The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, plays a pivotal role for international students in the United States with a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) who are seeking practical training opportunities. This document serves as a contract between the student, their employer, and their educational institution, outlining the goals and objectives of the STEM OPT extension. Its meticulous completion is crucial for maintaining one’s status under the STEM OPT program.
Navigating the complexities of immigration documentation can be a daunting process for employers and international students alike, especially when it comes to participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) Extension for STEM students. At the center of this process is the ICE I-983 form, a critical document that serves multiple crucial functions. It outlines a structured training plan that the employer and the student agree upon, ensuring the opportunity aligns with the student's academic studies in STEM fields. Furthermore, this form is a testament to the employer's commitment to adhering to the program's requirements, including mentorship and performance evaluation of the student. The ICE I-983 form not only facilitates a smooth path for students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical environments but also plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of the OPT program by monitoring compliance with U.S. immigration laws. By understanding the significant aspects and responsibilities associated with this form, both employers and students can navigate this essential step in the OPT extension process with greater confidence and clarity.
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 is a critical step for students in the STEM OPT program, ensuring that both the student and employer adhere to the requirements of the program. This process involves providing detailed information about the training plan, including objectives, means of achieving these objectives, and how the progress will be measured. It is crucial for maintaining status in the program and requires careful attention to detail. The following steps offer guidance on how to complete this form accurately.
Once the form is submitted, it will be reviewed by both your educational institution and potentially by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of your STEM OPT extension application. Approval of your training plan is essential for maintaining your status and ensuring that your work in the United States is in accordance with your field of study and the STEM OPT program requirements. Throughout this process, maintaining clear, open communication with your DSO and employer is crucial. They will be your primary sources of support and guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of the program and remain compliant with its conditions.
What is the purpose of the ICE I-983 form?
The ICE I-983 form, officially referred to as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is designed for graduates holding degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) who are applying for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT). It is a critical document that outlines how the STEM OPT training opportunity provides a bona fide educational experience related to the student's degree program.
Who needs to complete the ICE I-983 form?
Both the STEM OPT student and their employer must fill out the I-983 form. The student initiates the process by completing the student section and then passes it on to their employer, who fills in the employer-specific sections. This collaboration ensures that the training program is designed to enhance the student's educational experience in the STEM field.
What information is required in the form?
The I-983 form requires detailed information including the student's personal details, the employer's name and address, and specifics about the training program. This includes a description of how the program is directly related to the student's STEM degree, the goals and objectives of the training, means of achieving these objectives, and methods of performance evaluation.
Where can I find the ICE I-983 form?
The ICE I-983 form is available for download from the official website of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Section of Homeland Security's Study in the States program. It is important to ensure you are accessing the most recent version of the form for compliance.
Is there a submission fee for the I-983 form?
No, there is no fee required to submit the ICE I-983 form. However, it forms part of the application process for the STEM OPT extension, and students should be aware of any associated fees with the OPT extension application itself or fees related to maintaining their student status.
How often must the ICE I-983 form be updated?
The I-983 must be updated and resubmitted under certain circumstances: when there is any material change to the training program, when the student changes employers, and at the 12-month evaluation point of the STEM OPT period. These updates ensure ongoing compliance and the relevance of the training program to the student’s STEM education.
What happens if there is a mistake on the ICE I-983 form?
If errors are discovered after submission, it is crucial for both the student and the employer to promptly correct the information. An updated I-983 form should be completed and submitted according to the instructions provided by the student’s Designated School Official (DSO). Early correction of errors can prevent issues that might affect the student’s legal status in the U.S.
Can the ICE I-983 form impact my immigration status?
Yes, the successful completion and submission of the ICE I-983 form are pivotal for maintaining legal status under the STEM OPT extension. Failure to comply with the requirements of the I-983, including timely updates and accurate reporting, can lead to the termination of the student’s OPT status and potentially affect future immigration benefits.
Where should the completed ICE I-983 form be submitted?
The completed I-983 form should be submitted to the student’s Designated School Official (DSO), not directly to ICE or United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The DSO plays a crucial role in advising students on compliance matters and submitting necessary documentation for the STEM OPT extension on the student's behalf.
