The ICE I-983 form is a critical document that serves as a training plan for those enrolled in the STEM OPT extension, which allows international students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to stay in the United States for additional training following their graduation. This form is an agreement between the student, employer, and the university, ensuring that the practical training experience is relevant and beneficial to the student's academic journey in STEM fields. For detailed guidance on how to properly fill out this form and to take the next step in your career development, click the button below.
Navigating the terrain of employment-based training opportunities in the United States presents unique challenges and requirements, especially for those on a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. Central to this process is the ICE I-983 form, a document that plays a pivotal role in the extension of OPT for international students holding F-1 visas pursuing STEM degrees. This form serves as a detailed training plan between the STEM OPT student and their employer, ensuring that the work experience gained is directly related to the student’s area of study and contributes significantly to their educational objectives. It outlines the mentoring and training opportunities the employer will provide, along with mechanisms for evaluating the student’s progress. Accuracy and thoroughness in completing this form are paramount, as it requires detailed information about the training program, including goals, means of achieving them, and means of measuring success. The I-983 form thus not only facilitates compliance with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regulations but also enhances the educational and professional experiences of international STEM students in the United States.
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
Once the decision to pursue an extension of the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) is made, the next critical step involves accurately filling out the ICE Form I-983. This form is pivotal in defining the training plan between the student and their employer, ensuring the experience is educational and directly related to the student's field of study. Approaching this document with attention to detail is essential, as any errors or omissions can lead to delays or rejection of the STEM OPT extension application. Below is a straightforward guide to help navigate through each section, making the process less daunting and more manageable.
After completing the form, review it thoroughly with your employer to ensure all information is accurate and consistent. Submit the completed form to your designated school official (DSO), who will review it and, if acceptable, endorse your STEM OPT request in SEVIS. They will then provide you with a new Form I-20, reflecting the recommendation for STEM OPT. This document is necessary for your STEM OPT application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Remember, attention to detail and strict adherence to the guidelines will facilitate a smooth process.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a document that must be completed by students and their employers when applying for a 24-month extension of OPT (Optional Practical Training) for those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields. This form outlines the training plan that provides the student with an opportunity to enhance their educational experiences with practical, on-the-job training.
Both the STEM OPT student and the employer have to fill out the ICE I-983 form. It's a collaborative effort to ensure the training program meets the educational objectives for the student’s degree. The form must be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO) before the STEM OPT extension can be recommended in the student's SEVIS record.
The I-983 Training Plan requires detailed information, including but not limited to:
The I-983 form must be reviewed and updated:
If there is a modification to the training plan, such as changes in employment or training objectives, a new I-983 form reflecting these changes must be completed and submitted to the DSO as soon as possible. This is crucial for maintaining the STEM OPT status and ensuring the training remains compliant with the program's requirements.
Yes, if a student is working for more than one employer during their STEM OPT period, each employer must complete and sign a separate I-983 form. Each training experience must independently meet the requirements for STEM OPT and be directly related to the student’s degree program.
The DSO has a critical role in the I-983 form process. They review the submitted form to ensure that it complies with the STEM OPT extension requirements and that the proposed training is directly related to the student’s major area of study. Once the DSO is satisfied that the form meets all requirements, they endorse the student's request for the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS. The DSO also oversees compliance and reporting requirements during the STEM OPT period.
Incorrect or incomplete I-983 forms can lead to delays in the processing of the STEM OPT extension or even denial of the extension request. Additionally, failure to comply with the I-983 regulations, such as not reporting changes or failing to submit evaluations, can result in the termination of the student’s legal status in the United States.
The I-983 form is available for download from the official website of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) section. It is important to ensure you are using the most current version of the form.
Yes, the employer must adhere to specific training requirements to be eligible to participate in the STEM OPT program. These include:
Employers play a critical role in ensuring the STEM OPT experience is both educational and beneficial to the student’s career progression.
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, which is a critical document for students on STEM OPT extensions, mistakes can significantly delay the application process or lead to its denial. Listed below are common errors that need to be avoided to ensure the process proceeds smoothly:
Not thoroughly reviewing the form before submission. Many individuals hastily fill out the form and submit it without double-checking the information they've provided. This can lead to minor errors, like typos in names or addresses, or more significant mistakes, such as incorrect dates that can affect the validity of the STEM OPT extension.
Providing incomplete details in Section 3: Employer Information. It's essential to fill out every applicable part of this section. Often, applicants leave out necessary information, like the Employer Identification Number (EIN) or fail to provide a detailed explanation of the training plan. This oversight can cause delays as additional documentation may be requested by the reviewing authority.
Failure to properly outline the training plan. The training plan is a critical component of the I-983 form. Some applicants do not describe how the training is directly related to their STEM degree, or they might submit a generic training plan that does not specify goals, objectives, and a detailed description of the training program. Such omissions or generalized entries can lead to requests for revision or denial of the application.
Not obtaining the necessary signatures. Every required signature must be obtained before submission, including those of the student and the employer's designated official. Skipping or forgetting a signature might seem like a minor mistake, but it can render the application incomplete, leading to its immediate return or a request for resubmission, thereby delaying the process.
By addressing these common mistakes and ensuring the ICE I-983 form is filled out correctly and completely, applicants can avoid unnecessary delays or denials, facilitating a smoother path to securing their STEM OPT extension.
