The ICE I-983 form, also 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 the United States. This form outlines the training and learning objectives that students will pursue during their employment, ensuring that their work aligns with their academic background. Understanding how to accurately complete this form is essential for a successful application process, so take the first step by filling out the form by clicking the button below.
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 Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This form outlines the training and work experience that a student will receive while on STEM OPT, ensuring it is related to their degree and beneficial to their professional development.
Students who are currently in the United States on F-1 visas and have completed a degree in a STEM field may need to submit the I-983 form when applying for a 24-month extension of their OPT. This applies to those whose initial OPT is based on a degree in a qualifying STEM discipline.
The I-983 form requires detailed information about the student, the employer, and the training opportunity. Key sections include:
The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO will review the form and, if approved, update the student's SEVIS record. After this, the student can proceed with their application for the STEM OPT extension.
If the I-983 form is not approved by the DSO, the student may not be able to apply for the STEM OPT extension. It is essential to address any concerns or required changes indicated by the DSO before resubmitting the form. Students should ensure that their training plan meets all the necessary criteria outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Yes, the I-983 form can be amended if there are significant changes to the training plan, such as changes in the employer, job duties, or training objectives. Any amendments must be reported to the DSO, who will update the SEVIS record accordingly. Students should keep their training plans current to remain compliant with OPT regulations.
The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for international students participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to facilitate the training experience. Below is a list of these important documents.
Understanding these forms and documents is crucial for international students looking to navigate the OPT process successfully. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that both students and employers meet the necessary requirements for a fruitful training experience.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS
OMB APPROVAL NO. 1653-0054 EXPIRATION DATE: 7/31/2021
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 reduction 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 (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Student:
Date (mm-dd-yyyy):
ICE Form I-983 (7/16)
Page 1 of 5
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 (Sign in ink):
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name of Employing Organization:
Page 2 of 5
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
Page 5 of 5
Filling out the ICE I-983 form can be a daunting task for many. It is essential to get it right, as mistakes can lead to delays or even denial of your application. One common error is not providing sufficient detail in the training plan section. This section should clearly outline the goals and objectives of the training, as well as how they relate to the student’s field of study. Without this clarity, the reviewing officer may struggle to understand the purpose of the training.
Another frequent mistake is failing to include the required signatures. The I-983 form requires signatures from both the student and the designated school official. Omitting one of these signatures can result in the form being rejected. It’s crucial to double-check that all necessary parties have signed before submission.
Inaccurate information is also a common pitfall. Some applicants mistakenly enter incorrect dates or provide outdated information about their educational background. This can raise red flags during the review process. Always ensure that the information is current and accurate to avoid complications.
Many individuals neglect to explain how the training will benefit their career. The form asks for a detailed explanation of how the practical training relates to the student’s field of study. Failing to articulate this connection can weaken the application. A well-thought-out explanation can make a significant difference in the approval process.
Another mistake is overlooking the importance of timelines. The I-983 form requires a clear timeline for the training program. Some applicants provide vague or incomplete timelines, which can lead to confusion. A detailed timeline helps reviewers understand the structure of the training and its duration.
Some applicants forget to update their I-983 form if there are changes in their training plan. If there are any modifications to the training details, such as a change in employer or job responsibilities, it is essential to update the form accordingly. Failing to do so can result in compliance issues.
Additionally, individuals sometimes underestimate the significance of the employer's role in the training plan. The employer must provide detailed information about their organization and how they will facilitate the training. Insufficient information about the employer can lead to questions about the legitimacy of the training opportunity.
Another mistake is neglecting to review the entire form before submission. It’s easy to overlook minor errors or typos, but these can have serious consequences. A thorough review can catch mistakes that might otherwise lead to delays or rejections.
Lastly, some applicants fail to provide supporting documentation. The I-983 form may require additional documents to substantiate the training plan. Not including these can weaken the application. Always check the requirements and ensure that all necessary documents are attached.
Form I-20: This document is issued to international students and is required for obtaining an F-1 visa. Like the I-983, it outlines the student's program of study and ensures compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
Form DS-2019: This is used for J-1 visa holders. Similar to the I-983, it provides details about the exchange visitor's program and helps maintain legal status in the U.S.
Form I-765: This application for employment authorization is relevant for students seeking work. The I-983 is often used in conjunction with this form to demonstrate practical training eligibility.
Form I-140: This immigrant petition for foreign workers is similar in that it requires detailed information about the job and the qualifications of the worker, similar to the employer's role in the I-983.
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Form I-129: This petition for a nonimmigrant worker outlines the job details and employer information. It shares the goal of ensuring compliance with immigration laws, much like the I-983.
Form ETA-9035: The Labor Condition Application is required for certain employment-based visas. It details job conditions and wages, paralleling the employer responsibilities outlined in the I-983.
Form I-9: This employment eligibility verification form is necessary for all employees in the U.S. It ensures that workers are authorized to work, similar to the employment verification aspect of the I-983.
Form N-400: This application for naturalization requires information about the applicant's employment history. Like the I-983, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining lawful status in the U.S.
Form I-131: This application for a travel document allows certain individuals to leave and re-enter the U.S. It also requires documentation of status, similar to the compliance focus of the I-983.
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