Official ICE I-983 Template in PDF Open ICE I-983 Editor

Official ICE I-983 Template in PDF

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 STEM fields. This form outlines the training plan, ensuring that the employment aligns with the student’s field of study and provides valuable experience. To get started on filling out the I-983 form, click the button below.

Open ICE I-983 Editor

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, several important points should be kept in mind. This form is essential for students participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) and helps ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form outlines the training plan for STEM OPT students. It serves as a guide for both students and employers.
  • Complete All Sections: Each section of the form must be filled out accurately. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or rejections.
  • Collaboration is Key: Students should work closely with their employers to ensure the training plan is realistic and beneficial for both parties.
  • Review the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for STEM OPT to ensure compliance with the program.
  • Update as Needed: If there are changes in the training plan, the I-983 form must be updated and submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO).
  • Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your DSO or other resources if you have questions about the form.
  • Keep Copies: Always retain copies of the completed form for your records. This can be helpful for future reference or if issues arise.
  • Timeliness Matters: Submit the I-983 form as soon as possible after securing a training opportunity to avoid any potential gaps in your employment authorization.

By keeping these key takeaways in mind, students can navigate the I-983 form process more effectively and ensure a smoother experience during their STEM OPT period.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is essential for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the United States. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that help ensure compliance with immigration regulations and facilitate the training experience. Below is a list of documents commonly used alongside the I-983 form.

  • Form I-765: This is the application for employment authorization. It allows students to request permission to work in the U.S. during their OPT period.
  • Form I-20: Issued by the student’s Designated School Official (DSO), this document certifies the student’s enrollment in a qualifying program and is necessary for maintaining F-1 status.
  • Form I-94: This form records the arrival and departure of non-U.S. citizens. It is crucial for verifying the student’s legal status in the U.S.
  • Employer's Letter of Support: A letter from the employer confirming the job offer and detailing the role and responsibilities. This helps to demonstrate the relevance of the position to the student’s field of study.
  • Job Offer Letter: This document outlines the terms of employment, including job title, duties, and salary. It serves as proof of employment for the OPT application.
  • Resume or CV: A current resume or curriculum vitae detailing the student’s educational background, work experience, and skills. This is often required to showcase qualifications for the position.
  • Performance Evaluation: A document that provides feedback on the student’s performance during the training period. This is important for assessing the effectiveness of the training plan.
  • Quitclaim Deed Form: When transferring property ownership, utilize the essential quitclaim deed form resources to ensure a legally sound transaction.
  • Training Plan Updates: If there are any changes to the training plan, updated versions must be submitted to reflect the current situation accurately.
  • Proof of Employment: This could include pay stubs or tax documents that verify the student is employed in the position described in the I-983.
  • Compliance Documentation: Any additional documents that demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the STEM OPT program, such as reports or correspondence with the employer.

Understanding these accompanying forms and documents is vital for students navigating the STEM OPT process. Each document plays a significant role in ensuring that students maintain their legal status while gaining valuable work experience in the United States. By preparing these documents thoroughly, students can foster a smoother application process and focus on their professional development.

Similar forms

  • Form I-20: Similar to the I-983, the Form I-20 is used for international students to apply for an F-1 visa. Both documents require detailed information about the student’s program and training, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
  • Form DS-2019: This document is for J-1 visa holders. Like the I-983, it outlines the purpose of the exchange program and the participant's responsibilities, emphasizing the need for proper documentation in the training process.
  • Form I-94: The I-94 is a record of arrival and departure for non-immigrants. It is similar to the I-983 in that it tracks the status and duration of stay, which is crucial for maintaining compliance with visa conditions.
  • Form ETA-9035: The Labor Condition Application is required for H-1B visa applications. It shares similarities with the I-983 in that both forms ensure the training or employment does not adversely affect the U.S. labor market.
  • Form I-765: This application for employment authorization is related to the I-983 as it allows students to work in the U.S. under specific conditions. Both forms require detailed information about the applicant’s training and employment situation.
  • Form I-140: The Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker is similar in that it outlines a foreign national's qualifications and job offer in the U.S. Both documents require a clear demonstration of the applicant's skills and the employer's commitment.
  • Form I-131: This application for a travel document is relevant for individuals seeking to leave the U.S. while maintaining their immigration status. It parallels the I-983 in its focus on compliance with immigration regulations.
  • Employee Handbook: This essential document outlines workplace policies and expectations, similar to how the I-983 provides clarity on training objectives, ensuring comprehensive understanding among all employees, especially when referring to All California Forms.
  • Form N-400: The Application for Naturalization is similar in that it requires detailed personal information and background checks. Both forms emphasize the importance of lawful presence and adherence to U.S. immigration laws.
  • Form I-485: The Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status is similar to the I-983 as it involves a change in immigration status. Both require comprehensive documentation to support the applicant's eligibility.

Document Data

Fact Name Description
Purpose The ICE I-983 form is used by international students on F-1 visas to apply for STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) and to outline their training plans with their employers.
Eligibility Only students who have completed a degree in a STEM field are eligible to use the I-983 form for OPT, ensuring that their training is directly related to their field of study.
Employer Requirements Employers must provide a structured training program and commit to mentoring the student, ensuring that the experience is educational and beneficial to both parties.
Submission Process The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution for approval before applying for the OPT.
Governing Laws The I-983 form is governed by the regulations set forth by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically under the STEM OPT extension rules.

More PDF Forms

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Applicants often leave sections blank or fail to provide all required details. Each part of the form must be filled out completely.

  2. Incorrect Signatures: Some individuals forget to sign the form or provide signatures that do not match their legal names. Ensure that the signature is clear and consistent.

  3. Failure to Update Information: If there are changes in the training plan or the student's situation, those updates must be reflected on the form promptly.

  4. Inaccurate Dates: Applicants may enter incorrect start or end dates for the training program. Double-check all dates for accuracy.

  5. Insufficient Details on Training Goals: Some people do not adequately explain the training goals or how they relate to their field of study. Clear and specific descriptions are essential.

  6. Neglecting to Include Employer Information: Missing details about the employer, such as the company name or address, can lead to delays in processing.

  7. Ignoring the Evaluation Process: The evaluation section is critical. Applicants sometimes overlook this part or provide vague information about how the student's progress will be assessed.

  8. Not Consulting with the Designated School Official (DSO): Some individuals fail to seek guidance from their DSO before submitting the form, which can lead to mistakes.

  9. Submitting Without a Review: Rushing to submit the form without a thorough review can result in overlooked errors. Always proofread the entire document.

  10. Ignoring Submission Guidelines: Each submission has specific requirements regarding format and delivery. Not following these guidelines can cause delays or rejections.

Preview - ICE I-983 Form

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 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 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:

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

 

Printed Name of Employing Organization:

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

Page 2 of 5

SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)

Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name):

Employer Name:

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.

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

Page 3 of 5

Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.

SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL 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.

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.

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):

Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

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.

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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):

 

 

Signature of Student (Sign in ink):

Printed Name of Student:

 

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):

Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

 

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

FINAL 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):

 

 

Signature of Student (Sign in ink):

Printed Name of Student:

 

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):

Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

 

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

Page 5 of 5