STEM OPT Reporting Requirements and Deadlines (6, 12, 18, and 24 Months)
As an F-1 student participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) extension, you are required by federal regulations to follow specific reporting guidelines to maintain your legal status in the United States. These requirements are in place to ensure that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), has the most current information about your employment and contact details during your STEM OPT period. Failure to comply with these reporting obligations may lead to termination of your SEVIS record, loss of work authorization, or other immigration consequences.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the reporting deadlines and the specific documents or updates you must submit to your Designated School Official (DSO) at your university or institution:
- Validation Reports – Every 6 Months
You must submit a validation report to your DSO every six months during the 24-month STEM OPT period. These reports confirm that your current residential address, phone number, and employment information (such as employer name and address, job title, and whether the job is related to your degree) remain accurate and up to date in SEVIS.
These validation reports are due at the following intervals:
6 months
12 months
18 months
24 months
Your DSO must receive each validation report within 10 days of the due date to ensure timely updates in SEVIS.
- Evaluations of Student Progress – 12 and 24 Months
As part of the Form I-983 (“Training Plan for STEM OPT Students”), you are required to complete two formal self-evaluations of your progress at the 12-month and 24-month marks of your STEM OPT period. These evaluations must be submitted to your DSO and included on page 5 of the Form I-983.
12-Month Evaluation: Also called the “Initial Evaluation,” this must be completed 12 months after the start of your STEM OPT authorization. It provides a summary of the skills and knowledge you have gained, your performance, and the progress you’ve made toward your training goals.
24-Month Evaluation: This “Final Evaluation” must be submitted at the end of your STEM OPT period, or when your employment ends—whichever comes first. It assesses your overall growth and achievements throughout the training period.
Each evaluation must be signed by both you and your employer. The DSO will retain these evaluations as part of your SEVIS record.
- Final Evaluation After Leaving a STEM Employer
If you leave a STEM OPT employer before your 24-month authorization period ends, you are still responsible for submitting a final self-evaluation on page 5 of the Form I-983. This final evaluation must be submitted within 10 days of your last day of employment with that STEM employer. This requirement applies whether you switch employers or leave your position permanently.
This process ensures that DHS has an accurate record of your training and employment activities during the STEM OPT period and that your SEVIS record reflects your most recent employment status.
Summary of Reporting Deadlines
TimeframeRequirementDescription6 monthsValidation ReportConfirm address and employer details12 monthsValidation Report & 12-Month EvalUpdate info + submit Initial Self-Evaluation (Form I-983)18 monthsValidation ReportConfirm address and employment details again24 monthsValidation Report & Final EvaluationSubmit Final Self-Evaluation (Form I-983)AnytimeFinal Evaluation (Early Employment End)Submit within 10 days of ending employment with STEM employer
Important Notes
You must report any changes to your employer, job duties, supervisor, or address within 10 days of the change.
All reports and evaluations should be submitted directly to your DSO, who will update your SEVIS record accordingly.
If you fail to comply with these reporting obligations, your SEVIS record could be terminated, and your legal F-1 status and work authorization may be jeopardized.
By staying informed and proactive with your STEM OPT reporting responsibilities, you can ensure a successful and compliant training period in the U.S.
