How long can I stay in the USA after finishing a STEM MFin with the OPT extension?

Question

Divakshi Arora · Accepted Answer

After finishing a STEM MFin in the US, the stay-back period can go up to three years. The first year comes from regular OPT, and the additional two years come from the STEM extension.
This applies as long as the program is officially STEM-designated, regardless of the track or electives someone chooses. The three-year window gives enough time to start in an entry role, build experience, and move into better finance positions without rushing into sponsorship immediately. Many students use this period to work in banking, markets, or analytics because these roles hire consistently during OPT.

S Raghav · Answer

A STEM MFin gives one of the longest stay-back options available for international students in the US.
&bull; Graduates get 12 months of regular OPT, and adding the STEM extension brings it to 36 months in total. &bull; The extension applies to any STEM MFin as long as the employer is E-Verify and the job aligns with the field of study. &bull; Three years is long enough to gain strong finance experience and attempt multiple H-1B lottery cycles, which helps with long-term sponsorship. &bull; After the three-year period, students usually move to an H-1B, an O-1, or explore other visa routes if they haven&rsquo;t secured sponsorship yet.
So the maximum stay after a STEM MFin is three full years.
For more details you can read this blog on  "STEM MFin Programs in USA"