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Content Overview

The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students in the United States. Designed to facilitate the training of F-1 visa holders, this form outlines the training plan that students must submit to the U.S. government. It serves as a framework for both the student and the employer, ensuring that the training aligns with the student’s field of study and provides valuable work experience. Key components of the I-983 include a description of the training opportunity, the learning objectives, and the employer’s commitment to providing mentorship. Additionally, the form requires information on how the training will be evaluated and how it relates to the student’s academic program. Completing the I-983 is not just a formality; it is a necessary step that fosters a productive partnership between educational institutions and employers, ultimately enhancing the professional development of international students.

Key takeaways

  • Understanding the ICE I-983 form is essential for international students seeking to apply for STEM OPT extension.

  • Ensure that all information provided on the form is accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing.

  • The form requires a detailed description of the training opportunity, so take the time to explain how it relates to your degree.

  • Collaboration with your employer is crucial; they must sign the form to confirm their commitment to your training.

  • Regular evaluations are part of the process; you will need to submit progress reports every six months.

  • Be mindful of the deadlines associated with the form; submitting it late can impact your eligibility for the STEM OPT extension.

  • Review the regulatory requirements to ensure that your training meets the necessary criteria for the STEM OPT program.

  • Keep a copy of the completed I-983 form for your records; you may need it for future reference.

  • Seek guidance from your Designated School Official (DSO) if you have questions or need clarification on any part of the form.

  • Remember, the I-983 form is not just a requirement; it’s an opportunity to outline how your training will enhance your professional skills.

Guide to Writing ICE I-983

Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step for students seeking to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Completing this form accurately is essential for ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. Follow the steps below to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to understand the requirements and sections of the form.
  3. In Section 1, provide your personal information, including your name, SEVIS ID, and degree program details.
  4. In Section 2, describe your training opportunity. Include the name of the employer, the address, and the specific job title.
  5. In Section 3, outline the goals of your training. Clearly state what you hope to achieve and how it relates to your field of study.
  6. In Section 4, detail the training plan. This should include a description of the tasks you will perform and the skills you will develop.
  7. In Section 5, indicate how your progress will be evaluated. Specify the methods and frequency of evaluations.
  8. In Section 6, provide information about your employer’s commitment to your training. This may include signatures from your employer and your academic advisor.
  9. Review all the information you have entered for accuracy and completeness.
  10. Sign and date the form where indicated. Ensure that all required signatures are obtained.
  11. Submit the completed form to your designated school official (DSO) for approval.

Form Preview Example

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

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form is essential for students seeking to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). However, several other forms and documents are often needed to support the application process. Below is a list of important forms that complement the I-983, each serving a unique purpose in the immigration and training process.

  • Form I-20: This document is issued by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. It certifies that the student is eligible for F-1 or M-1 student status and outlines the program of study.
  • Form I-765: The Application for Employment Authorization allows eligible students to request permission to work in the U.S. while on OPT or CPT. This form is crucial for obtaining a work permit.
  • Form I-94: This is the Arrival/Departure Record issued to foreign visitors when they enter the U.S. It provides proof of legal entry and outlines the duration of stay.
  • Employment Verification Form: This form is used to confirm the employment history of current or former employees, including details such as job title and dates of employment. For more information, visit OnlineLawDocs.com.
  • Employer Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job offer, including position, responsibilities, and how it relates to the student's field of study. This helps demonstrate the relevance of the training experience.
  • Personal Statement: A narrative that explains the student’s career goals and how the training will help achieve them. This document can provide context and strengthen the application.
  • Resume: A current resume detailing the student’s education, skills, and work experience. This supports the application by showcasing qualifications and readiness for the position.
  • Transcripts: Official academic records from the educational institution showing the student’s course history and grades. Transcripts help verify the student’s academic progress and eligibility.
  • Job Offer Letter: A formal letter from the employer confirming the job offer. This document is vital for establishing the legitimacy of the employment opportunity.
  • Financial Support Documents: Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses during the training period. This may include bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Gathering these documents alongside the ICE I-983 form can help ensure a smoother application process. Each piece plays a vital role in demonstrating eligibility and intent, making it easier to navigate the complexities of training and employment in the U.S.