The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in STEM fields. This form outlines the training and learning objectives for the student’s employment, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. To get started on filling out the I-983 form, click the button below.
The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the training and employment of international students in the United States, particularly those on F-1 visas participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). This form is designed to outline the training plan for students, ensuring that their work aligns with their field of study and provides valuable hands-on experience. It requires detailed information about the employer, the nature of the training, and the student's goals, emphasizing the importance of a structured learning environment. Additionally, the form facilitates communication between the student, the employer, and the educational institution, ensuring that all parties are aware of their responsibilities. By completing the I-983, students can demonstrate how their practical training will enhance their academic experience and contribute to their professional development. Understanding the components and requirements of this form is essential for both students and employers to navigate the complexities of the OPT process effectively.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS
OMB APPROVAL NO. 1653-0054 EXPIRATION DATE: 5/31/2025
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT)
SECTION 1: STUDENT INFORMATION (Completed by Student)
Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name):
Student Email Address:
Name of School Recommending
Name of School Where STEM
SEVIS School Code of School Recommending STEM OPT (including 3-
STEM OPT:
Degree Was Earned:
digit suffix):
Designated School Official (DSO) Name and Contact Information:
Student SEVIS ID No.:
STEM OPT Requested Period (mm-dd-yyyy):
From:
To:
Qualifying Major and Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Code:
Level/Type of Qualifying Degree:
Date Awarded (mm-dd-yyyy):
Based on Prior Degree?
Yes
Employment Authorization Number:
No
SECTION 2: STUDENT CERTIFICATION
I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements and information made herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that the law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.
I certify that:
1.I have reviewed, understand, and will adhere to this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (“Plan”);
2.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity if I believe that my employer is not providing me with appropriate training as delineated on this Plan;
3.I understand that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may deny, revoke, or terminate the STEM OPT of students whom DHS determines are not engaging in OPT in compliance with the law, including the STEM OPT of students who are not, or whose employers are not, complying with this Plan;
4.My practical training opportunity is directly related to the STEM degree that qualifies me for the STEM OPT extension; and
5.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity regarding any material changes to or deviations from this Plan, including but not limited to, any change of Employer Identification Number resulting from a corporate restructuring, any nontrivial reduction in compensation from the amount previously submitted on the Plan that is not tied to a reductio n in hours worked, any significant decrease in hours per week that I engage in a STEM training opportunity, and any decrease in hours below the 20-hours-per-week minimum required under this rule.
Signature of Student:
Printed Name of Student:
Date (mm-dd-yyyy):
ICE Form I-983 (7/16)
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SECTION 3: EMPLOYER INFORMATION (Completed by Employer)
Employer Name:
Street Address:
Suite:
Employer Website URL:
City:
State:
ZIP Code:
Employer ID Number (EIN):
Number of Full-Time
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code:
Employees in U.S.:
OPT Hours Per Week (must be at least 20
Compensation:
hours/week):
A. Salary Amount and Frequency:
B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):
1.
2.
3.
4.
SECTION 4: EMPLOYER CERTIFICATION
I certify on behalf of the employer that this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (“Plan”) is approved and that:
1.I have reviewed and understand this Plan, and I will ensure that the supervising Official follows this Plan;
2.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity regarding any material changes to this Plan, including but not limited to, any change of Employer Identification Number resulting from a corporate restructuring, any reduction in compensation from the amount previously submitted on the Plan that is not tied to a reduction in hours worked, any significant decrease in hours per week that a student engages in a STEM training opportunity, and any decrease in hours below the 20-hours-per-week minimum required under this rule;
3.Within five business days of the termination or departure of the student during the authorized period of OPT, I will report such termination or departure to the DSO (Note: business days do not include federal holidays or weekend days; and an employer shall consider a student to have departed when the employer knows the student has left the practical training opportunity, or when the student has not reported for practical training for a period of five consecutive business days without the consent of the employer); and
4.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214), which include, but are not limited to, the following:
a.The student’s practical training opportunity is directly related to the STEM degree that qualifies the student for the STEM OPT extension, and the position offered to the student achieves the objectives of his or her participation in this training program;
b.The student will receive on-site supervision and training, consistent with this Plan, by experienced and knowledgeable staff;
c.The employer has sufficient resources and personnel to provide the specified training program set forth in this Plan, and the employer is prepared to implement that program, including at the location(s) identified in this Plan;
d.The student on a STEM OPT extension will not replace a full- or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker. The terms and conditions of the STEM practical training opportunity—including duties, hours, and compensation—are commensurate with the terms and conditions applicable to the employer’s similarly situated U.S. workers or, if the employer does not employ and has not recently employed more than two similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment, the terms and conditions of other similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment; and
e.The training conducted pursuant to this Plan complies with all applicable Federal and State requirements relating to employment.
