This is the list of Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes designated by ICE as science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) degrees for the purpose of approving a 17-month STEM extension of optional practical training (OPT) under the provisions of 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)(C).

The list posted by SEVP is sorted by both code number and alphabetically by field. The version of the list prepared by NAFSA, below, includes the full NCEP description of the field.

In order for F-1 students to qualify for this 17-month extension, the code for the student's degree program must be on this list.

Note: CIP Codes ending in 99 are excluded from this list, according to the supplementary information preceding the interim final rule. DHS described codes ending in 99 as "catch-all" categories usually designated by "Other" in the CIP lists. Degrees associated with CIP codes ending in 99 would not be eligible for the 17-month extension according to that DHS statement.

SEVP's CIP Code list states that "To suggest a change to the list of STEM designated degrees, write to sevis.source@dhs.gov, with STEM Code Change Request in the subject line. Please include your name, phone number, organizational affiliation, the code(s) you would like to see added and the rationale for the addition. Change requests will be reviewed by ICE in conjunction with the Department of Education and other advisors."

The first STEM Designated Program List posted on the DHS Web site inadvertently omitted code 14.2501, Petroleum Engineering. SEVP corrected this omission in its latest posting of the list, which now properly lists code 14.2501. However, the latest SEVP list now omits code 14.0701, Chemical Engineering, which we believe is another inadvertent omission. NAFSA has contacted SEVIS.source to report this.

Please see http://www.greencardapply.com/news/news08/news08_0515.htm