OPT 17 Month Extension Despite Thesis Requirement Before Graduation

The USCIS released a policy memorandum which clarifies the situation where the applicant requests a 17 month STEM OPT extension prior to graduation where there is a thesis requirement to  be fulfilled. The October 6, 2013 memorandum allows F-1 students who are engaging in post- completion OPT to be eligible for a 17-month STEM extension even if they have not yet completed the thesis requirement or equivalent for their STEM degree.

SEVIS User Manual, Volumes I and II, version 6.8 (June 24, 2011) on the cloud

The SEVIS User Manual, Volumes I and II, version 6.8 (June 24, 2011) resides on the STEM Green Cards cloud, used in the administration of the  I-17 (M-1, Volume I) and I-20(F-1, Volume II) systems. SEVIS is the electronic system administered by ICE which is used used by the responsible officers of J-1, F-1 and M-1 nonimmigrant programs to fulfill the legal obligations of their institutions.

Volume I     Volume II

April 2008 USCIS 29 month OPT Q&A added to the cloud

USCIS April 28, 2008 Q&A regarding the 29 month OPT added to the cloud
USCIS OPT Q and A April 2008.pdf

STEM OPT 29 Month Interim Final Rule added to the cloud

STEM OPT 29 Month Interim Rule73 Fed. Reg. 18944 (April 8, 2008) On April 8, 2008, DHS published an interim final rule that changes several key aspects of F-1 optional practical training (OPT).
File: April82008 OPT interimfinal rule.pdf