In a February 27, 2008 notice to SEVIS schools, SEVP announced that it was preparing to begin an OPT (Optional Practical Training) data validation exercise. The notice states that PDSOs (Principal Designated School Officials) will receive a second e-mail that "will have specific instructions for updating SEVIS and an Excel spreadsheet with the name and address of students currently on OPT information to make the task of contacting students easier."

The notice further states "by May 15, 2008, all schools should ensure that the employer information (name and address) and the student's address is current for all students on OPT. Schools do not need to send a separate report - the only obligation is to update SEVIS."

Additional information will be posted on NAFSA's OPT Data Validation Update Page as it is received.