Note: DHS may, at its discretion, conduct a site visit of the employer to ensure that program requirements are being met, including that the employer possesses and maintains the ability and resources to provide structured and guided work-based learning experiences consistent with this Plan.
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name of Employing Organization:
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SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)
EMPLOYER SITE INFORMATION
Site Name:
Name of Official:
Official's Email:
Site Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):
Official's Title:
Official's Phone Number:
Note: for the remaining fields in this section, employers who already have an internal/pre-existing training plan in place may fill in the details based on that plan.
Student Role: Describe the student's role with the employer and how that role is directly related to enhancing the student's knowledge obtained through his or her qualifying STEM degree.
Goals and Objectives: Describe how the assignment(s) with the employer will help the student achieve his or her specific objectives for work-based learning related to his or her STEM degree. The description must both specify the student's goals regarding specific knowledge, skills, or techniques as well as the means by which they will be achieved.
Employer Oversight: Explain how the employer provides oversight and supervision of individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such oversight and supervision, please describe.
Measures and Assessments: Explain how the employer measures and confirms whether individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student are acquiring new knowledge and skills. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such measures and assessments, please describe.
Page 3 of 5
Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.
SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
Employer Official with Signatory Authority - I certify that:
1.I have reviewed, understand, and will follow this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (Plan);
2.I will conduct the required periodic evaluations of the student;*
3.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214.2(f)(10)(ii)); and
4.I will notify the DSO regarding any material changes to or material deviations from this Plan at the earliest available opportunity, including if I believe the student is not receiving appropriate training as delineated in this Plan.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITIES: Section 101(a)(15)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, as amended (INA), 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(F), Section 641 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA), Pub. L. 104-208, Div. C, 110 Stat. 3009-546 (codified at 8 U.S.C. 1372), Section 502 of the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, Pub. L. 107-173, 116 Stat. 543 (codified at 8 U.S.C. 1762) and Homeland Security Presidential Directive No. 2 (HSPD-2), authorize U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to collect the information requested in this form.
PURPOSE: The information collection on this form is used to assist in the administration of the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension so that Designated School Officials (DSO) can properly recommend the Student for and review and help coordinate his or her STEM optional practical training opportunity.
ROUTINE USES: The information collected on this form may be shared with: the individuals who signed the Plan, relevant DSOs acting as liaisons with the DHS, Federal, State, local, or foreign government entities for law enforcement purposes, Members of Congress in response to requests on the Student’s behalf, or as otherwise authorized pursuant to its published Privacy Act system of records notice - Privacy Act of 1974: U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, DHS/ICE-001 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) System of Records (https://www.dhs.gov/system-records-notices-sorns).
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the information requested on this form may delay or prevent participation in a STEM OPT opportunity.
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT
The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 7.5 hours per response, including time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary documentation, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, send them to: U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Policy, 500 12th Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20536
*See evaluation forms that follow for student’s first evaluation, to occur before the one year anniversary of the start date of the student’s STEM OPT employment authorization, and final program evaluation.
Page 4 of 5
EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Provide a self-evaluation of your performance, using the measures previously identified, in applying and acquiring new knowledge, skills, and competencies identified in the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. Discuss accomplishments, successful projects, overall contributions, etc., during this review period. Address whether there are any modifications to the objectives and goals for projects, or new areas for skill and competency development.
Range of Evaluation Dates: From (mm-dd-yyyy):
To (mm-dd-yyyy):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:Date (mm-dd-yyyy):
Page 5 of 5
Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your application process. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to the appropriate office, ensuring that all sections are filled out accurately. This will help facilitate your application and ensure that it is processed in a timely manner.
What is the ICE I-983 form?
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a document required for students applying for the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training extension. This form outlines the training and learning objectives of the student’s employment, ensuring that the experience aligns with their field of study. It serves as a guide for both the student and their employer, detailing how the training will enhance the student’s academic knowledge and skills.
