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The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students in the United States. This form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is designed to outline the training and learning objectives that students will pursue during their practical training period. It serves as a roadmap, detailing how the training will enhance the student’s academic experience and contribute to their professional development. Key components of the I-983 include information about the student, the employer, and the specific training plan, which must align with the student’s degree. Additionally, the form requires the employer to commit to providing mentorship and a structured training environment, ensuring that the student gains valuable skills relevant to their field of study. Completing the I-983 accurately is essential for compliance with U.S. immigration regulations, and it must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) before the student can begin their STEM OPT. Understanding the nuances of this form can significantly impact a student's ability to successfully navigate their training experience and fulfill their academic and professional goals.

ICE I-983 Preview

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

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to provide all required details. Each section of the I-983 form must be filled out completely. Missing information can lead to delays or denials.

  2. Incorrect Employer Details: Some applicants mistakenly enter inaccurate information about their employer. It’s essential to ensure that the employer’s name, address, and contact information are correct.

  3. Unclear Learning Objectives: When describing the training objectives, vague or unclear language is often used. Clear and specific learning objectives help to demonstrate the purpose of the training.

  4. Omitting Evaluation Methods: Applicants sometimes forget to include how the training will be evaluated. Clearly outlining evaluation methods is crucial for compliance with the program.

  5. Not Updating the Form: Failing to update the I-983 form when there are changes in the training plan is a common mistake. Regular updates are necessary to reflect any modifications.

  6. Ignoring Signatures: Some applicants neglect to obtain required signatures. All necessary parties must sign the form to validate the training plan.

  7. Submitting Without Review: Rushing to submit the form without a thorough review can lead to errors. Taking the time to double-check the information can prevent complications later.

  8. Not Keeping Copies: Many forget to keep a copy of the completed form for their records. Retaining a copy is important for future reference and any potential inquiries.

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Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it's essential to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before you begin.
  • Do provide accurate information about your program and employer.
  • Do keep your contact information updated throughout the process.
  • Do consult with your designated school official if you have questions.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; if something doesn’t apply, indicate that.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
  • Don't ignore deadlines; submit your form on time to avoid complications.

Following these guidelines can help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure that your application is processed without unnecessary delays.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is often misunderstood. Here are four common misconceptions about this important document:

  • Misconception 1: The I-983 form is only required for new STEM OPT applications.

    • This is not true. The I-983 form must also be submitted for any updates or changes to the training plan, even after the initial application has been approved.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the I-983 form is a simple process that can be done quickly.

    • While the form may seem straightforward, it requires detailed information about the training program, employer, and how the training relates to the student’s degree. Careful thought and planning are necessary.

  • Misconception 3: The I-983 form only needs to be submitted to the school.

    • In reality, the completed form must be submitted to both the Designated School Official (DSO) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the STEM OPT application process.

  • Misconception 4: The I-983 form does not require the employer’s involvement.

    • This is incorrect. The employer plays a crucial role in completing the I-983 form. Their input is essential for outlining the training plan and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Detailed Guide for Using ICE I-983

Completing the ICE I-983 form requires careful attention to detail. Each section of the form must be filled out accurately to ensure compliance with the requirements. Follow these steps to successfully complete the form.

  1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
  2. Read through the entire form to familiarize yourself with its sections.
  3. In Section 1, provide your personal information, including your name, address, and contact details.
  4. Complete Section 2 by entering the name and address of your school or institution.
  5. In Section 3, describe your proposed training program, including the goals and objectives.
  6. Fill out Section 4 with details about the employer, including the name, address, and contact information.
  7. Section 5 requires you to outline the specific tasks and responsibilities you will undertake during the training.
  8. In Section 6, explain how the training aligns with your academic program and career goals.
  9. Section 7 asks for the evaluation methods that will be used to assess your progress.
  10. Finally, review all sections for accuracy and completeness before submitting the form.

After completing the form, ensure that you keep a copy for your records. Submit the form to the appropriate office as instructed on the official guidelines. This will help facilitate the next steps in your training program.