No—STEM OPT requires paid employment; unpaid roles typically don’t fulfill DHS guidelines.

Only if the unpaid research follows a bona fide employer-employee relationship and a completed Form I-983 exists—it’s rare but possible.

The employer must still be E-Verify enrolled and offer structured training aligned with your STEM degree, even if unpaid.

Most schools and DSOs discourage unpaid STEM OPT roles due to legal and compliance risks under F‑1 regulations.