When navigating the process of obtaining or extending a student or work visa in the United States, the ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role, particularly for those involved in STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics students). However, this is just one piece of the puzzle. Many other documents and forms often accompany the I-983, each serving its unique purpose in ensuring compliance and smooth progression through visa procedures. Let's explore some of these documents to gain a clearer understanding of their roles and importance.
Each of these documents serves a specific role in the journey of international students and workers in the United States, complementing the ICE I-983 in the greater context of immigration and employment authorization. Keeping these documents in order, up-to-date, and readily available can streamline the often complex processes involved in studying or working in the U.S. Understanding the purpose and requirements of each can significantly demystify the path to compliance and success in the U.S. legal and educational systems.
I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification: This form is used by employers to verify an employee's identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Its similarity to the ICE I-983 lies in its foundational purpose of verifying eligibility, though in the context of employment generally, rather than specifically for students in STEM OPT extensions.
DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Required for those seeking a nonimmigrant visa for temporary travel to the United States. Similar to the I-983, it gathers detailed personal information and purpose for the U.S. entry, tailoring its focus to those intending to travel rather than engage in educational or vocational training.
I-129 Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker: Used by employers to petition for an alien to come to the United States temporarily to work. It aligns with the I-983 in its employment-centric nature, with the critical difference being its applicability to a broader range of work visas beyond the academic or training context.
I-539 Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status: This application is for nonimmigrants wishing to extend their stay or change their status in the U.S. It shares a connection with the I-983 through its focus on nonimmigrant visitors, specifically in altering or extending their originally intended period of stay or activity.
DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status: This document is crucial for those applying to enter the United States under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. Like the I-983, it is tailored towards individuals in the United States for educational and cultural exchange, though the DS-2019 encompasses a broader range of exchange activities.
I-765 Application for Employment Authorization: Applicants seeking permission to work legally in the U.S. use this form. It is similar to the I-983 as both forms deal with employment authorization, but the I-765 is applicable to a wider audience, including asylum seekers, students, and certain spouses of visa holders.
The ICE I-983 form is crucial for students on STEM OPT extensions, requiring detailed information about their training plan. Properly filling out this form is essential to ensure compliance with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement regulations. To guide you through the process, here are some dos and don'ts:
Following these guidelines closely will help ensure that the process goes smoothly and increases the likelihood of a successful submission. Remember, the I-983 form is a critical step in maintaining your status in the U.S. under the STEM OPT extension, so take the time to complete it carefully and accurately.
The ICE I-983 form, integral to the STEM OPT extension process for international students in the United States, is often surrounded by misconceptions. These misunderstandings can lead to confusion and even impact the ability of these students to extend their stay legally while continuing their education or participating in training programs. Below, eight common misconceptions about the I-983 form are clarified to provide a clearer understanding of its purpose and requirements.
The form is only for the student's record. Contrary to this belief, the ICE I-983 form is not just a document for the student to fill out and keep. It must be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO). The information provided is crucial for the DSO to recommend the STEM OPT extension in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Employers have no role in completing the I-983 form. This is incorrect. The I-983 form requires contributions from both the student and their employer. It is designed to outline the training plan, goals, and assessments that the employer must agree to and monitor throughout the OPT extension period.
Any employer can sign the I-983 form. In reality, not all employers are eligible to sign the I-983 form. The employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and have a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). Moreover, they must agree to the commitments outlined in the form regarding the training plan.
The form doesn't need updating unless the student changes employers. This belief is misleading. The I-983 must be updated and resubmitted if there are any material changes to the student's training plan, including but not limited to changes in the employer's address, the student’s compensation, or significant alterations to the employment relationship.
Filling out the I-983 form is sufficient to start the STEM OPT extension. Completing the I-983 is a crucial step, but it's not the only requirement. The student must also submit a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS and receive approval before they can begin their STEM OPT extension.
The I-983 form is only necessary at the beginning of the STEM OPT extension. Another common misunderstanding is that the form is a one-time requirement. In fact, students must complete a new I-983 form annually to evaluate the STEM OPT training progress and update their DSO.
The form is simple and quick to fill out. While it may not be overly complicated, the I-983 form requires careful attention to detail and clear articulation of the training plan. Both the student and the employer must ensure that the objectives, goals, and assessments are thoroughly detailed.
There's no deadline for submitting the I-983 form. Actually, timing is critical. The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the DSO before the student can apply for the STEM OPT extension with USCIS. Delays in submitting the form can jeopardize the student's eligibility for the extension.
Understanding these key aspects of the ICE I-983 form can help ensure that students and employers navigate the STEM OPT extension process more effectively, preventing potential setbacks due to common misconceptions.
The ICE I-983 form, pivotal for students under the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, plays a crucial role in defining the pathway for gaining valuable hands-on work experience in the United States. It is essential for both students and their employers to understand the intricacies involved in filling out and using the form correctly to ensure compliance with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requirements. Here are four key takeaways to consider:
Employee Write Up Form Template - A thorough documentation procedure ensuring the employee, HR department, and supervisory levels are on the same page regarding disciplinary actions.
How to Verify Someone's Military Service - It allows for a concise but comprehensive review of a service member's career progression.
Affidavit of Support Form I-134 - It's a temporary support arrangement, often used for visits, not for permanent residency or immigration purposes.