This extension will be available to F-1 students with degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics who are employed by businesses enrolled in the E-Verify Program.  This benefit was granted on the eve of an H-1B blackout until October 1, 2008 for H-1B applicants subject to the annual 65,000 H-1B limit and on the eve of an expected receipt by USCIS of more than 120,000 H-1B cap subject petitions between April 1 and April 7, 2008 and will prove a great benefit to employers who are struggling to remain globally competitive.  The program requirements are listed in the DOS Press Release.