Home/Student visas/OPT/USCIS Updates Guidance for F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification

USCIS Updates Guidance for F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification

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Informational only, not legal advice. Confirm deadlines on the official notice or with a qualified professional.

USCIS updated its policy manual guidance on optional practical training (OPT) eligibility for F and M nonimmigrant students, specifically regarding STEM field OPT extensions. The updated guidance clarifies when students may qualify for extended practical training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. Students and designated school officials should review the new guidance to understand current eligibility requirements.
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USCIS

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We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

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May 2026

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