July 2025 Updates: OPT/STEM OPT & H-1B

Hey there!

If you're currently on OPT or STEM OPT, there’s a lot happening in the immigration world that could affect your next move - whether that’s extending your work authorization, switching jobs, or preparing for the H-1B transition.

We’ve broken down what’s new, what you need to be doing now, and what to expect over the coming months.

STEM OPT: Final 90 Days? Time to Act

If you’re in a STEM field and nearing the end of your initial 12-month OPT period, you are eligible to extend your stay and work authorization by an additional 24 months through the STEM OPT extension.

To apply, you’ll need to:

• Have a qualifying STEM degree from a SEVP-certified U.S. school

• Work in a role directly related to your field of study

• Be employed by an organization enrolled in E-Verify

• Complete and submit a Form I-983 training plan with your employer

Applications must be submitted within the final 90 days of your OPT period, and the earlier you file, the better. Recent processing times for STEM OPT are averaging 1–2 months, though this can vary depending on volume and time of year.

Remember: during STEM OPT, you’re allowed up to 60 additional days of unemployment - bringing your total allowed unemployment time (OPT + STEM OPT) to 150 days. Any change in your job or employment status should be reported to your DSO within 10 days, along with an updated Form I-983 if you switch roles or employers.

H-1B Visa Updates: New Rules in Effect

If your next goal is transitioning from OPT/STEM OPT to an H-1B work visa, here’s what’s changed this year - and what you should plan for:

Earlier this year, USCIS introduced a modernized H-1B registration system to reduce duplicate entries and improve fairness in the lottery. Now, each applicant can only be entered once in the lottery, regardless of how many employers want to sponsor them. If selected, only one employer will be allowed to submit the petition.

Starting January 2025, employers are also required to use a new version of Form I-129, and the H-1B registration fee has increased to $215. Online collaboration tools are being tested to streamline filing and reduce paperwork issues.

In an exciting move for international entrepreneurs, USCIS clarified that H-1B holders can now own more than 50% of their sponsoring company, as long as they work in a qualifying specialty occupation and meet employer-employee requirements.

As of recent regulatory changes, the Cap-Gap extension automatically allows eligible F-1 students to continue working through September 30 and now extends work authorization up to April 1 of the following fiscal year. This significantly reduces the risk of employment interruption, especially if the H-1B petition is still pending review or delayed.

If you weren’t selected this year, the FY 2025 cap (85,000 slots total) is already filled. The next lottery is expected to open in March 2026.

Not on OPT/STEM-OPT or H-1B? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.

Staying in Status: Your Checklist

We know how complicated things can feel - and how quickly deadlines come up. If you're navigating OPT, STEM OPT, or preparing for an H-1B, here’s what you should be doing now:

• Apply early for your STEM OPT if you’re within the 90-day eligibility window

• Track your deadlines for unemployment limits and extension filings

• Check your employer’s E-Verify status before accepting a job or internship

• Stay in close touch with your DSO, especially when changing jobs or updating work addresses

• Start building a plan for 2026 if your next H-1B lottery attempt is coming up

There are also increasing conversations in Congress around the future of OPT/STEM OPT programs. While no changes are confirmed as of July 2025, we recommend staying informed through reliable channels like USCIS. Roam will continue keeping you in the loop through this newsletter - because every update matters.

Need Some Clarity?

If you’re navigating OPT or STEM OPT and feeling overwhelmed - we’re here to help.

You can book a 30-minute 1:1 mentorship call with a Roam advisor to talk through anything you’re stuck on. We’ll help you make sense of the process, your options, and your next steps. Common topics we cover:

• OPT and STEM OPT timelines and requirements

• Resume editing, job search tips, and recruiter outreach

• Career and visa options beyond OPT (if H-1B wasn’t selected)

• Any other questions on work authorization or life after graduation

You don’t have to figure this all out alone.

👉 Book a Mentorship Call

Final Thoughts

Whether you're hoping to stay longer through STEM OPT or trying to land that dream job with H-1B sponsorship, you're not alone in the uncertainty.

What matters most is knowing your options, staying on top of timelines, and advocating for yourself every step of the way.

You've already made it this far - and we're here to help with the rest.

Until next week,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