Policy Manual Update: F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification

We announced today that we are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. We are also clarifying guidance for F/M nonimmigrant students concerning online study, school transfers, the grace period, and study abroad. 

What You Need to Know
This guidance, contained in Volume 2, Part F of the USCIS Policy Manual, is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after the publication date. The guidance contained in the Policy Manual is controlling and supersedes any related prior guidance on the topic.  

The policy update: 

• Clarifies that students may count one class or three credits (or the equivalent) per academic session (or the equivalent) toward a full course of study if they take the class online or through distance learning not requiring physical attendance for any purpose integral to completion of the class.    

• Explains that students may transfer between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools at the same educational level, or move between educational levels. 

• Explains that, during the 60-day grace period following an authorized period of post-completion of OPT, students may change their education level, transfer to another SEVP-certified school, or file an application or petition with USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant or immigrant status. 

• Clarifies that students may be eligible for post-completion OPT after completing an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.  

• Corrects the period during which students may apply for STEM OPT extensions and makes other technical corrections.  

• Clarifies that a student enrolled in a SEVP-certified school during a study abroad program may remain active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System if the study abroad program lasts less than five months, but that the student will need a new Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, if the program lasts longer than five months.