Can you please explain what the F-1 student requirements are under the new STEM OPT rule?

Answer

Under the May 10, 2016 STEM OPT rule, students in designated STEM fields are eligible for the 24-month extension of their first 12 months of post-completion OPT. During the 24-month extension period, the student must report to their DSO every 6 months verifying their employment status and address. Any updates should also be reported within 10 days.

In addition, the student must provide an annual self-evaluation to the DSO on the Form I-983, signed by his or her employer, at the end of the first year and, again, at the conclusion of the STEM OPT regarding his or her progress in training. This is in addition to the initial Form I-983 which must be completed by both the employer and the student employee and submitted to the DSO prior to obtaining recommendation for the OPT STEM extension. (06.May.2016)

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