Filling out the ICE Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a critical process that requires careful attention to detail. Unfortunately, many individuals make errors that can delay or jeopardize their application. One common mistake is failing to provide a detailed training plan. Applicants often overlook the importance of outlining specific goals and objectives for the STEM OPT period, which is essential for demonstrating how the training will contribute to their development in their field of study.
Another error involves inaccuracies in the employer identification information. It is crucial for applicants to ensure that all employer details are accurate and match those on record with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Any discrepancy, no matter how minor it may seem, can lead to significant delays in the processing of the application.
A third mistake is neglecting to update the form when changes occur. The STEM OPT extension is a dynamic period, and any changes to the employment situation, such as a change in supervisor or job duties, require an updated I-983 form to be submitted promptly. Failure to do so can result in non-compliance with the terms of the OPT program.
Furthermore, individuals often submit the form without the required signatures. Both the student and the employer must sign the I-983 form to affirm that the information provided is accurate and that they agree to adhere to the training plan. An unsigned form is considered incomplete and will be rejected.
Another oversight is providing an unrealistic start date for the training program. Applicants must ensure that the start date is feasible, considering the processing times for both the form submission and any necessary preceding steps, such as the Designated School Official’s (DSO) recommendation in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Applicants also frequently misinterpret the role and responsibilities section, offering vague or irrelevant descriptions of the position. The form requires specific information about how the role contributes to the student's learning objectives and growth in their STEM field. A lack of clarity in this section can undermine the validity of the training plan.
Last but not least, failing to thoroughly review the entire form for minor errors, such as typographical mistakes, can also pose a problem. Every detail on the form contributes to the assessment of the applicant's eligibility and the quality of the training experience. Therefore, a final, meticulous review before submission is indispensable.
The ICE I-983 form is crucial for students on STEM OPT in the United States, requiring careful completion and submission. Alongside this form, numerous other documents play a vital role in ensuring compliance and facilitating the STEM OPT process. Below is a list of documents that are commonly used in conjunction with the ICE I-983 form. Each document serves a specific purpose, ensuring the student's eligibility, legal stay, and work authorization in the U.S. under the STEM OPT extension.
Together with the ICE I-983 form, these documents form a comprehensive dossier that supports a student's eligibility and compliance for the STEM OPT extension. It's essential for students to thoroughly understand the purpose and requirement of each document, ensuring a smooth and successful application process. Keeping these documents updated, accessible, and in order will contribute significantly to navigating the complexities of the U.S. immigration system while pursuing academic and professional goals.
The I-983 form, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a document specifically designed for students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields who are applying for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. A document that shares traits with the I-983 is the DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. This form is required for people seeking to enter the United States on a temporary basis. Like the I-983, the DS-160 collects detailed information on the applicant's background, intentions, and specific plans within the U.S., albeit for a different purpose and audience.
Another related document is the I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, used by employers to petition U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of a nonimmigrant worker to work in the U.S. temporarily. Similarities between the I-129 and I-983 are evident in their roles in facilitating the legal stay of non-citizens in the U.S. for work and training purposes, respectively, as well as in their requirement for detailed information about the training or employment and the qualifications of the applicant.
The I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification form, also has parallels with the I-983. The I-9 form is required by the U.S. government for all employees in the U.S. to verify their identity and authorization to work in the country. Both the I-9 and I-983 engage in processes meant to authorize activities (employment and training, respectively) within the United States and require the collection of personal and eligibility information.
The I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a form that closely resembles the I-983 in its educational context. Presented to international students, the I-20 is a vital part of maintaining student status and attending school in the U.S. Both the I-20 and I-983 are crucial for students in particular visa categories, ensuring their activities are in compliance with U.S. immigration laws and policies regarding study and practical training opportunities.
The G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, shares a procedural similarity with the I-983. The G-1145 form is used by applicants who wish to receive an electronic notification when their application or petition has been accepted by USCIS. Both forms are part of the broader immigration process, facilitating communication and processing within the complex system of U.S. immigration services by offering specific functionalities that aid in the transition or approval phases of the applicant's journey.
