OPT and STEM OPT Vetting, Advising, Supporting: The DSO Role

Monday, October 14, 2024

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM CDT

Location: 202-203

Chair and Presenter(s)

Adam S. Cohen, JD

Partner
Siskind Susser PC
Memphis, Tennessee

Slides

Presenter(s)

Jie Fan, Master of Science

Assistant Director
Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Liz Cosgrove Ford

Associate Director, International Student and Scholar Services
University of North Texas
Denton, Texas

Presentation Description: What is the scope of the DSO role in vetting OPT and STEM OPT employment opportunities? What responsibilities should a DSO have in providing guidance on the student's OPT filing? How can DSOs best support students dealing with OPT Requests for Evidence, such as those questioning STEM CIP and degree mismatches? This panel will discuss model practices for advising on OPT applications and RFEs with use of case examples. We will explore available case law, regulatory language, and guidance in evaluating the risks and benefits of different advising approaches and institutional practices.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the DSO scope when reviewing and evaluating OPT and STEM OPT employment opportunities
Evaluate potential risks and benefits in the process of advising students on their OPT applications submitted to USCIS
Identify best practices in supporting students with OPT Requests for Evidence, especially related to STEM CIP codes