What Is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets F-1 students work in the U.S. in their field of study after completing their degree. Every F-1 graduate is eligible for up to 12 months of OPT per degree level (master's, then again at the PhD level).
The STEM Advantage
Graduates of STEM-designated degree programs can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months of authorized work in the U.S. total — three times the standard period. This is one of the strongest practical advantages of an engineering or computer science degree over many other master's programs.
To qualify for the extension, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you'll submit an official Lehigh transcript, a copy of your diploma, and a training plan (Form I-983) through the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS).
Which Rossin College Programs Qualify?
All engineering and computer science degrees are, as a rule, classified under STEM CIP codes and eligible for the extension. Confirm your specific program's STEM designation with your Graduate Coordinator or OISS.
Full policy and process available through OISS. Contact: intnl@lehigh.edu, (610) 758-4859.
什么是OPT（选择性实习训练）？
STEM专业的独特优势
STEM认证专业的毕业生可申请24个月的STEM OPT延期，使在美合法工作时间总计最长可达36个月——是标准期限的三倍。相较于许多其他硕士项目，这是工程或计算机科学学位最突出的实际优势之一。
申请延期需满足以下条件：您的雇主必须已注册E-Verify系统，同时您需通过国际学生与学者办公室（OISS）提交理海大学官方成绩单、学位证书复印件以及培训计划表（I-983表）。
哪些Rossin工程学院项目符合资格？
原则上，所有工程与计算机科学学位均被归类于STEM相关CIP代码，符合延期申请资格。请与您的研究生项目协调员或OISS确认您所申请项目的具体STEM认证情况。
完整政策与办理流程请咨询OISS。联系方式：intnl@lehigh.edu，(610) 758-4859。
