STEM vs. Non-STEM: Is the extra OPT worth it for Nepali students?
If you’re a postgraduate student from Nepal considering a master’s program in the U.S., you’ve probably heard that STEM programs come with a big immigration advantage. They offer up to 36 months of work through optional practical training (OPT), while non-STEM programs only allow 12 months.
This article breaks down the key differences between STEM and non-STEM programs and what Nepali students should think about before choosing one over the other.
What counts as a STEM program in the U.S.?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. But not every program with “technology” or “science” in the name qualifies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security keeps an official list of programs that are eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
Some common STEM degrees:
- Computer science
- Data analytics
- Mechanical, civil or electrical engineering
- Biochemistry and biomedical science
- Mathematics or statistics
- Environmental science
- Artificial intelligence and robotics
Some business or economics programs also qualify if they are math-heavy, like business analytics or quantitative finance. Always check if your exact program code appears on the STEM Designated Degree Program List before assuming you’ll get the extension.
What’s the real difference between 12 and 36 months of OPT?
All F-1 students can apply for 12 months of OPT after completing their degree. If your degree is STEM eligible and your job meets certain requirements, you can apply for a 24-month extension.
That means STEM grads can legally work in the U.S. for three years after graduating, compared to just one year for non-STEM grads.
Here’s why that matters:
- More time to build your resume
You have three hiring cycles, not just one, to find the right OPT job for international students. This gives you more chances to gain experience and earn a strong recommendation.
- Better chance at H-1B sponsorship
The H-1B visa is granted through a lottery system. With three years of OPT, you can apply up to three times before needing a different plan.
- More time to earn and save
STEM grads have more time to repay loans, build savings or send money home to family.
- More flexibility if your first job isn’t perfect
A non-STEM grad has to switch to another visa within a year. STEM grads have more time to grow into better roles.
For many Nepali students who take out education loans or need time to establish financial independence, that extra time can make a big difference.
MPOWER Financing helps Nepali students across STEM and non-STEM fields
Whether you’re pursuing computer science or public health, all international students face the same core challenge: funding their education without relying on family assets or a U.S. cosigner.
MPOWER Financing supports Nepali students in both STEM and non-STEM programs through:
- No-cosigner student loans based on your future earning potential
- Loans for over 500 U.S. and Canadian universities
- Fixed interest rates with no hidden fees
- STEM scholarships, including awards for women in STEM and global leadership
- The Path2Success program, offering career resources, visa prep and job search guidance
If you’re in a STEM program, MPOWER can help you make the most of your OPT time with resources that support long-term planning. If you’re in a non-STEM field, MPOWER can help you stay financially secure while you build a faster path to employment.
Whichever direction you choose, having the right financial and career tools behind you can make the experience more manageable and rewarding.
Is a STEM program always the better choice?
Not necessarily. Here are some things to consider before choosing STEM only for the extra OPT:
- Cost and difficulty
Some STEM programs are longer or more expensive. They may also require stronger math or programming skills.
- Interest and strengths
If you’re not excited about coding, data or lab work, a STEM degree may not be a good fit, even if it offers longer work time.
- Career fit
Some non-STEM fields also offer strong job paths. For example, international education, design, public health or management roles can still lead to H-1B sponsorship with the right employer.
- Mental health and balance
A challenging STEM degree can be rewarding, but it also adds pressure. Don’t choose a path you’ll struggle to finish just for visa time.
The best choice depends on what you want to do after graduation. If your career goals already align with STEM, the extra OPT is a bonus. If not, it may be better to choose a non-STEM field where you’ll excel and enjoy the work.
