USCIS Revises OPT Guidelines: Key Updates on Online Study and School Transfers
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The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has revised its Policy Manual regarding F-1 and M-1 visas for nonimmigrant students pursuing an extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The rules concerning online study, transfers between schools, grace periods, and studying abroad have changed. These changes apply immediately to all current and new requests.
Online Study Allowances: Students may now consider one class or up to three credits (or the equivalent) per academic session as constituting a full course of study if the delivery of the class did not involve face-to-face instruction as a completion requirement; the class/course was entirely online or distance learning-based.
School Transfers and Changes in Educational Level: The law permits students to transfer between educational institutions within the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) certified Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) at the same level or between different levels.
60-Day Grace Period Flexibility: Students are allowed to change their degree level or programme, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or even apply for a change of status to another nonimmigrant status or an immigrant status within 60 days after the authorised period of post-completion OPT.
Eligibility for Post-Completion OPT: Post-completion OPT is available to students who have earned an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Clarification on the STEM OPT Extension Application Period: The changes to the STEM OPT are minor and involve correcting the period in which eligible students can apply for STEM OPT extensions, along with other technical amendments.
Study Abroad Programme Guidelines:SEVP-certified schools can keep their students enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) if they study abroad for less than five months. For programmes lasting more than five months, the student will require a new Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
Source: BUSINESS STANDARD
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