Blank ICE I-983 Template

The ICE I-983 form, officially 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 aligns with their academic background and future career goals. Understanding how to fill out this form accurately is essential for a successful application, so take the first step by clicking the button below to get started.

Article Structure

The ICE I-983 form plays a pivotal role in the realm of international student training programs in the United States, specifically for those involved in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This form is designed to ensure that students on F-1 visas receive a structured and meaningful training experience while contributing to their professional development. A comprehensive understanding of the I-983 is essential for both students and their employers, as it outlines the training objectives, the responsibilities of the student and the employer, and the evaluation process that will be utilized throughout the training period. The form emphasizes the importance of aligning the training with the student’s academic background and career goals, thereby fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between the student and the employer. Additionally, it requires detailed information about the training site, the supervision provided, and the methods of assessing the student’s progress. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in the I-983, stakeholders can ensure compliance with immigration regulations while maximizing the educational value of the training experience.

Form Sample

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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⇩ PDF

Document Specifications

Fact Name	Details
Purpose	The I-983 form is used to outline the training plan for F-1 students applying for STEM OPT extension.
Eligibility	Students must have completed a degree in a qualifying STEM field to be eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
Submission	The form must be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO) for approval before applying for the STEM OPT.
Components	The I-983 includes sections for student information, employer information, training plan, and evaluation criteria.
Evaluation	Students must conduct evaluations of their training progress every 12 months and submit them to their DSO.
Compliance	Both the student and the employer must comply with the terms outlined in the training plan to maintain legal status.
Governing Law	The form is governed by U.S. immigration law, specifically under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 8, Part 214.2(f).
Signature Requirement	The form requires signatures from both the student and the employer to validate the training plan.
Updates	Any significant changes in the training plan must be reported to the DSO and may require a new I-983 submission.

Steps to Filling Out ICE I-983

Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your process. Completing this form accurately will help ensure that you meet the necessary requirements for your program. Follow these steps carefully to provide the required information.

Begin with your personal information. Fill in your name, address, and contact details in the designated sections.
Provide your SEVIS ID, which is crucial for tracking your status.
In the section for the employer's information, include the company name, address, and contact information.
Describe the position you will hold. Clearly outline your job title and the specific duties you will perform.
Detail the goals of your training. Explain what you hope to learn and how it relates to your academic program.
Identify the skills you will gain during this experience. Be specific about how these skills will benefit your future career.
In the section for evaluation, indicate how your progress will be assessed. Include any feedback mechanisms that will be used.
Finally, review your form for accuracy. Make sure all information is complete and correct before submission.

Once you have filled out the form, gather any additional documentation required and submit it as directed. Make sure to keep copies for your records.

More About ICE I-983

What is the ICE I-983 form?

The ICE I-983 form, formally known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a document required for students on F-1 visas who are applying for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This form outlines the training and work experience that the student will receive during their employment with a U.S. employer. It serves to ensure that the training is directly related to the student's field of study and provides a structured plan for their professional development.

Who needs to complete the I-983 form?

The I-983 form must be completed by F-1 students who are seeking a 24-month extension of their OPT in a STEM field. Both the student and their employer are involved in the completion of this form. The student is responsible for providing information about their educational background and the proposed training, while the employer must detail how they will provide the training and support the student’s development in their field.

What information is required on the I-983 form?

The I-983 form requires detailed information about the student, the employer, and the training program. This includes the student’s personal details, the employer’s information, and a description of the training objectives. Additionally, the form must outline how the training will enhance the student’s skills and knowledge, as well as the methods of supervision and evaluation that will be used. The completion of the form should reflect a clear connection between the student’s academic background and the proposed work experience.

How do I submit the I-983 form?

After completing the I-983 form, the student must submit it to their designated school official (DSO) for review. The DSO will evaluate the plan to ensure it meets the requirements set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, the DSO will provide a recommendation in the student’s SEVIS record. The student then must apply for the STEM OPT extension through USCIS, including the approved I-983 form as part of their application package.

Common mistakes

Inaccurate Information: One common mistake is providing incorrect or incomplete information. This can include misspellings, wrong dates, or inaccurate details about the student’s program or the employer. Always double-check your entries to ensure they are accurate.
Neglecting to Sign: Failing to sign the form is another frequent error. Both the student and the employer must sign the I-983 form. Without these signatures, the form is considered incomplete, which can delay processing.
Insufficient Details on Training Plans: The training plan section requires a clear and comprehensive description of the proposed training. Many individuals provide vague or overly general descriptions, which do not adequately explain the learning objectives or how they relate to the student’s field of study.
Ignoring Reporting Requirements: Some people overlook the reporting requirements outlined in the form. It is essential to understand the obligations for reporting any changes in the training plan or the student’s status. Not adhering to these requirements can lead to complications with visa status.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is essential for students applying for the STEM Optional Practical Training extension. However, it is often accompanied by other important forms and documents that support the application process and ensure compliance with regulations. Below is a list of commonly used documents that may be required 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 United States during their OPT period. Completing this form is crucial for obtaining the necessary work permit.
Form I-20: Issued by the student's educational institution, this document confirms the student's eligibility for the STEM OPT extension. It includes details about the student's program and the proposed training opportunity.
Employer's Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job offer, including the position, responsibilities, and how the role relates to the student’s field of study. This letter supports the training plan outlined in the I-983 form.
Proof of Enrollment: This document demonstrates that the student is currently enrolled in a qualifying degree program. It may include transcripts or enrollment verification letters from the educational institution.

