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Fill in Your ICE I-983 Template

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a crucial document for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States. This form outlines the training and learning objectives of the student’s employment, ensuring that the experience is directly related to their field of study. Completing the I-983 accurately is essential for compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

Table of Contents

The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the practical training of international students in the United States. Designed for those participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, this form outlines the training plan that students must develop in collaboration with their employers. It serves as a roadmap for both the student and the employer, detailing how the training experience aligns with the student’s field of study. Key components of the form include the goals of the training, the specific tasks the student will undertake, and the methods of supervision and evaluation. Additionally, the I-983 emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the training is directly related to the student's degree, thereby enhancing their professional development. Completing the I-983 is not merely a bureaucratic step; it is an opportunity for students to articulate their learning objectives and for employers to demonstrate their commitment to fostering a supportive training environment. Understanding the significance of this form can empower students to maximize their practical training experience while adhering to the regulations set forth by U.S. immigration authorities.

Sample - 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: 5/31/2025

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:

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 reductio n 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:

Printed Name of Student:		Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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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:
	A. Salary Amount and Frequency:

	B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):	B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
	1.
	2.
	3.
	3.
	4.
	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:
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)

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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)

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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.

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

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)

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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:
Printed Name of Student:						Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:						Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS

Range of Evaluation Dates: From (mm-dd-yyyy):

To (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Student:

Printed Name of Student:

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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↓ ICE I-983 PDF

File Specs

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The ICE I-983 form is designed for students on F-1 visas who are applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to ensure they are receiving proper training and that their employment aligns with their field of study.
Eligibility	To use the I-983 form, students must be enrolled in a degree program and have a job offer related to their major. It is essential to maintain F-1 status while applying.
Submission	The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO will review and approve the form before it is sent to ICE.
Duration	The I-983 form must be updated and resubmitted if there are any significant changes to the student's employment or training situation during the OPT period.
Compliance	Students must comply with all reporting requirements outlined in the I-983 form. This includes submitting periodic evaluations and updates to their DSO.
Governing Laws	The I-983 form is governed by the regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, specifically under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 8, Section 214.2(f).

ICE I-983 - Usage Guidelines

Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your application process. Make sure you have all necessary information ready before you begin. This will help ensure that your application is complete and accurate, which can save you time and potential delays.

Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary details about your employer, your role, and your academic program.
Section 1 - Student Information: Fill in your full name, SEVIS ID, and other personal details as requested.
Section 2 - Student’s Degree Program: Indicate your degree level, major, and the name of your school.
Section 3 - Employer Information: Provide the name, address, and contact details of your employer.
Section 4 - Training Plan: Describe the training objectives and how they relate to your academic program.
Section 5 - Employer Certification: Ensure that your employer signs the form, confirming their commitment to the training plan.
Review: Carefully check all entries for accuracy and completeness before submission.
Submit: Send the completed form to the appropriate office as directed in the instructions.

Your Questions, Answered

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 that outlines the training plan for students on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training (OPT). It is required for students who are seeking a 24-month extension of their OPT period, allowing them to gain practical experience in their field of study.

Who needs to complete the I-983 form?

Students on STEM OPT must complete the I-983 form. This includes those who have already completed their initial 12-month OPT and are seeking an extension. The form must be filled out in collaboration with their employer, who plays a key role in the training plan.

What information is required on the I-983 form?

The I-983 form requires several pieces of information, including the student's personal details, the employer's information, and a detailed description of the training plan. This includes the goals of the training, how it relates to the student's degree, and how the employer will provide supervision and evaluation.

How do I submit the I-983 form?

The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's educational institution. The DSO will review the form, ensure it meets all requirements, and then provide the student with a new Form I-20 that reflects the STEM OPT extension.

What happens if my I-983 form is not approved?

If the I-983 form is not approved, the student may not be eligible for the STEM OPT extension. It is important to address any issues or concerns raised by the DSO and to make necessary revisions to the form before resubmission.

