Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel while my OPT or STEM OPT application is pending?
OPT:
Traveling while your Post-Completion OPT application is pending can be risky if you have not yet received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and/or you do not yet have a job offer.
If you travel outside the U.S. while your OPT application is pending, you must re-enter with:
- Your valid F-1 visa.
- A valid passport.
- Your I-20 with a recent travel signature.
- USCIS Receipt Notice (Form I-797).
- (If approved) Your EAD card and job offer letter.
Recommendation: It is safest to avoid travel until your OPT is approved and you have received your EAD card and job offer.
STEM OPT:
If you are on STEM OPT and your extension is pending but your initial OPT is still valid, you may travel and re-enter using:
- EAD card (still valid),
- I-20 with STEM OPT recommendation and travel signature (within last 6 months),
- Valid passport and F-1 visa,
- Employer letter confirming continued employment.
Tip: Always consult with your DSO before traveling.
What happens if I change employers while on STEM OPT?
You can change employers during your 24-month STEM OPT extension, but you must meet the following conditions:
- The new employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
- You must submit a new Form I-983 (Training Plan) for the new employer before starting the job.
- You must report the change to your DSO within 10 days of switching employers.
To Do Immediately After Switching Employers:
- Submit a new Form I-983 for your new employer.
- Update your employer information in the SEVP Portal or through your DSO.
- Ensure your new position is related to your STEM degree and meets all compliance requirements.
Important: Failure to report employer changes may result in a violation of your F-1 status.
Is unpaid work allowed on OPT or CPT?
OPT (including STEM OPT):
- Unpaid work is allowed, but it must:
- Be directly related to your major.
- Involve at least 20 hours per week.
- Be with a legitimate employer (not just volunteer work at random).
- Include written documentation (e.g., offer letter, internship agreement).
CPT:
- CPT is intended for paid or credit-bearing internships.
- You must still be authorized by your DSO and have CPT approval before you start, whether it is paid or unpaid.
Best Practice: Always document unpaid work with a supervisor’s letter and discuss with your DSO in advance.
What reporting is required during STEM OPT?
STEM OPT students must comply with strict reporting requirements to maintain valid F-1 status. You must report the following:
Every 6 Months (Validation Reports):
- Confirm your address, employer, and employment status (even if nothing has changed).
12 and 24 Months (Form I-983 Evaluations):
- Submit two self-evaluations using the Form I-983:
- First at 12 months.
- Final evaluation at the end of STEM OPT (24 months or upon early completion).
If Any of the Following Occur (Report within 10 Days):
- Change of employer.
- Loss of employment.
- Change in address, phone number, or email.
- Any material changes to your Form I-983 training plan.
Reporting Methods:
- Through the SEVP Portal, or
- Directly to your Designated School Official (DSO) at dso@potomac.edu.
