The short answer
A STEM OPT job is only valid if the employer is enrolled in E-Verify, signs a Form I-983 training plan with you, employs you directly at 20 or more hours a week, and actually trains and supervises you. If any one of those is missing, the job may not support your STEM extension.
The five-point checklist
| Requirement | What to ask the employer | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| E-Verify enrollment | "Can you share your E-Verify company ID?" | They don't know what E-Verify is |
| EIN and real business | "What is your EIN?" | Company exists only on paper |
| Form I-983 | "Who will sign my training plan and act as my supervisor?" | Nobody can name a supervisor |
| 20+ hours per week | "Is this a full-time W-2 role?" | Hourly gig with no minimum |
| Bona fide relationship | "Who trains me and evaluates my work day to day?" | "The client handles all that" |
Staffing and consulting firms: the rule that matters most
Staffing agencies can employ STEM OPT students, but only if the agency itself provides the training and keeps a real employer-employee relationship. The company that signs your I-983 must be the same company that employs and trains you.
If you're placed at a client site, your employer still needs to supervise and evaluate you. When the client is your real supervisor and the staffing firm is just payroll, the arrangement does not meet STEM OPT rules. USCIS reviews these cases individually, so documentation matters.
- Self-employment or a sole proprietorship you own
- Unpaid or volunteer positions
- 1099 independent contractor arrangements
- Roles unrelated to your STEM degree
What STEM OPT does not allow
How to protect yourself
- Ask the checklist questions before you sign the offer, not after.
- Read page 2 of the I-983 with your employer; it contains the employer's attestations.
- Send the completed I-983 to your DSO before they recommend your STEM extension.
- Report changes within 10 days, including a new employer or a material change to your training plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can a staffing company sign my I-983? Only if it is an E-Verify employer that directly employs, trains and supervises you.
Can I work at a client's office on STEM OPT? It's possible if your employer keeps the bona fide relationship and provides the training. Expect questions and keep records.
Can I have two STEM OPT jobs? Each job must independently meet all requirements, including 20 hours a week and its own I-983.
Looking for STEM OPT roles? Syncra tags jobs that are open to STEM OPT candidates. Browse STEM OPT jobs.
Syncra Talent Solutions is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Confirm eligibility with your DSO.
Sources: San José State ISSS · CU Boulder ISSS (PDF) · Dartmouth OVIS · Kennesaw State (PDF) · CCNY (PDF) · Reddy Neumann Brown
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