Potential Site Visits by DHS of Employers that Train STEM OPT Students
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) recently released a reminder that the March 2016 STEM OPT rule allows the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct site visits of employers that train STEM OPT students.
As reiterated in the reminder, the purpose of the sites visits is to permit DHS to confirm STEM OPT students are engaged in a structured, work-based learning experience that is consistent with the goals of practical training, and to confirm that the information contained within the student’s Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students” is accurate.
Prior to the site visit, DHS may reach out to the employer by email or phone to request information including but not limited to confirmation of work locations of STEM OPT students and supervisors. More details from DHS about site visits of employers that train STEM OPT students can be found the Study in the States website.
UIC students currently on a period of STEM OPT with questions about this announcement can connect with an OIS Advisor via email at stemopt@uic.edu. UIC departments currently training a student on STEM OPT with questions about this announcement can connect with OIS via email at ois@uic.edu.
Questions? Feel free to contact the Office of International Services.