Can I make changes to the I-983 form after it has been submitted?

Yes, students can make changes to the I-983 form after submission. If there are significant changes to the training plan, the student must update the form and resubmit it to the DSO for approval. It is crucial to keep the training plan current to maintain compliance with OPT regulations.

How often should I update my I-983 form?

Students should update their I-983 form whenever there are changes in their employment, training plan, or if they change employers. Additionally, it is advisable to review the form regularly to ensure it accurately reflects the current training situation.

What are the consequences of not submitting the I-983 form?

Failing to submit the I-983 form can result in the loss of eligibility for the STEM OPT extension. It may also lead to issues with maintaining lawful status in the U.S. Students should ensure that they complete and submit the form in a timely manner to avoid any negative consequences.

Where can I find more information about the I-983 form?

More information about the I-983 form can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Additionally, students can consult their Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance and assistance with completing the form.

Common mistakes

Not providing complete information. It's essential to fill out every section thoroughly. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or denials.
Failing to include accurate job descriptions. Make sure the job responsibilities align with the training plan. Vague descriptions can raise questions about the training relevance.
Neglecting to outline specific goals. Clearly defined goals help demonstrate the purpose of the training. Without them, the form may seem less credible.
Not updating the form when changes occur. If there are any adjustments in the training plan or job duties, it's crucial to revise the I-983 accordingly.
Overlooking the signatures. Both the student and the employer must sign the form. Missing signatures can result in processing delays.
Ignoring the instructions. Each section has specific guidelines. Carefully reading the instructions can help avoid common pitfalls.
Submitting the form without a review. A second set of eyes can catch errors or omissions. Taking the time to review can prevent unnecessary complications.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) under the STEM category. Alongside this form, several other documents and forms may be required to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations and to facilitate the application process. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the I-983.

Form I-20: This is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. It is issued by the student's Designated School Official (DSO) and confirms the student's enrollment in a SEVP-approved school.
Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Students must submit this form to apply for the work authorization necessary to participate in the STEM OPT program.
Form I-94: This document serves as the Arrival/Departure Record. It is issued to non-U.S. citizens upon entry into the United States and provides proof of legal entry and status.
Employment Offer Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job offer, including the position, start date, and responsibilities. This letter supports the application by demonstrating the relevance of the job to the student's field of study.
Employer's EIN: The Employer Identification Number is a unique number assigned to a business by the IRS. It is often required to verify the legitimacy of the employer during the application process.
Job Description: A detailed description of the job duties and responsibilities. This document helps to establish how the position relates to the student's degree and training objectives.
Training Plan Evaluation: This document outlines how the training will be evaluated and what metrics will be used to assess the student's progress and success in the program.
Proof of Insurance: Documentation showing that the student has appropriate health insurance coverage during their STEM OPT period, as required by immigration regulations.
Personal Statement: A narrative written by the student explaining their goals, the relevance of the training to their academic background, and how it will benefit their career.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the application process for STEM OPT and ensures that students meet the necessary requirements for maintaining their nonimmigrant status while gaining practical experience in their field. Proper preparation and submission of these forms can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful application.

Similar forms

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is similar to the Form I-20, which is issued by schools to international students. The Form I-20 outlines the student's program of study, the duration of their stay, and the financial support available. Like the I-983, the Form I-20 is crucial for maintaining legal status in the U.S. It ensures that students are enrolled in an approved program and provides necessary information for applying for work authorization, including Optional Practical Training (OPT). Both documents serve to validate the student’s educational pursuits and work-related activities in the U.S.

Another document similar to the ICE I-983 is the Form I-765, which is the Application for Employment Authorization. This form is used by eligible individuals to request permission to work in the U.S. Like the I-983, the I-765 must be completed accurately and submitted as part of the application process for work authorization. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan and goals for STEM OPT students, the I-765 is more about the legal permission to work, making both forms essential for international students seeking employment in their field of study.