Lastly, the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, shares a key objective with the I-983: permitting international citizens the legal right to work in the U.S. The I-765 form is applicable to a broader range of applicants seeking work authorization under different circumstances, whereas the I-983 is specific to STEM OPT students. Nevertheless, both documents are essential for their respective applicants to gain or extend their ability to work in the United States, contributing to their professional and personal development within the country.
The ICE I-983 form is crucial for international students in the United States who are applying for STEM OPT extensions. This document requires precise details about the training plan. Here's a guide on how to approach it correctly to ensure your application process is smooth and successful.
Do's:
Ensure accuracy in every section. Double-check your personal information, the employer's details, and the training plan specifics.
Discuss the training plan with your employer before filling out the form. It’s essential that both you and your employer agree on the objectives and goals outlined.
Use clear and concise language when describing the goals of your STEM OPT training. Avoid industry jargon that might not be universally understood.
Clarify how the training directly relates to your STEM degree. The USCIS uses this information to evaluate the relevance of your training to your field of study.
Review the form for completeness. Missing information can lead to unnecessary delays or even the rejection of your application.
Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This will be helpful for future reference or if any issues arise with your application.
Consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) before and after completing the form. Their approval is necessary for your application to proceed.
Don'ts:
Do not leave sections blank. If a question does not apply to you, indicate this with "N/A" (not applicable) rather than leaving the space empty.
Avoid vague descriptions of your training plan. Specificity is key in demonstrating the value and relevance of your training.
Don't guess information. If you're unsure about what to include, ask your employer or DSO rather than risking inaccuracies.
Do not use technical terms or acronyms without explaining them. While these might be clear to you and your employer, they need to be understandable to the USCIS officer reviewing your application.
Do not overlook the requirement for regular performance evaluations. The form must detail when and how these will be conducted.
Resist the temptation to rush through the form. Thoroughness and accuracy are more important than speed.
Avoid submitting the form without your employer's signature. An unsigned form will not be processed.
The I-983 form, a crucial document for students in the United States on STEM OPT extensions, is often surrounded by misconceptions. Clearing up these misunderstandings can help both students and employers navigate the process more effectively. Here are six common misconceptions:
Only the student needs to fill out the form: This is not true. Both the student and their employer must complete different sections of the I-983 form. The form is designed to ensure that the student's practical training experience is directly related to their area of study and meets certain educational objectives.
It's the same as the I-9 form: Although both forms are related to employment, they serve different purposes. The I-9 form is used for verifying the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. In contrast, the I-983 form is specifically for students on a STEM OPT extension, detailing their training plan.
The form must be submitted to USCIS: This is a common misunderstanding. In fact, the I-983 form should be submitted to the student's university or college, not directly to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The student’s Designated School Official (DSO) reviews the form and retains it as part of the student's record.
There's no need to update the form unless the student changes employers: Actually, the I-983 form must be updated and resubmitted in certain situations besides changing employers, such as when there is any material change to the original training plan or if the student's employment is terminated early.
Any type of job qualifies for STEM OPT: Not every job qualifies for the STEM OPT extension. The job must be directly related to the student’s major area of study and must meet all the training criteria outlined in the I-983 form. Additionally, the employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
The form is only important at the start of the STEM OPT: This couldn't be further from the truth. The I-983 form is not only crucial at the beginning of the STEM OPT extension but throughout the entire period. Students and employers must conduct regular evaluations, which are part of the form, to prove that the training objectives are being met. These evaluations are required at the 12- and 24-month marks of the STEM OPT period.
The ICE I-983 form is a critical document for students on STEM OPT extensions, employers, and educational institutions alike. This form serves as a plan that outlines how students on a 24-month STEM OPT extension will achieve their learning objectives through practical training experiences. Understanding the key aspects of properly filling out and using this form is essential for compliance and the maximization of benefits for all parties involved. Here are five key takeaways to consider:
Properly completing and adhering to the requirements of the ICE I-983 form is crucial for ensuring the success of the STEM OPT extension. It not only safeguards the legal status of the student but also upholds the integrity of the program for employers and educational institutions. By following these key takeaways, all parties can benefit from a structured and compliant training experience.
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