OPT/STEM OPT Employment Update Form

Why does OPT/STEM OPT employment reporting matter? 

Your status remains F-1 while you engage in OPT/STEM OPT, which means that you are required to report your employment information and ensure your SEVIS record is up-to-date and accurate throughout your time on OPT.  Failure to report this information will indicate that you have exceeded the allotted unemployment days, which may result in termination of your F-1 SEVIS record.  A terminated SEVIS record cancels OPT/STEM OPT authorization and requires you to leave the U.S.  Your SEVIS record is also reviewed during the application process for another visa type, so it is important to meet deadlines and follow requirements closely.

What updates do I need to report?

If you are on OPT, you must:

  • Report your OPT employment information as soon as you start working;
  • Report employment changes within 10 days of changing (new employment, additional employment, unemployment or acquisitions/mergers);
  • Report change of residential address within 10 days of moving;
  • Report final departure from the U.S.;
  • Report change of status to a new visa type.

If you are on STEM OPT (24 month-extension), you must:

  • Adhere to the 6-month reporting requirements associated with STEM OPT, which stipulates that students must confirm their continued employment every 6 months, and submit the appropriate evaluations with the 12- and 24-month reporting requirements.
  • Report employment changes within 10 days of changing (new employment, additional employment, unemployment or acquisitions/mergers);
  • Report change of residential address within 10 days of moving;
  • Report final departure from the U.S.;
  • Report change of status to a new visa type;

How do I report to OIPS?

You report your changes by completing this form. An OIPS advisor will review your submission and update your SEVIS record.

Can I save this form and complete it later on?

No, you cannot save your progress.  Please note that the form has a built-in timer.  You need to submit your form within 45 minutes.  Make sure you gather all your documents before you begin the form.

Accepted file upload formats

Accepted File Upload Formats are pdf, jpeg, png and word doc. We accept documents as scans, screenshots and photos. If the quality of the document is not good (illegible or the entire image wasn't scanned) you will be asked to provide new versions of your documents, which will delay your processing time.

Three important rules

  1. OPT employment can be paid or unpaid.  STEM OPT employment must be paid.
  2. You must work an average of 20 hours or more per week.
  3. You can work only in your field of study and must be able to describe the connection between your assigned tasks and your degree field.

Questions?

Send an email to oipsopt@gmu.edu.