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The journey of international students in the United States seeking practical training opportunities is paved with various procedural steps, one of which involves the ICE I-983 form. This particular form plays a pivotal role in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension process, offering students the chance to gain valuable hands-on work experience in their field of study. Its completion is not just a bureaucratic hurdle but a critical step in ensuring that the proposed employment directly correlates with the student's academic discipline, thereby enhancing their educational experience. Employers also find themselves deeply involved in this process as they need to attest to the training plan's validity, which includes detailing the specific knowledge and skills the student will acquire during their employment. The form further serves as a binding agreement between the student, the employer, and the educational institution, requiring periodic evaluations of the student's progress. Navigating the intricacies of the ICE I-983 form is essential for maintaining compliance with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regulations, ensuring that both the spirit and letter of the law are followed, thereby safeguarding the educational integrity of the STEM OPT extension program.

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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
Click for PDF Form

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose of the Form The ICE I-983 form is designed to develop and document a formal training plan for STEM OPT students by their employers.
Required by Whom This form must be completed by employers who intend to hire students under the STEM OPT extension program.
Key Components The form requires details on the training program, including objectives, resources, supervision, and measures for evaluating the student's performance.
Governing Laws It is governed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations surrounding the STEM OPT extension under the F-1 visa program.

Steps to Writing ICE I-983

Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step in extending one's practical training opportunities in the United States under certain visa categories. It's essential to approach this document with attention to detail, as it directly impacts one's educational and professional journey. The form seeks information to ensure that the practical training experience complements the academic knowledge gained. The following instructions are designed to help you complete the form accurately and efficiently.

  1. Gather necessary documents, including your most recent Form I-20, passport, and training plan.
  2. Section 1 - Student Information: Fill in your full name exactly as it appears on your passport. Include your mailing address, date of birth, and SEVIS number, which can be found on your Form I-20.
  3. Section 2 - School Information: Enter the name and address of the educational institution where you obtained or are obtaining your degree. Fill in your designated school official's (DSO) name and contact information.
  4. Section 3 - Employer Information: Provide the full legal name of your employer, the Employer Identification Number (EIN), and complete address, including a point of contact.
  5. Section 4 - Student Certification: Carefully read the certification statements. By signing this section, you attest to your understanding and compliance with the terms of your practical training.
  6. Section 5 - Employer Certification: This section must be completed by your direct supervisor or the designated signatory within your company. The signature attests to the accuracy of the information provided and the employer's commitment to follow the training plan.
  7. Section 6 - Training Plan: Work with your employer to detail the objectives, goals, and means of oversight for your practical training. This part is crucial and must show how the training directly relates to your major area of study.
  8. Review all sections carefully to ensure accuracy. Any errors or inaccuracies may delay processing times or affect approval.
  9. Submit the completed form to your DSO, not directly to ICE, for their review and further instructions. Your DSO will guide you through the submission process and inform you of any additional steps.

After submitting the form, a period of review follows, during which your DSO and ICE scrutinize the proposed training plan for compliance with program regulations. It's a waiting game, but your thorough and truthful completion of the I-983 will facilitate a smoother review process. Meanwhile, maintain open communication with your DSO, as their support and guidance can be invaluable during this time. Completing the ICE I-983 is a vital step toward enhancing your academic journey with practical work experience in your field of study.

Important Details 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 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It's designed for students on STEM OPT extensions to outline a structured training program with their employer. The form ensures that the practical training experience aligns with the student’s STEM degree and supports their educational objectives.

Who needs to complete the ICE I-983 form?

Both the STEM OPT student and their employer must complete the ICE I-983 form. Every student applying for a 24-month STEM OPT extension must submit this form to their Designated School Official (DSO) as part of the STEM OPT application process. Employers are responsible for helping fill out certain sections, particularly those related to the training plan.

When should the ICE I-983 form be submitted?

The form must be submitted to the DSO before the STEM OPT student starts their 24-month extension period. It's crucial to provide the completed form in a timely manner to avoid delays or complications with the STEM OPT extension request. Ideally, students should work with their employers to complete and submit this form soon after deciding to apply for the STEM OPT extension.

What information is required on the ICE I-983 form?

The ICE I-983 form requires detailed information about the training program, including the goals of the program, specific knowledge, skills, or techniques the student will learn, and how the program aligns with the student’s STEM degree. It also demands employer information, such as the name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN), along with the name and contact information of the person directly supervising the student’s training.

What happens if the ICE I-983 form is not filled out correctly or is incomplete?

Submitting an incomplete or incorrectly filled ICE I-983 form can lead to delays or denial of the STEM OPT extension. It's essential for both the student and employer to carefully review the form for completeness and accuracy before submission. If the DSO or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) finds errors or omissions, they may request a corrected form, which can delay the application process.

Can the training program outlined in the ICE I-983 form be changed?

Yes, changes to the training program can be made after the ICE I-983 form has been submitted. However, significant changes to the training plan, such as changes in employer, location of employment, or reduction in compensation, require notifying the DSO and submitting a new form reflecting these changes within 10 days. Minor changes should still be documented and kept on record by the employer.

