For many international students, an academic degree from the US represents a pathway to employment, professional experience, and long-term career growth. One of the most strategic choices within that journey is selecting a STEM degree, especially for students who hope to gain work experience in the US after graduation.
However, not all STEM degrees lead to the same employment outcomes. Some majors consistently show higher OPT participation, stronger STEM OPT extension usage, and better long-term retention with US employers. Understanding these differences can help you make a more astute choice before you even step onto campus.
Read on to learn more about STEM full form, how post-grad stay rates work, which STEM majors tend to perform best in 2026, and how you can plan your timeline to maximize your opportunities after graduation.
What Is STEM?
So, what is STEM exactly? The STEM full form is science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In higher education, it refers to degree programs within these fields that emphasize technical, analytical, and innovation-driven skills. From software engineering and data science to advanced manufacturing and biomedical research, STEM education supports some of the fastest-growing sectors in the US economy.
For F-1 students, the value of a STEM degree is closely tied to post-graduation work authorization. Many STEM majors qualify for a 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension in addition to the standard 12 months of OPT. This means eligible graduates may work in the US for up to three years after completing their degree, which creates more time for them to gain experience, build employer relationships, and explore long-term career pathways.
Now that you understand the meaning of STEM full form in education, the next question to answer is: how do outcomes differ across majors, and which STEM fields show more consistent employment outcomes after graduation?
What “Post-Grad Stay Rate” Means
The term “post-grad stay rate” refers to how successfully graduates of a particular STEM major remain in the US workforce after completing their degree.
While this is not an official government metric, it is a practical way to evaluate how different STEM education pathways translate into real employment outcomes. Instead of focusing only on eligibility, this concept looks at actual participation, extension usage, and employer retention patterns. To assess post-grad stay potential, we can look at three indicators:
Metric 1: OPT participation rate
This measures how many graduates of a given STEM major apply for and use their initial 12-month OPT period.
A high OPT participation rate often suggests:
Strong employer demand for that skill set
Clear job alignment with the degree
Graduates securing employment shortly after degree completion
Majors with strong technical clarity such as computer science or engineering often show high participation in this first phase of post-graduation work authorization.
Metric 2: STEM OPT extension rate
The second indicator examines how many eligible students apply for and receive the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Extension rates differ across STEM majors, with some programs demonstrating stronger long-term employer alignment.
Majors with high extension rates typically:
Have strong employer familiarity with the STEM OPT process
Align clearly with DHS-recognized STEM CIP codes
Lead to roles that meet Form I-983 requirements through a structured training plan that outlines how the position connects directly to the student’s STEM degree.
Higher participation in the STEM OPT extension often indicates long-term employer investment in that field.
Metric 3: Bridge outcomes
The third indicator examines whether a STEM major supports continuity after OPT. While the initial 12-month OPT and the 24-month STEM OPT extension provide temporary work authorization, some graduates transition into longer-term employment pathways, including employer-sponsored H-1B status.
Bridge outcomes may include:
Use of the Cap-Gap extension (which allows eligible students to continue working while an H-1B petition is pending)
Employer H-1B petition filings
Continued retention beyond the initial OPT period
While H-1B selection is never guaranteed, analyzing bridge patterns helps illustrate which STEM majors tend to offer more structured progression from graduation to sustained employment.
Together, these metrics provide a clearer picture of which STEM fields tend to offer stronger post-graduation stability. Let us now take a closer look at which STEM majors are popular in 2026.
Top Majors by Post-Grad Stay Rate in 2026 (The Ranked List)
Based on observed OPT participation patterns, STEM OPT extension trends, and broader labor market demand identified by sources such as the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and additional data from OpenDoors, certain STEM majors consistently demonstrate stronger post-graduation retention indicators.
While individual outcomes vary depending on performance, employer demand, and geographic location, the following ranking reflects fields that tend to show higher stay potential in 2026.
Computer science and computing-related fields
Data science, analytics, and statistics
Engineering
Applied mathematics and quantitative programs
Biomedical and bioengineering fields
These majors share several characteristics, including strong technical alignment with industry needs, clear job-role mapping to degree content, and employer familiarity with hiring international STEM graduates. Let’s take a closer look at why these fields tend to lead.
Majors that Tend to Lead the STEM OPT Pack in 2026
Although a wide range of STEM majors qualify for post-graduation work authorization, certain fields consistently show stronger OPT participation and extension trends. These programs tend to align closely with employer demand, technical job roles, and structured training requirements, which can contribute to higher post-grad stay indicators.
Computer science and related computing fields
Computer science consistently ranks at the top of STEM majors for post-graduation stay patterns. This category includes computer science, software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, information systems, and computer engineering.
One major advantage is the clear alignment between degree and job role as graduates often move directly into positions like software developer, data engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or systems architect. Since these roles closely reflect the technical skills developed through STEM coursework, they tend to support high OPT participation and strong STEM OPT extension usage.
