On Sept. 14, 2026, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a nationwide preliminary injunction indefinitely postponing the effective date of the new U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule intended to establish a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that would impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. Northwestern is monitoring this case and any further developments, and we will continue to provide updates as appropriate.

While on OPT & STEM OPT

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) requires schools to maintain certain information in SEVIS for all students currently on approved OPT (Optional Practical Training). As an F-1 student on OPT or STEM OPT, you continue to be under Northwestern University's sponsorship. As such, OISS continues to maintain your SEVIS record so that you remain in valid visa status.

Select the correct box below that describes your status (OPT or STEM OPT) to find information on the following topics and more:

Employment and unemployment
Rules and reporting requirements
Travel while on OPT/STEM OPT
Practical matters while on OPT/STEM OPT
Accessing the SEVP portal and the OISS portal

Applying for OPT or STEM OPT?

If you are looking for information on applying for OPT or STEM OPT, please see Apply for OPT or Apply for STEM OPT.

While on OPT

For students currently participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT).

OPT
reporting requirements & rules

While on STEM OPT

For students currently participating in STEM OPT Extension.

STEM OPT
reporting requirements & rules