The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for international students pursuing optional practical training in STEM fields. This form outlines the training plan and ensures that the student’s work experience aligns with their academic program. Completing the I-983 accurately is essential for maintaining visa status and maximizing the benefits of the STEM OPT extension.
The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students in the United States. This form is designed to outline the training opportunities that a student will receive while on OPT. It requires detailed information about the employer, the student's role, and how the training aligns with the student's academic program. The form emphasizes the importance of a structured training plan, which must be signed by both the student and the employer. Additionally, it includes sections that address the goals of the training, the skills to be developed, and the methods of evaluation. Completing the I-983 is essential for maintaining compliance with immigration regulations and ensuring a successful practical training experience. Understanding the requirements and implications of this form can significantly impact a student's career development and future opportunities in the U.S.
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 by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for international students on an F-1 visa who are applying for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This form outlines the training plan that the student will follow during their employment in the U.S., ensuring that the training is related to their field of study and provides valuable experience.
Who needs to complete the I-983 form?
Both the student and their employer must complete the I-983 form. The student must provide personal information and details about their degree and the proposed training. The employer must outline how they will provide training and supervision, as well as the goals of the training program. This collaborative effort ensures that both parties understand their responsibilities and the objectives of the training.
What information is required on the I-983 form?
The I-983 form requires several key pieces of information. Students must include their personal details, educational background, and the name of their employer. Employers need to provide information about their organization, the training they will offer, and how it relates to the student's field of study. Additionally, the form requires the student to outline their learning objectives and how the training will help them achieve these goals.
How long does it take to complete the I-983 form?
The time it takes to complete the I-983 form varies depending on the complexity of the training plan and the cooperation between the student and employer. Generally, students should allow several hours to gather the necessary information and draft the plan. Once both parties review and finalize the document, they can submit it along with their STEM OPT application.
What happens if the I-983 form is not completed correctly?
If the I-983 form is not completed correctly, it could delay the processing of the STEM OPT application. In some cases, USCIS may request additional information or clarification, which can prolong the approval timeline. It's essential to ensure that all sections are filled out accurately and that both the student and employer sign the form before submission.
Where should the I-983 form be submitted?
The completed I-983 form should be submitted to the designated school official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO will review the form and, if everything is in order, will provide the student with a new Form I-20 that reflects the STEM OPT extension. After obtaining the new Form I-20, the student can then submit their application to USCIS.
Filling out the ICE I-983 form can be a crucial step for students in STEM fields seeking to participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT). Here are some key takeaways to consider:
The ICE I-983 form is an important document for students participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. However, several misconceptions about this form can lead to confusion. Here are five common misconceptions:
In reality, the I-983 form must be submitted for each new employer during the STEM OPT period. Even if you have previously submitted the form, a new one is necessary when changing employers.
This form is mandatory for students applying for STEM OPT. Failing to submit it can result in the denial of your application or loss of your work authorization.
While students fill out the form, employers also play a crucial role. They must review and sign the form, ensuring they understand their responsibilities in the training plan.
Students can update the I-983 form if there are changes in their training plan or employment situation. It’s important to keep the form current to reflect any adjustments.
The form covers various aspects, including the training objectives, employer’s commitment, and how the training relates to the student’s degree. It’s a comprehensive document aimed at ensuring a valuable 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
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Inaccurate Information: Many individuals provide incorrect or incomplete details about their personal information, such as name, address, or contact information. This can lead to delays or rejections.
Failure to Sign: Some forget to sign the form. A missing signature can render the application invalid.
Omitting Required Sections: Certain sections of the I-983 are mandatory. Leaving these blank can result in the form being returned or denied.
Inconsistent Dates: People often enter dates that do not align with the timeline of their educational or employment history. This inconsistency raises red flags.
Vague Descriptions: Providing unclear or overly broad descriptions of the training program can lead to confusion. Specificity is crucial.
Ignoring Instructions: The form comes with specific guidelines. Ignoring these instructions can lead to errors that complicate the process.
Incorrect Designated School Official (DSO) Information: Failing to provide accurate DSO contact information can hinder communication and processing.
Not Updating Information: If circumstances change after submitting the form, individuals often forget to update their information. This can cause issues later.
Submitting Without Review: Some rush to submit the form without a thorough review. Taking the time to check for errors can save significant time and effort.
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is important to approach the process with care. Here are some essential guidelines to follow:
The ICE I-983 form, which is used for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, shares similarities with the Form I-20. The Form I-20 is issued by educational institutions to international students, certifying their enrollment and eligibility for student status. Both documents serve as essential evidence for maintaining legal status in the United States. They require detailed information about the student's program and the institution, ensuring that the student is engaged in activities that align with their field of study. Like the I-983, the Form I-20 must be updated as the student's academic or practical training circumstances change.
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Another document comparable to the I-983 is the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form is utilized by individuals seeking permission to work in the U.S. Both the I-765 and the I-983 require applicants to provide specific information about their employment situation. The I-765 focuses on the individual's request for work authorization, while the I-983 emphasizes the training plan and goals related to the employment. Each form plays a crucial role in the process of securing legal employment for international students.
The Training Plan for STEM OPT, represented by the I-983, is also similar to the Form DS-2019, which is used for J-1 Exchange Visitors. The DS-2019 outlines the purpose of the exchange program and the participant's role within it. Both documents require a detailed description of the training or exchange experience, including objectives and supervision. They ensure that participants are engaging in activities that are beneficial to their educational and professional development while in the United States.
Furthermore, the ICE I-983 is akin to the Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. The I-94 documents an individual's arrival and departure from the U.S. and provides evidence of their legal status. Both forms are crucial for maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan and educational objectives, the I-94 serves as proof of the individual's legal entry and status, ensuring that they can participate in authorized activities during their stay.
Lastly, the I-983 bears resemblance to the Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. This form is used by individuals seeking legal representation in immigration matters. Both the I-983 and the G-28 require signatures and attestations, ensuring that the information provided is accurate and truthful. While the I-983 is specific to the training and employment plan for STEM OPT, the G-28 facilitates communication between the applicant and immigration authorities through legal representation.