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How to Find STEM OPT Eligible Employers

Your guide to identifying E-Verify enrolled employers who can hire STEM OPT students and what they need to do.

Finding the right employer for STEM OPT requires more than matching your skills to a job description. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, willing to complete the I-983 Training Plan, and prepared to meet ongoing reporting obligations. Here's how to navigate the process.

The E-Verify Requirement

Every employer who hires a STEM OPT worker must be enrolled in E-Verify, the federal electronic employment verification system. This is a non-negotiable requirement set by DHS. Without active E-Verify enrollment, an employer cannot sign the I-983 form, and your STEM OPT extension cannot be approved.

You can verify whether a company participates in E-Verify by searching the E-Verify employer search tool on the USCIS website. Look for the company's exact legal name — subsidiaries and parent companies may have separate E-Verify accounts.

What Employers Must Do

Hiring a STEM OPT student involves specific responsibilities that go beyond a standard hire:

  • Complete Form I-983: The employer must work with the student to fill out the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. This includes describing learning objectives, the mentorship plan, and how the position directly relates to the student's STEM degree.
  • Pay commensurate wages: The employer must compensate STEM OPT workers at the same level as similarly situated U.S. workers. DHS uses this requirement to prevent exploitation and wage depression.
  • Conduct annual evaluations: At the 12-month mark, the employer must evaluate the student's progress on the I-983 training goals and submit an updated form.
  • Report changes within 10 days: Any material changes to the student's employment — including termination, change in duties, change in hours, or change in work location — must be reported promptly.

How to Find STEM OPT Friendly Employers

Many companies that sponsor H-1B visas are also set up to hire STEM OPT workers, since H-1B sponsors are often already familiar with immigration processes. Strategies for finding these employers include:

  • Search H-1B sponsor databases: Companies with active H-1B filings are more likely to be E-Verify enrolled and immigration-friendly. Wisa's database lets you filter by industry, location, and filing history.
  • Check university career services: Many universities maintain lists of employers who have previously hired OPT and STEM OPT students. Your international student office may also have employer contacts.
  • Look for E-Verify logos: Some employers display the E-Verify logo in job postings or on their careers page, signaling they participate in the program.
  • Network at career fairs: Ask recruiters directly whether the company is enrolled in E-Verify and has experience with STEM OPT hires.

Understanding the I-983 Training Plan

The I-983 is the cornerstone document of the STEM OPT extension. It must demonstrate that your employment is a structured training experience that builds on your STEM degree. The form requires:

  • A description of the student's STEM degree and how it relates to the job.
  • Specific learning goals and objectives for the training period.
  • Details about supervision and mentorship arrangements.
  • An explanation of how the employer will measure progress toward goals.

Both you and your employer sign the I-983, and it must be submitted to your DSO before your STEM OPT extension can be recommended in SEVIS.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if an employer is enrolled in E-Verify?

Visit the E-Verify employer search tool on the USCIS website and search by company name. Make sure you search the exact legal entity name, as large companies may have multiple subsidiaries with separate E-Verify enrollments.

Can a startup hire a STEM OPT student?

Yes, as long as the startup is enrolled in E-Verify and can fulfill all employer obligations including completing the I-983, paying commensurate wages, and providing structured mentorship. Company size does not disqualify an employer.

What if my employer refuses to complete the I-983?

Without a completed I-983, you cannot apply for the STEM OPT extension. If your current employer refuses, you will need to find a new employer willing to complete the form before your initial OPT expires.

Can I work for multiple employers on STEM OPT?

Yes, but each employer must independently meet all STEM OPT requirements — E-Verify enrollment, a separate I-983 Training Plan, and commensurate compensation. Each employer must be reported to your DSO.

Related Guides

STEM OPT Extension ExplainedCompanies That Hire OPT StudentsOPT to H-1B Transition GuideCompanies That Sponsor H-1B Visas