By gathering these documents, students can strengthen their applications and facilitate a smoother process for obtaining the STEM OPT extension. Each document plays a vital role in providing the necessary information and assurance to the U.S. government regarding the student's training and employment situation.

Similar forms

The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," shares similarities with the Form I-20, which is used for international students. Both documents are essential for maintaining lawful status in the United States. The Form I-20 outlines the student's program of study, including the start and end dates, and confirms their eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Just as the I-983 details the training plan and goals for the student’s practical experience, the I-20 serves as a blueprint for the student’s academic journey, ensuring that both the educational and practical components align with the regulations set forth by U.S. immigration authorities.

Another document that parallels the I-983 is the Form DS-2019, which is utilized for J-1 exchange visitors. Like the I-983, the DS-2019 outlines the purpose of the individual's stay in the U.S. and the training or educational program they will engage in. Both forms require the endorsement of a designated school official or program sponsor, ensuring that the training or educational experience meets specific criteria. The DS-2019, however, focuses more on the cultural exchange aspect, while the I-983 emphasizes the practical training and skill development in a STEM field.

The Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is also similar to the I-983 in that both are integral to the employment process for international students. The I-765 allows students to apply for work authorization, while the I-983 provides a detailed outline of how the employment will contribute to the student’s educational and professional development. Both forms must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the application process for work authorization, linking the student's academic pursuits with practical work experience in their field.

Lastly, the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is another document that bears resemblance to the I-983. The I-9 is required for all employees in the U.S. to verify their identity and eligibility to work. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan and learning objectives, the I-9 ensures compliance with employment laws. Both forms emphasize the importance of lawful employment practices and play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the employment relationship for international students engaged in practical training.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, attention to detail is crucial. This form is essential for international students on F-1 visas who are seeking practical training opportunities in the United States. Here are some important do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
Do provide accurate information about your training program.
Do ensure that your Designated School Official (DSO) reviews the form.
Don't leave any sections blank; fill out every required field.
Don't submit the form without double-checking for errors.
Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for students in the STEM fields who wish to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period. However, several misconceptions surround this form. Here are nine common misunderstandings:

The I-983 form is optional.
Many believe that submitting the I-983 is not necessary. In reality, it is a required document for students seeking STEM OPT extension. Without it, the application cannot be processed.
Only the student needs to fill out the form.
Some think that only the student is responsible for completing the I-983. However, the employer must also provide information and sign the document, ensuring that both parties are aligned on the training plan.
The I-983 form is only about job duties.
While job responsibilities are a key part of the form, it also requires details about the training goals, how the training will benefit the student, and how the employer will provide oversight.
Once submitted, the I-983 cannot be changed.
This is not true. If there are changes in the training plan or employment situation, students can update the I-983 and resubmit it. Keeping the information current is essential.
The I-983 form is only for new employers.
Some individuals think that the form is only necessary when starting a new job. However, it is also required when there are significant changes in the training plan, even with the same employer.
Filling out the I-983 guarantees OPT approval.
Completing the form correctly is important, but it does not guarantee that the STEM OPT extension will be approved. Other eligibility requirements must also be met.
The I-983 form is only for international students.
While it is primarily used by international students in STEM fields, U.S. citizens and permanent residents can also benefit from similar training plans in different contexts.
There is no need for an employer to be involved in the I-983 process.
This is a misconception. The employer's role is vital, as they must agree to the training plan and provide the necessary support and resources for the student’s development.
Once the I-983 is approved, no further action is needed.
Approval of the I-983 does not mean that no further steps are required. Students must continue to comply with all OPT regulations and report any changes to their designated school official (DSO).

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that students navigate the STEM OPT process more effectively and avoid potential pitfalls. It’s essential to approach the I-983 form with accurate information and a clear understanding of its requirements.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form is essential for students on F-1 visas seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extensions. It outlines the training plan and ensures compliance with program requirements.
Complete All Sections: Every section of the form must be filled out thoroughly. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or denials in your application.
Collaboration is Key: Work closely with your employer to develop the training plan. Their input is crucial for creating a realistic and beneficial experience.
Review and Revise: After drafting the form, review it carefully. Make sure all information is accurate and reflects your training objectives.
Submit on Time: Be aware of deadlines. Submit the completed I-983 form to your designated school official (DSO) promptly to avoid any issues with your visa status.
Keep Copies: Retain copies of the submitted I-983 form and any related documents. This will be helpful for future reference or if any questions arise.