Students participating in a 24-month science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) optional practical training (OPT) extension may train with multiple employers as long as they maintain compliance with all STEM OPT regulations.
This means STEM OPT students must meet all eligibility and reporting requirements for each employer, including but not limited to:
- Completing a Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Student,” for each employer.
- Training for at least 20 hours per week with each employer.
- Receiving compensation from each employer.
- Submitting all required self-evaluations about the progress of each training experience to their designated school official.
Each employer that a STEM OPT student trains with must be a bona fide employer that can sign the Form I-983 and is enrolled in U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ E-Verify program.
Remember, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security may conduct site visits to any employer training STEM OPT students. In addition, if a STEM OPT student believes that any of their employers are not complying with the 24-month STEM OPT extension regulations, the student is encouraged to contact the Student and Exchange Visitor Program or report violations online.
Do you have additional questions about STEM OPT? Check out the recording of the SEVP Ask the Experts Webinar: Form I-983 held on Oct. 19, or visit the Study in the States STEM OPT Hub to learn more.
