In Progress

1) Program & Degree Strategy (Before / Early in School)

STEM vs non-STEM implications (OPT length, employer appetite)

Non-STEM degrees give you only 12 months of work permission (OPT). STEM degrees give you 36 months (12 months + a 24-month extension). Most US companies are hesitant to hire someone who only has 12 months of work authorization. With 36 months, you have three chances at the H-1B lottery instead of one. This makes you 'cheaper' and 'lower risk' for an employer to hire.

This is the most important visa rule.

Non-STEM degrees give you only 12 months of work permission (OPT).
STEM degrees give you 36 months (12 months + a 24-month extension).
Most US companies are hesitant to hire someone who only has 12 months of work authorization because they might have to sponsor a visa (H-1B) almost immediately. With 36 months, you have three chances at the H-1B lottery instead of one. This makes you "cheaper" and "lower risk" for an employer to hire.

Free Resource: STEM OPT Extension Explained (Official USCIS)

Resources

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