STEM OPT Reporting Requirement

Changing employers while your STEM OPT EAD application is pending with USCIS is permitted, and you may proceed with your new employer if you wish. If you decide to change employers, you must report the end of your current STEM OPT employment and your new STEM OPT employment through the ISSS portal. Please follow the steps below.

Step 1: Report the end of your current STEM OPT employment on ISSS

1. Click on the existing STEM employment record for the employer you are leaving.
2. Submit the request using the reason code “Changes to Existing Employment – I have departed from my Employer.”
3. Enter your employment end date.
4. Upload the Final Evaluation on Student Progress (Form I-983, Page 5, bottom section).
5. Submit the request.

Step 2: Report your new STEM OPT employer on ISSS

1. Click the red + button under your STEM Employer List.
2. Submit the request using the reason code “New Employment.”
3. Complete all required employer information in the SEVIS Employment Questionnaire.
4. Upload a new Form I-983 completed and signed by you and your new employer. Page 5 should be left blank.
5. Check all required boxes and submit the employment report.

Step 3: Request an updated I-20

Submit a Reprint I-20 Request through the ISSS portal. Please allow up to 10 business days for processing.

Step 4: Upload your updated I-20 to your pending USCIS application

Once you receive your updated I-20 from OGS:

1. Log in to your USCIS online account.
2. Open your pending STEM OPT Form I-765 application.
3. Upload the updated I-20 under “Unsolicited Evidence” along with a letter explaining the change and the new employer’s name and E-Verified number. 
4. Keep a copy of the uploaded document for your records.