To be eligible for a STEM OPT extension, the student's employer must be registered in E-Verify and must use the system to verify all new employees. While Temple University is registered in the E-Verify system, Temple does not use the system to verify all new employees, only those that are working on a Federal Contract. This means that Temple does not allow individuals to work here using a STEM OPT Employment Authorization Document as proof of US Work Authorization. This is not an ISSS policy but rather a Temple University Human Resources matter. Department Chairs with questions regarding STEM OPT Employment can speak with Karen Ward in HR for clarification.

Hiring Departments will need to speak with ISSS about alternate work authorization, such as H-1B, TN, E-3 or O-1 status.

8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)(C)(5)

(5) Employer qualification. The student’s employer is enrolled in E-Verify, as evidenced by either a valid E-Verify Company Identification number or, if the employer is using an employer agent to create its E-Verify cases, a valid E-Verify Client Company Identification number, and the employer remains a participant in good standing with E-Verify, as determined by USCIS. An employer must also have an employer identification number (EIN) used for tax purposes.

If the employer participates directly, it will have an E-Verify company identification number; if the employer participates through an E-Verify Third Party Agent, the employer will have an E-Verify client company number. After enrolling in E-Verify, an employer must use E-Verify to comply with its I-9 and employment verification obligations for all new hires, U.S. as well as alien.