Is it possible to get a second STEM OPT extension with a new master's degree?

By Pinal Dave | Last updated: August 5, 2026

TL;DR: Yes. You can only use one 24-month STEM OPT extension per degree level, but earning a new, higher degree in a different qualifying STEM CIP code resets your eligibility — so a student who used STEM OPT on a bachelor's degree can qualify again after completing a master's in a different STEM field.

The evidence

SEVP rules limit STEM OPT extensions to twice in a student's lifetime, but only if each extension is tied to a different, higher-level qualifying STEM degree. This is a frequently confused rule — students often assume STEM OPT is strictly "once ever," when the actual restriction is about degree level and CIP code, not a lifetime cap of one.

Scenario	Second STEM OPT extension allowed?
Bachelor's STEM OPT used, then earn a master's in a different qualifying STEM CIP code	Yes
Bachelor's STEM OPT used, then earn a second bachelor's in a STEM field	No — must be a higher degree level
Master's STEM OPT used, then earn a PhD in a different qualifying STEM CIP code	Yes
Same degree level, same or different STEM CIP code	No
Already used two STEM OPT extensions total	No — SEVP caps lifetime use at two

Step-by-step: qualifying for a second STEM OPT extension

Confirm your new degree is genuinely higher-level than the one that supported your first STEM OPT extension — bachelor's to master's, or master's to PhD, qualifies; a second degree at the same level doesn't.
Check the new degree's CIP code against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List to confirm it's a qualifying STEM field.
Find a new SEVP-registered, E-Verify-enrolled employer willing to complete Form I-983 training plan documentation for the new extension.
File Form I-765 for the new STEM OPT extension within the standard window before your current work authorization expires.
Track your lifetime STEM OPT usage — you're capped at two total extensions across your academic career, regardless of how many qualifying degrees you eventually earn.

FAQ

Can I get STEM OPT twice with degrees at the same level? No. Each STEM OPT extension must be tied to a new, higher academic level than the one used for your prior extension — same-level degrees don't qualify for a second one.

Does the second STEM OPT extension need a different employer? No, it can be the same or a different employer, as long as that employer is SEVP-registered, enrolled in E-Verify, and completes a new Form I-983 training plan for the new degree.

Is there a limit on how many times I can use STEM OPT? Yes. SEVP caps lifetime STEM OPT extensions at two, even if you go on to earn additional qualifying STEM degrees beyond that.