OPT & STEM OPT Reporting Requirements: Complete DSO Guide
Maintaining status on OPT requires strict reporting discipline. From updating your residential address to validating your STEM OPT employment, here is the comprehensive guide on what, when, and how to report.
TL;DR / Quick Answer
You must report changes to your name, address, or employer within 10 days. If you are on STEM OPT, you must also complete 6-month validation reports and annual self-evaluations using Form I-983. Report these via the SEVP Portal or directly to your DSO.
Key Takeaway
The 10-day window starts from the actual day the change occurs (e.g., your first day of work or the day you move), not when you receive confirmation.
Source: DHS Study in the States
In This Guide
OPT Reporting Timeline Checklist
Use this timeline checklist to stay compliant throughout your post-completion OPT and STEM OPT:
Within 10 Days of Moving
Report your new residential address and mailing address.
Within 10 Days of Starting Work
Report employer name, EIN, address, job title, and relation to major.
Every 6 Months (STEM OPT only)
Submit validation report confirming current address and employment information.
At 12 Months (STEM OPT only)
Submit first annual evaluation (page 5 of Form I-983) signed by employer.
At 24 Months (STEM OPT only)
Submit final self-evaluation (page 5 of Form I-983) upon program completion.
What Changes Must Be Reported?
Federal regulations require you to keep your SEVIS profile accurate. You must report:
Personal Changes
- • New home address
- • Change of legal name
- • Primary phone number
- • Active email address
Employment Changes
- • Employer legal name
- • Employment address
- • Loss of employment
- • Change in hours per week
Track Deadlines Automatically
TrackMyOPT sends automated alerts for your 6-month validation reports and annual self-evaluation milestones so you never miss a deadline.
Create Free AccountRelated Guides
Written by the TrackMyOPT Team
Our team includes former F-1 students who navigated OPT, STEM OPT, and H-1B transitions firsthand. We combine lived immigration experience with data from USCIS, ICE.gov, and 2,500+ student users to create the most accurate and practical guides for international students in the US.