I am currently working on the initial 12-month OPT following my MBA degree. I also have a degree in computer science, which I completed prior to starting my MBA program of study. …

… I heard that, under the 24-month STEM OPT rule, I can extend my OPT based on a previously attained STEM degree. What are the eligibility criteria for such an extension?

Answer

Under the 24-month STEM OPT extension rule, a student is eligible for two lifetime STEM extensions, which must not be consecutive; and the second STEM extension may be based on a previous STEM degree, in some cases. The previous STEM degree should be obtained within 10 years at a U.S. institution of higher education, which is accredited at the time the STEM application is filed. In addition, the STEM employment must be directly related to the STEM degree (i.e. computer science, in your case). (29.Apr.2016)

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