension so he can continue to work here in the US? The DHS has denied his app based on the MIS degree not qualifying as a STEM degree. I feel bad for him and would like to help.
i am a dentist & now i want to go to US to do either MASTERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH OR MASTERS IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION but i am not sure about the OPT WHETHER IT WOULD BE FOR 12 MONTHS OR 29 MONTHS?
CAN YOU PLEASE TELL ME HOW DIFFICULT IT IS TO GET H1 B AFTER THIS COURSE?
i am a dentist & now i want to go to US to do either MASTERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH OR MASTERS IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION but i am not sure about the OPT
I have done Master of Physical therapy from India. Currently, I am on F2 visa in USA. I want to apply for the master degree program like Master of Athletic Training or Master of Science in Kinesiology. My concerns are can I get the OPT and H1b visa at the end of study. Please, guide me.
Hi!
Does a M.Arch from an American University qualify for STEM extension?
Thank you in advance.
Hi,
need to know if masters in Clinical research a stem course??
Hi Srikanth,
Wanted to know whether MS in Clinical Research is a STEM course or not?
If possible can you please suggest good universities for it.
Thanks!
You should ask the school or check the CIP code of the degree in school website and then check in the list of STEM degrees list.
Hello Everyone,
I come from a commerce background(non technical), Can i get admission in MS/MBA in MIS STEM Accredited Degree in USA ??
Hi,
need to know if masters in Engineering management (MEM) a stem course??
hi ritika.. m also preparing 4 gre n going 2 do m.s in engineering mngmt…i m certain bout it being a stem course..but not certain bout its job prospect..add me on facebook by name pawan vatsya for further discussion bout the course n job prospect in u.s.a ..or search by email .. marinerpawan4u at yahoo(dot)com on fb.. bi
hi ritika.. m also preparing 4 gre n going 2 do m.s in engineering mngmt…i m certain bout it being a stem course..but not certain bout its job prospect..add me on facebook by name… pawan vatsya …for further discussion bout the course n job prospect in u.s.a ..
I am planning to do ms in mis,
1)Do it have STEM DEGREE?
2)california state univ -los angeles doey have stem degree in ms in mis?
3)university of houston clear lake have Stem Degree in ms in mis?
I have a PhD in Agriculture majoring Agronomy. Do I have the privileges those STEM degrees get?
It depends on your degree code. Check your I-20 (last page) or ask your international office.
Thanks for the information. Very useful.
Hi, quick question.
I studied Interior Architecture for my Bachelor’s,
Do you think it’s worth it for me to try to apply for the degree of Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology (#12) STEM OPT extension?
I know it’s very different but do you think it’s worth a try
Hi Catherine,
Were you able to figure out if interior architecture qualifies for OPT extension? I’m in the same boat.Let me know,
Thanks..
Hi
I am selecting MBA IT management from Wester Governors University, UT.
Is this graduate program comes under STEM designated program.
Thanks
Jay
Hello… I am having a doubt and hopefully any one of you can clarify this for me…
I am doing Masters in Business Administration with Major as Management Information Systems… Hence, I would like to know as my major is Information Systems would this degree be considered a part of STEM?
Thanks and regards,
Mohammed
Hi. I have the same situation as you. I am planning to take up MBA in MIS. Wanted to know if it qualifies for extension. Please kindly let me know. Thanks
Georgia College was recently had two new undergraduate majors added to the STEM extension list:
Computer Science (CIP 110101)
Management Information Systems (CIP 521399)
Hello JWYNN,
Is Graduate major for Management Information Systems is also a STEM program?
Neeraj,
You need to check the CIP code for correct information. Speak to your graduate school and get the info.
hi,
Can anybody tell me that M.B.A. in phamaceutical managment students are allowed for OPT extension?
