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?

Remember: OIPS is not required to update your record within the same 10-day window students have 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, edits to employment or acquisitions/mergers);
• Report changes of residential address within 10 days of moving;
• Report final departure from the U.S.;
• Report changes 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, edits to employment or acquisitions/mergers);
• Report changes of residential address within 10 days of moving;
• Report final departure from the U.S.;
• Report changes of status to a new visa type;