Who needs to complete the I-983 form?
Students who are on F-1 visas and wish to apply for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) under the STEM category must complete the I-983 form. This requirement applies to those who have a qualifying degree in a STEM field and are currently engaged in post-completion OPT. Both the student and their employer must collaborate to fill out the form accurately.
What information is required on the I-983 form?
The I-983 form requires detailed information about the student, the employer, and the training program. Key sections include the student’s personal information, the employer’s details, and a comprehensive description of the training plan. This includes the goals of the training, how the training relates to the student’s degree, the methods of supervision, and how the employer will provide feedback and evaluation. Each section must be completed thoughtfully to ensure clarity and compliance with the requirements.
How is the I-983 form submitted?
The completed I-983 form is submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO will review the form to ensure it meets all requirements and is consistent with the student’s academic program. Once approved, the DSO will update the student’s SEVIS record and provide a new Form I-20, which the student will then use to apply for the STEM OPT extension with USCIS.
What should I do if my training plan changes?
If there are any significant changes to the training plan, the student must update the I-983 form and submit the revised version to their DSO within 10 days of the change. Changes may include modifications to the employer’s information, the training objectives, or the student’s role. It is crucial to keep the training plan current to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and maintain eligibility for the STEM OPT extension.
Filling out the ICE I-983 form can be a daunting task, and many people stumble along the way. One common mistake is not providing enough detail in the training plan. The form requires a comprehensive description of the proposed training, including the goals and objectives. When applicants are vague or leave sections incomplete, it can lead to delays or even denials.
Another frequent error involves the signatures. Both the student and the designated school official must sign the form. Failing to obtain the necessary signatures or submitting a version of the form without them can result in the application being rejected. It's crucial to double-check that all required signatures are present before submission.
Many individuals also overlook the importance of aligning their training with their field of study. The I-983 form asks for a clear connection between the training opportunity and the student’s academic background. When applicants fail to make this connection, it raises red flags for the reviewing authorities, which could jeopardize their application.
Additionally, applicants sometimes underestimate the significance of the evaluation sections. The I-983 requires periodic evaluations of the training experience. Not providing a plan for these evaluations or neglecting to complete them can lead to compliance issues. This oversight can have serious consequences for the student’s immigration status.
Finally, some individuals neglect to keep a copy of the completed I-983 form. It’s essential to retain a copy for personal records. This document serves as a reference for future evaluations and can be invaluable if questions arise later. Keeping a thorough record can prevent unnecessary complications down the road.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for international students applying for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. In addition to the I-983 form, there are several other forms and documents that are often required or recommended during the application process. Below is a list of these documents, each described briefly.
These documents collectively support the application for the STEM OPT extension and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. It is essential for students to gather and submit all necessary paperwork to facilitate a smooth application process.
The ICE I-983 form, which is essential for students seeking practical training under the STEM OPT extension, shares similarities with several other important documents in the realm of education and employment. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose but often overlaps in terms of the information they require and the processes they facilitate. Here are ten documents that are similar to the ICE I-983 form:
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it's essential to approach the process with care. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this important document.
By following these dos and don'ts, you can enhance the chances of a smooth application process. Take your time, be thorough, and ensure that your form reflects your true situation.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is an important document for students on STEM Optional Practical Training. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form that can lead to confusion. Here are seven common misconceptions, along with clarifications.
This is not true. The I-983 form is applicable to all students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, regardless of their specific discipline.
In reality, the I-983 form is a mandatory requirement for students applying for STEM OPT extension. Without it, the application cannot be processed.
While having a structured training program can be beneficial, it is not a strict requirement. The form allows for a customized training plan that meets the student’s educational goals.
Actually, the I-983 must be updated and resubmitted if there are any significant changes in the training plan or the employment situation.
This is incorrect. Both the student and the employer must sign the form, indicating mutual agreement on the training plan.
While the I-983 is necessary, it does not guarantee approval. The application will still be reviewed based on other criteria set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
This is misleading. The I-983 is also important for ongoing compliance and should be referenced throughout the STEM OPT period to ensure adherence to the training plan.
Understanding these misconceptions can help students navigate the STEM OPT process more effectively and ensure they meet all necessary requirements.
The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for international students participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Here are some key takeaways regarding its completion and use:
Understanding these key aspects of the ICE I-983 form can significantly enhance the experience of international students in the STEM field.