The Form DS-2019 is also comparable to the ICE I-983. Issued for J-1 visa holders, the DS-2019 outlines the exchange visitor's program details, including the purpose of the visit and the duration of stay. Both forms are vital for maintaining legal status while in the U.S. and require information about the student’s program and training. The DS-2019, like the I-983, emphasizes the importance of the educational experience and ensures that participants are engaging in activities that align with their visa requirements.

The Form I-94 is another document that shares similarities with the ICE I-983. The I-94 is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to track the arrival and departure of foreign visitors. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan for STEM OPT students, the I-94 is crucial for confirming legal entry into the U.S. and maintaining status. Both documents play significant roles in ensuring that international students comply with U.S. immigration laws and regulations during their stay.

The Employment Agreement is also akin to the ICE I-983. This document outlines the terms of employment between the student and the employer, detailing job responsibilities, duration, and compensation. While the I-983 emphasizes the educational and training aspects of the employment, the Employment Agreement formalizes the relationship and expectations between the student and the employer. Both documents work together to ensure that the employment aligns with the student’s educational goals and complies with immigration requirements.

Lastly, the Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, can be viewed as similar to the ICE I-983. This form is used by attorneys or representatives to communicate with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of a client. While the I-983 is focused on the student’s training plan, the G-28 ensures that legal representation is in place to navigate the complexities of immigration processes. Both documents are important for protecting the rights and interests of international students as they pursue their educational and career objectives in the U.S.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure your application is accurate and complete. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
Do provide accurate and truthful information.
Do ensure that all signatures are present where required.
Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
Do double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors.

Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
Don't use abbreviations that may confuse the reader.
Don't submit the form without reviewing it thoroughly.
Don't ignore deadlines; submit your form on time.
Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're unsure about any part of the form.

Completing the ICE I-983 form correctly is vital. Taking the time to follow these guidelines can make a significant difference in the processing of your application.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form is an important document for international students participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, there are several misconceptions surrounding it. Here’s a breakdown of seven common misunderstandings:

It's only for students in engineering fields. Many believe that the I-983 form applies solely to engineering students. In reality, it is for all STEM fields, including mathematics, natural sciences, and technology.
Filling out the form is optional. Some think that completing the I-983 is not mandatory. However, it is a required document for students who wish to apply for STEM OPT extension.
The employer must be a large corporation. There’s a misconception that only large companies can sponsor STEM OPT students. In truth, any employer that meets the necessary criteria can participate, regardless of size.
Once submitted, the I-983 cannot be changed. Many believe that after submitting the I-983, it’s set in stone. However, students can update their I-983 if there are significant changes to their training plan.
The form is only reviewed by the employer. Some think that only the employer looks at the I-983. In fact, the form is also reviewed by the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student’s school.
It’s a complicated process. Many feel overwhelmed by the form and assume it’s too complex. While it requires attention to detail, it can be manageable with the right guidance and resources.
Submitting the I-983 guarantees OPT approval. There’s a belief that completing the I-983 ensures the approval of the STEM OPT application. However, approval is contingent on meeting all eligibility requirements and submitting a complete application.

Understanding these misconceptions can help students navigate the process more effectively and ensure they are well-prepared for their STEM OPT experience.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, it's important to keep several key points in mind. This form is essential for students on F-1 visas participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). Here are some takeaways to consider:

Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form outlines the training plan for STEM OPT students. It ensures that the training is related to the student's field of study and provides an opportunity for practical experience.
Collaboration is Key: Work closely with your employer to complete the form. Both parties must agree on the training goals and responsibilities, ensuring that the experience aligns with your educational background.
Detail is Crucial: Provide comprehensive information about the training program. Include specific goals, tasks, and how the experience will enhance your skills. This level of detail helps demonstrate the value of the training.
Regular Updates: Keep the I-983 form updated. If there are any changes in your training plan or employer, you must revise the form and notify your Designated School Official (DSO).

By focusing on these key aspects, you can navigate the I-983 form process more effectively and ensure a successful STEM OPT experience.