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New Degree Fields Added to the F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training Program

By July 14, 2023June 10th, 2025Immigration Law Changes &  New Law
Science and technology

On July 12, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security added eight new degree fields to the F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program in hopes of appealing to additional foreign STEM talent. The STEM OPT program grants thirty-six months of work authorization to qualifying students with STEM degrees. The program was extended to include the following fields:

  • Composite Materials Technology/Technician
  • Demography and Population Studies
  • Developmental and Adolescent Psychology
  • Geospatial Intelligence
  • Institutional Research
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Linguistics and Computer Science
  • Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering Technology/Technician

Learn more about STEM OPT here:

What is the maximum period of time I can be unemployed on OPT? What is the maximum period of time I can be unemployed on STEM OPT?

What are the reporting requirements when I am on OPT and STEM OPT?

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