List of OPT STEM Degrees

We have received many inquiries in connection with the OPT extension to 29 months for holders of STEM degrees (non-STEM degrees also get some relief under the new OPT rule).  One of the questions asked most often is, “How do I know if my degree is a STEM degree?”

The first step is to find the classification number of your degree.  We are providing a link to the Classification of Educational Programs, provided by the Department of Education.

Once the degree classification is determined, an F-1 or OPT holder should look at the list of STEM degrees which, according to DHS, entitled their holders to an additional term of 17 months.  We are reprinting the DHS list below:

  • Actuarial Science. NCES CIP Code 52.1304
  • Computer Science: NCES CIP Codes 11.xxxx (except Data Entry/Microcomputer Applications, NCES CIP Codes 11.06xx)
  • Engineering: NCES CIP Codes 14.xxxx
  • Engineering Technologies: NCES CIP Codes 15.xxxx
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences: NCES CIP Codes 26.xxxx
  • Mathematics and Statistics: NCES CIP Codes 27.xxxx
  • Military Technologies: NCES CIP Codes 29.xxxx
  • Physical Sciences: NCES CIP Codes 40.xxxx
  • Science Technologies: NCES CIP Codes 41.xxxx
  • Medical Scientist (MS, PhD): NCES CIP Code 51.1401

If your degree’s classification is listed above, then your degree is STEM.

By | Last Updated: May 20th, 2017| Categories: News|

About the Author: Dimo Michailov

Dimo Michailov
Dimo has over 15 years of experience in US immigration including employment-based immigration benefits, corporate compliance and family based immigration. He represents corporate and individual clients in a wide range of cross-border immigration matters including mobility of key foreign executives and managers, specialized knowledge workers, and foreign nationals with extraordinary ability.

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The Capitol Immigration Law Group has been serving the business community for over 15 years and is one of the most widely respected immigration law firms focused solely on U.S. employment-based immigration.   Disclaimer:  we make all efforts to provide timely and accurate information; however, the information in this article may become outdated or may not be applicable to a specific set of facts.  It is not to be construed as legal advice.