The limits it uses
The Department of Homeland Security explains the unemployment counter in the SEVIS Help Hub. The limit is 90 days on post-completion OPT. With a STEM OPT extension it is 150 days, and that figure includes any days already counted during post-completion OPT. The 150 days is a total, not a fresh 150.
The same page says SEVIS looks back to the actual OPT start date and counts each day with no employer information on record. It cites 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii)(E) for the rule.
How this tool counts
You enter the start and end dates from your EAD, then each period when you had no employment, first day to last day. The tool counts every calendar day from the first day to the last day, both included, but only the days that fall between your OPT start and end dates. If two periods overlap, a day is counted once.
The tool counts the periods you type in. SEVIS counts from the employment your employer or you reported, so the two numbers can differ. Treat the result as a way to keep your own records and compare them with what your school sees.
Worked example
OPT dates: 1 Jun 2027 to 31 May 2028 Period 1: 1 Jun 2027 to 30 Jun 2027 = 30 days Period 2: 15 Jun 2027 to 14 Jul 2027 = overlaps period 1 Distinct days: 1 Jun to 14 Jul 2027 = 44 Limit (post-completion OPT): 90 Days left: 90 - 44 = 46
If the same person later gets a STEM OPT extension, the limit becomes 150 in total, so the 44 days already used stay counted and 106 would be left.
What it does not do
- It does not decide what counts as employment. Ask your Designated School Official (DSO) about part-time work, self-employment, unpaid work and other cases.
- It does not know about cap-gap periods or other special cases. The DHS page points to a separate article for cap-gap, which this tool does not apply.
- It does not tell you what happens if you go over. Talk to your DSO before that point.
Frequently asked questions
How many unemployment days can I have on OPT?
According to DHS, 90 days on post-completion OPT, and 150 days in total if you have a STEM OPT extension, including days used earlier.
Is the 150 days on top of the 90?
No. DHS says the 150 days includes days accrued on post-completion OPT, so the STEM extension adds 60 days to the 90.
Are weekends and holidays counted?
DHS says SEVIS counts each day with no employer information on record. This tool counts every calendar day in the periods you enter. The DHS page does not spell out edge cases, so ask your DSO about them.
Why can my SEVIS count differ from this tool?
SEVIS counts from the employer information in your record. This tool counts the periods you typed in, so mistakes or late reports on either side change the result.
Where do I find my OPT dates?
On your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. Use the start and end dates printed on the card for the OPT period you are tracking.