USCIS announces 17 month OPT extension

[kgkid]

Questions and Answers: USCIS Announces New Rule Allowing Extension of Optional Training Program for Qualified Students

Another link:
NAFSA - 29 Month OPT Rule Updates

MBA falls under the Engineering Technologies. I will be following up with my international office but I am pretty sure MBA falls in this category of STEM professionals because the I-20 refers it as "Business Administration and Management"

If you look at the combined stem list then this degree is recognized under section 15.1502. Look at the elaborate list at
http://blogs.ilw.com/gregsiskind/fil..._stem_list.pdf

15.15 Engineering-Related Fields. (NEW)
----- Business Administration and Management. (Report under 52.0201)

So I am 99% sure this is good news for MBA folks. But, please follow up with your international office too at the university to get a clearer picture.

[kgkid]

Mr. Moderator:
This could be a sticky! Your thoughts?

[kbharadwaj811]

@ KGKID are you sure MBA graduates are covered??? The PDF file that you posted does not seem to have any official stamp on it. With the info posted across various forums the MBA graduates do not qualify under STEM.I have mailed my ISO for conformation yet to receive a reply.

[kk.iyer]

No MBA's will not be eligible for the extensions...read below..

1) The eligible CIP codes for the extensions include...
Engineering Technologies: NCES CIP Codes 15.xxxx

View Page # 16 on...
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/press_opt_ifr.pdf

2) CIP information can be found at...
http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2002/2002165_2.pdf

The "-----" mentioned under 15.1502 is just a cross reference..read above PDF.

Cross-references. Cross-references or crosswalks are provided to refer the CIP user to
codes/programs within the CIP. Their primary purpose is to refer the CIP user to a more appropriate code/classification for use in reporting a program. Cross-references are located immediately program that they are related to and are preceded by 5 dashes in the place where a CIP code appear. The title of the Series or program that the CIP user is referred to is listed, followed under ...) instruction that indicates which program should be considered for use. Cross-references made to specific programs (i.e., 6-digit programs) or to 4- or 2-digit groups.

Example 1: 14.0701 Chemical Engineering
----- Chemistry. (Report under 40.05 Series)
----- Chemical Technology/Technician. (Report under 41.0301)

The MBA is mentioned as a mere reference to ensure that you are sure of the CIP code for your degree.

Lastly the I-20 you receive should have a CIP code like 52.XXXXX which is clearly not listed on the official release.

Unfortunately...MBA's will not be eligible. However, if you are pursuing a degree like Masters in Engg. Mgmt (MEM) you would be.

[kgkid]

Well, we will know if there is such thing in few weeks. Moreover, I am sure the b-schools will also push for this.

[Mike75]

I have an MBA and noticed that the Extending Period of Optional Practical Training by 17 Months for F-1 Nonimmigrant Students only with STEM degrees. What about MBAs ????

MBAs and future students we can submit our comments to the Department of Homeland Security to review this interim rule.
Here is the information:
http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=DocumentDetail&o=090000648046e418
I talked with my international advisor so that he can also submit and help us.

Mike

[mkarthik01]

So what is the conclusion?

From what i read on the websites (quick glance), MBAs are not eligible.
OPT for MBAs is still 1 year...

[puhrince]

I got this from an MBA student who said MBA does not qualify for the new rule - the update is below.

NAFSA - DHS STEM Designated Degree Programs