USCIS Updates F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification Guidelines
USCIS updates guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for extensions of optional practical training (OPT) for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
This guidance, available in Volume 2, Part F of the Policy Manual, also clarifies guidelines for F/M nonimmigrant students regarding online study, school transfers, grace period, and study abroad.
The update of the Policy Manual:
- Clarifies that students may count one class or three credits (or its equivalent) during each term or semester toward a full course of study if they take the class online or at a distance without requiring physical attendance for any integral purpose at the completion of the class.
- It explains that students may transfer between schools certified by the ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) at the same educational level or move between educational levels.
- It explains that, during the 60-day grace period following an authorized period of post-completion OPT, students may change their educational level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or file an application or petition with USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant or immigrant status.
- Clarifies that students may be eligible for post-completion OPT after completing an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree program.
- Corrects the time period during which students can apply for STEM OPT extensions and makes other technical corrections.
- Clarifies that a student enrolled in an SEVP-certified school during a study abroad program may remain active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System if the study abroad program lasts less than five months, but the student will need a new Form I-20 if the program lasts longer than five months .
This guide is effective immediately and applies to applications pending or filed on or after the date of publication.
For additional information, see the Policy Alert (PDF, 324.65 KB).
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