Employers in technology-driven industries are also generally familiar with E-Verify requirements and the Form I-983 training plan. Combined with strong cross-industry demand, these factors contribute to some of the highest stay indicators among STEM majors.
Data science, analytics, statistics, and other quantitative fields
Data-focused STEM degrees in data science, statistics, business analytics, applied analytics, and other quantitatively intensive programs also rank consistently at the top for post-graduation stays.
These fields are highly adaptable, with graduates entering roles in finance, healthcare, technology, consulting, logistics, marketing analytics, and operations, which are all sectors that increasingly depend on data-driven decision making. The transferable technical skills developed through these degrees typically create a clear alignment between academic training and job function.
As organizations expand their use of artificial intelligence, automation, and predictive modeling, graduates in analytics-heavy STEM programs remain competitive across multiple industries with labor market projections continuing to show sustained growth in data-driven occupations. For example, the employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Engineering
Engineering continues to show strong post-graduation retention across disciplines such as electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial and systems engineering, and civil engineering. Graduates in these fields typically enter roles with clearly defined technical responsibilities in areas like infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, automation, and product development, which supports steady OPT participation and STEM OPT extension activity.
Another distinguishing factor is industry continuity as engineering employers often work on multi-year projects and long-term capital investments, creating more stable hiring pipelines. While growth rates may not always be as rapid as computing fields, the steady integration of automation, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing continues to support demand for engineering-based STEM graduates.
Many engineering employers also have longstanding experience navigating E-Verify requirements, therefore supporting stable STEM OPT extension participation. With defined technical roles, industry demand, and employer familiarity, engineering continues to rank among the strongest-performing STEM fields for post-graduation retention.
Other high-demand STEM fields
Apart from the traditional computer, data science, and engineering disciplines, several specialized STEM fields also demonstrate strong post-graduation retention patterns due to their technical depth and integration within regulated or research-driven industries. Fields such as actuarial science, applied mathematics, biomedical engineering, bioengineering, and health informatics often serve niche yet critical sectors, including healthcare innovation, biotechnology, medical devices, and advanced research.
Graduates in these areas usually enter roles that require specific domain expertise rather than broad generalist skills. This specialization can support structured training environments, particularly in research institutions, healthcare systems, and technology-driven labs.
Although enrollment numbers in these majors may be smaller than in computer science or data science, strong technical specialization and industry integration help position these STEM fields as viable pathways for OPT. Let us take a more in-depth look as to why certain STEM majors consistently have higher stay rates.
Why Do Some Majors Have Higher Stay Rates?
There are many factors that can affect an international student’s decision to stay in the US after graduation. These include demand for specialized skills, extended practical training opportunities, and stronger pathways to employer-sponsored work visas such as the H-1B visa. These advantages are commonly associated with STEM-related fields.
Strong outcomes in STEM fields: Graduates in STEM fields consistently show higher stay rates. Approximately 73% of graduates in science and engineering between 2017 and 2019 remained in the US five years after graduation. These graduates fill critical workforce needs with skills that are essential for the US economy.
Extended work authorization through STEM OPT: International students in eligible STEM fields qualify for a 24-month extension in addition to the standard 12-month OPT, totaling up to three years to work and stay in the country without an immediate need for a visa sponsor.
Advanced degree advantages: Students who earn a master’s or PhD degree benefit from additional opportunities under the H-1B visa program. Twenty-thousand visas are specifically reserved for this group, making them more likely to secure a long-term stay.
Employer sponsorship demand: Companies in tech and engineering (e.g., Google, Amazon, Microsoft) aggressively hire STEM graduates and are more likely to sponsor them for visas.
Having described which types of majors have higher stay rates, let us look at how to check if your major qualifies for STEM OPT in 2026.
How to Find Out if Your Major Qualifies for STEM OPT in 2026
It is important to note that for international students on F-1 visas, what qualifies as STEM and your eligibility for a STEM OPT extension is determined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and based on your program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code.
A CIP code is a standardized number assigned to every academic program in the US. Think of it as a category label that tells the government exactly what your degree focuses on. Even if two programs have similar names, their CIP codes may differ, and that difference can determine whether a degree qualifies as STEM for OPT purposes.
This is why you should not rely solely on program titles like “Data Analytics” or “Information Management.” Instead, confirm:
The official CIP code listed on your I-20
Whether that code appears on the DHS STEM-designated list
That the classification aligns with your long-term work plans
It is always best to contact your student advisor or DSO if you need further clarifications or have questions. Knowing from the start whether or not your major qualifies for STEM OTP helps ensure that your degree aligns with both your academic interests and post-graduation plans.
Now that we have considered which majors qualify as STEM education and grant OPT, let us take a look at how to plan ahead so you can take advantage of OPT.
Realistic Timelines for 2026 Graduates
As an international student looking to pursue OPT in the US, understanding key application timelines can help you maximize your eligible work authorization period and avoid unnecessary delays.
