17 month STEM OPT Extension without finishing Thesis
The purpose of this policy memorandum (PM) is to clarify the eligibility requirements for a 17-monthextension of Post-Completion OPT for F-1 students enrolled in STEM degree programs.
Can a student in a graduate-level program who has completed all program requirements, aside from thesis or equivalent, apply for either pre-completion OPT or post-completion OPT?
Yes, a student who only has the thesis or equivalent remaining may either apply for pre- completion OPT or post-completion OPT while completing the thesis/dissertation.
if a student in this situation applies for post-completion OPT, he or she:
• Would be eligible for the cap gap extension.
• May apply for the 17-month extension if otherwise eligible. [emphasis added]
• Would be subject to the unemployment provisions.
• Would be unable to receive an extension of his or her course of study.
For CPT, OPT Guidance visit MSinUS CPT/OPT Articles >>
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