The University of Massachusetts (UMass) is a renowned institution that attracts international students from around the world, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). For international students who graduate with a STEM degree from UMass, maintaining their visa status is crucial to pursue their career goals in the United States. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how UMass STEM OPT graduates can maintain their visa status correctly.
Understanding the F-1 Visa and OPT
International students who come to the United States to pursue higher education are typically issued an F-1 visa. The F-1 visa allows students to stay in the United States for the duration of their academic program, plus any authorized practical training. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months. For STEM graduates, the OPT period can be extended by an additional 24 months, totaling 36 months.
To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, graduates must have earned a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in a STEM field, such as engineering, computer science, or mathematics. They must also have a valid F-1 visa and be currently authorized for OPT. Employment authorization is a critical aspect of maintaining visa status, and STEM OPT graduates must ensure that their employer is registered with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and that they are working in a STEM-related field.
Reporting Requirements for STEM OPT Graduates
STEM OPT graduates are required to report certain information to their Designated School Official (DSO) and USCIS to maintain their visa status. This includes:
- Valid immigration status
- Employment authorization
- Change of address or employer
- Any changes to their employment or education status
STEM OPT graduates must also submit a validation report to their DSO every 6 months, confirming their employment and address information. Failure to report this information can result in the termination of their OPT authorization and potentially affect their visa status.
| Reporting Requirement | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Validation report | Every 6 months |
| Change of address or employer | Within 10 days |
| Any changes to employment or education status | Within 10 days |
Maintaining Visa Status
To maintain their visa status, STEM OPT graduates must ensure that they are complying with all the requirements of their F-1 visa and OPT authorization. This includes:
Maintaining valid immigration status: STEM OPT graduates must ensure that their F-1 visa is valid and that they are authorized for OPT. They must also ensure that their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended stay in the United States.
Employment authorization: STEM OPT graduates must have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and be working in a STEM-related field. They must also ensure that their employer is registered with USCIS and that they are complying with all the terms of their employment authorization.
Complying with reporting requirements: STEM OPT graduates must comply with all the reporting requirements, including submitting validation reports and reporting any changes to their employment or education status.
Consequences of Failing to Maintain Visa Status
Failure to maintain visa status can result in severe consequences, including:
- Loss of employment authorization
- Termination of OPT authorization
- Deportation from the United States
- Ineligibility for future immigration benefits
It is essential for STEM OPT graduates to understand the consequences of failing to maintain their visa status and to take all necessary steps to comply with the requirements of their F-1 visa and OPT authorization.
What is the purpose of the STEM OPT extension?
+The STEM OPT extension allows international students who graduate with a STEM degree to work in the United States for an additional 24 months, totaling 36 months. This extension provides students with more time to gain practical experience in their field of study and to pursue their career goals in the United States.
How do I apply for the STEM OPT extension?
+To apply for the STEM OPT extension, you must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS. You must also provide required documentation, including a copy of your diploma, transcripts, and a letter from your employer. Your DSO must also recommend the STEM OPT extension in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
What are the reporting requirements for STEM OPT graduates?
+STEM OPT graduates are required to report certain information to their DSO and USCIS, including validation reports every 6 months, changes of address or employer, and any changes to their employment or education status. Failure to report this information can result in the termination of their OPT authorization and potentially affect their visa status.