Hi
I graduated with Accounting degree in 2011 may and my opt is expiring this month.
i found this job who is applying for my H1B visa this week after my LCA approval gets back from DOL.
my question here is my bachelors in accounting counts in stem if not
can i wait for my premium processing H1b results and then apply for cap-gap.
to make sure it got approved and if God forbid it doesn’t get an approval can i go back to F1 status
Is there a grace time period after OPT expiration to go back to f1 status instead of apply for cap-gap and losing a privilege of getting F1 status back completely
in case of H1B rejection
please advise
Maryam,
You will be eligible for cap-gap once your petition reaches USCIS and it has been filed w/ COS w/ start date of Oct 1. Even if your petition is under process and OPT expires, you can continue to stay and work. Just let your DSO know about this. However, if H-1 is filed after the OPT has expired (i.e. during the 60 day grace period), then you are authorized to stay but not work. Again, you need to inform your DSO accordingly.
I don’t know if you can move to another school during that 60 day grace period.
I graduated May 2011 with a degree that wasnt in STEM at that time. However it has now been included in STEM as per this notice. I am still in my OPT (expires this month)
Can I apply for STEM extension?
Saurabh,
You should be eligible now. You can check w/ your DSO as well.
Hi Saurabh,
1. My Degree is in Economics with a code of 45. 0601.
The STEM degree is Econometrics and Quantati…46. 0603. What can I do to get this changed?
(Note: my university does not have 45.0603) What are my options?
2. I cannot apply for H1 anymore, my OPT expires on Jan 31st 2013. What are the options to stay in the country?
Thank you for your feedback! a lot of appreciation your way.
Anonymous,
1. You will have to talk to your DSO or attorney about this
2. You can enroll in another school/course and continue to stay on F-1
Hey,
would you, please, share your results on 1. with me by email? I’m in exact same situation 45.0601 to 45.0603 (one digit off!! argh!!!)
Hi Kumar,
I have double major in International business and Business economics with a minor in Information system.
Questions:
1. Am i allowed for STEM extension as i see on #77 on the list for newly added STEM degrees, Quantitative economics is added.
2. Does having a minor in IS qualify me for STEM
If no to both ot the above questions:
My opt expires 5th Sept and i am yet to apply for h1b do you suggest me to apply for premium petition or regular depending on the rate the quota is being filled.
Secondly, what is the process for applying for cap-gap (i think i will need this since opt expires in Sept and h1b starts Oct 1st)?
Lastly, i read a lot of times you saying h1b with COS what does “COS” stand for and what does it mean?
Thanks a lot i had a lot of general questions which were answered by reading others questions. The above are more specific to my situation thus asking.
Thanks for your help.
Abhi,
I am not sure about the STEM thing, and you should check w/ your DSO. However, if the list includes your QE degree, then you should be fine.
Answers to your remaining questions:
– You can apply now in regular processing. If the petition doesn’t get approved by (let’s say) Sep end, then you can upgrade it to PP so that you get the decision before Oct
– As long as petition has been filed w/ COS w/ start date of Oct 1, you are eligible for cap-gap. Once the petition gets filed, let your school DSO know and they would update the status in SEVIS record
– COS stands for change of status. Your current visa status is F-1 and it needs to change to H-1 for you to start working on H-1. So when the H-1 petition is filed, employer will have to file it w/ COS. Once approved, your status will change to H-1 from COS approval date which is typically Oct 1
Hi,
I am an IT engineer and will be traveling to USA on the H1B visa in later this year.. My wife is a physiotherapist and I wish that she can either study or work there while I am working in USA (Massachutes, Boston). Please suggest how can my wife apply for study or work permit when I get my H1b stamped in October.
Please guide.
She cannot work on H4 visa, but she can study in USA on H4 visa. Read this article : Advantages of Studying on H4 visa
If my Bachelors is from STEM field in India and Masters Degree from USA but not included in STEM branches, then am i eligible for STEM OPT extension?
Swetha,
No you will not be. Your degree from US have to part the STEM designated degree