In order to apply for the STEM OPT extension, you first need to apply and be currently employed in post-completion OPT.
Apply for OPT
Students who did not use OPT during the course of their program may be eligible for up to 12 months of post-completion OPT.
You may apply for post-completion OPT up to 90 days before completing your degree, during your final term, and applications must be submitted no later than 60 days after the program end date listed on the Form I-20.
For more information on how to apply for OPT, please contact your student advisor or DSO.
Preparing for STEM OPT Extension
Approximately three to four months before your listed OPT end date, eligible students should begin preparing their STEM OPT extension application, which involves:
Securing employment with an employer who is listed in the E-Verify program.
Working with your future employer to complete Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.
Submitting the completed Form I-983 to your DSO to receive a new STEM-endorsed I-20 required for your USCIS I-765 application.
Students should submit 90 days before their current EAD expires, and within 60 days of the date their DSO enters the recommendation for OPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Required Documents for STEM OPT Extension Application
When filing for your I-765 application online for STEM OPT extension, you will need the following documents:
STEM OPT I-20: A new I-20 endorsed by your DSO for the STEM extension (signed by you).
Form I-983: Completed and signed Training Plan from your E-Verify employer.
STEM degree proof: Copy of diploma and/or official transcripts showing the STEM field of study.
Passport photos: Two 2x2-inch passport-style photos.
I-94 record: Copy of your most recent electronic I-94 record.
Passport and visa: Copy of your passport biographical page and F-1 visa stamp.
Current EAD card: Copy of your current Post-Completion OPT EAD (front and back).
Previous I-20s: Copies of any previous I-20s issued for CPT or OPT.
Filing fee: A payment method, such as a credit card or a US bank account, to pay for the application.
After Submitting STEM OPT Extension Application
If you submit your application on time, you can continue working for up to 180 days while the extension application is pending.
STEM OPT extension approvals typically arrive within three to five months (approximately 90-150 days) for standard processing and around 30 days for Premium Processing.
You will receive an approval notice in your myUSCIS account, followed by the EAD card by mail.
Maintaining Your Status During STEM OPT
Once you receive a STEM OPT extension and your EAD card, you will be eligible for up to 24 months of STEM OPT. During this period, you must report any changes to the following information to your DSO within 10 days:
Your legal name
Your residential or mailing address
Your email address
Your employer’s name
Your employer’s address
You are also required to confirm this information with your DSO every six months, even if no changes have occurred. For more information, please refer to the USCIS Policy Manual and the DHS STEM OPT Hub or contact your DSO.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on STEM OPT in 2026
Planning for STEM OPT in 2026 often raises practical questions about eligibility, job changes, degree level, and employer requirements. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns international students have when preparing for post-graduation work authorization.
Is my major eligible if my program name changed, but the CIP is the same?
Yes. Eligibility for the STEM OPT extension is based on your program’s CIP code, not just the program title. If your degree name changes but the CIP code listed on your Form I-20 remains on the DHS STEM-designated list, your eligibility is generally unaffected.
Always confirm directly with your DSO as the CIP code printed on your I-20 is what determines whether your degree qualifies under current STEM guidelines.
Can I switch jobs/roles on STEM OPT without risking status?
Yes, but there are requirements. Your new employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you must submit an updated Form I-983 training plan that explains how the new role relates directly to your STEM degree.
The position must also meet minimum compensation standards and reporting requirements. Before changing employers, coordinate with your DSO to ensure you remain in compliance and avoid interruptions to your status.
Does graduate school level matter for stay rates?
Degree level can influence employment outcomes, but it does not automatically determine OPT eligibility. Both bachelor’s and master’s programs in STEM education fields may qualify for the 24-month extension if the CIP code is on the approved list.
In terms of stay rates, graduate-level programs sometimes align with more specialized or leadership-oriented roles, which may affect hiring patterns. However, outcomes depend more on field of study, employer demand, and skill alignment than degree level alone.
What if I can’t find an E-Verify employer in my field?
STEM OPT extension eligibility requires employment with an E-Verify-enrolled employer. If you are struggling to find one, consider broadening your geographic search, exploring adjacent industries, or targeting larger organizations that are more likely to participate in E-Verify.
Networking early, completing internships during your degree, and working closely with your university’s career services team can significantly improve your chances of securing a qualifying employer.
Study at Top US Universities with Shorelight’s Help
Choosing the right STEM major is important, but so is selecting a university that provides strong academic preparation, internship access, and career support.
Several Shorelight US universities offer high-demand STEM education programs across computing, engineering, data science, healthcare innovation, and more. From selecting a qualifying pathway to understanding OPT timelines and compliance requirements, Shorelight advisors can support you at every stage of the journey.
If you are preparing for a future in STEM and want to build a clear academic and professional strategy, connect with a Shorelight advisor to explore programs aligned with your goals.