Where can one find help completing the ICE I-983 form?

Assistance with completing the ICE I-983 form can be found through the student’s DSO, as they are familiar with the requirements and common pitfalls. Employers might also seek guidance from legal counsel specializing in immigration law to ensure compliance with the regulations governing the STEM OPT program. Additionally, ICE’s official website provides resources and guidance on completing the form accurately.

Common mistakes

Filling out the ICE I-983 form, a critical document for students on STEM OPT extensions, often presents numerous pitfalls. First and foremost, a common error is providing incorrect or outdated information about the employer. The form requires current and precise data reflecting the employer's name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN). Mistakes in this section can lead to delays or rejections, disrupting the OPT extension process.

Another frequent oversight occurs in the section detailing the training plan. Participants sometimes provide a vague or generic description of their training objectives and methods. For the STEM OPT extension to be approved, the plan must clearly align with the student’s degree and career goals. It is essential to articulate how the training will enhance specific skills within the STEM field, using measurable milestones and a clear timeline.

Failure to properly outline wages, working conditions, and employee benefits is another critical error. The I-983 form mandates transparency about the terms and conditions of employment to ensure they are commensurate with those applicable to similarly situated U.S. workers. Neglecting to detail or inaccurately stating this information can raise red flags during the review process and potentially invalidate the STEM OPT extension.

Students and employers also often overlook the importance of signing and dating the form in all required sections. Each party must sign to attest to the accuracy of the information provided and their commitment to adhere to the program requirements. Missing or inconsistent signatures can result in the entire application being questioned or deemed incomplete.

Lastly, the requirement for regular evaluations is frequently misunderstood or ignored. The I-983 form requires both initial and annual evaluations to be completed and signed by the student and the employer. These evaluations are pivotal in documenting the progress and fulfillment of the training objectives. Failure to submit these evaluations in a timely manner can jeopardize the student’s legal status in the U.S. and the continuation of the STEM OPT extension.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, integral to the STEM OPT extension process for F-1 visa students, necessitates thorough documentation to validate both the employer's commitment and the student's eligibility. This comprehensive approach ensures that every step of the practical training aligns with the educational objectives of the student's degree program. Along with the I-983 form, several other documents play a critical role in maintaining compliance and fulfilling the requirements set by immigration authorities. Below is a list of documents often used in conjunction with the I-983 form, each serving an essential purpose in the administrative process.

  • I-20 Form - Issued by the student's educational institution, this document certifies the student's eligibility for non-immigrant student status. It serves as proof of the student's lawful enrollment in a DHS-approved institution.
  • Passport - A valid passport is required to verify the student's identity and nationality. It must remain valid during the entire period of the student’s stay in the United States.
  • Visa - The F-1 visa stamped on the student's passport authorizes their entry into the U.S. as a student. Its validity is crucial for maintaining legal status.
  • I-94 Form - This arrival/departure record indicates the student’s admission into the U.S. and is used to determine immigration status and employment authorization periods.
  • Previous Employment Verification - Documents verifying any previous practical training employment can be necessary, especially if the student is applying for an extension beyond the initial 12 months of OPT.
  • SSN (Social Security Number) or Application Receipt - While not always immediately available to new students, evidence of an SSN or proof of application is required for payroll and taxation purposes.
  • EAD (Employment Authorization Document) - This card provides evidence of the student’s authorization to work legally in the U.S. for a specific period under OPT, pending or post-approval of the STEM extension.
  • Proof of Degree - A diploma or official transcript serves as proof that the student has completed a degree program eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
  • Training Plan - A detailed training plan, which is part of the I-983 form, outlines the goals and objectives of the STEM OPT employment, including a description of how the employment directly relates to the student’s degree program.

Together, these documents form the backbone of a well-structured application for the STEM OPT extension. Each plays a vital role in illustrating the legitimacy of the student's training program, their educational background, and their commitment to adhere to the guidelines set forth by U.S. immigration laws. Proper preparation and understanding of these documents can significantly streamline the application process, ensuring a smoother transition for both students and employers navigating the complexities of the STEM OPT extension.

Similar forms

The I-983 form, utilized by U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), shares similarities with the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form in its core purpose of verifying employment eligibility within the United States. Both documents require detailed information from employees concerning their eligibility and authorization to work, albeit the I-983 specifically caters to students under the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

Another document akin to the I-983 form is the DS-160, a Nonimmigrant Visa Application used by prospective visitors to the U.S. Similar to the I-983, the DS-160 collects in-depth personal and eligibility information, but it is designed for a broader range of nonimmigrant visa applicants, not just those involved in educational work programs.

The Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," also shares resemblance with the I-983 in that they both serve students seeking to pursue education in the U.S. While the I-983 is specifically for those in the STEM OPT extension, the I-20 is essential for all international students on F-1 visas, marking their eligibility to study in the United States.

The Labor Condition Application (LCA) is analogous to the I-983 form in its function of ensuring fair labor practices. Employers filing the LCA commit to certain conditions regarding wages and working conditions, which parallels the I-983’s goal of protecting STEM OPT students and maintaining integrity within the STEM fields.

Similarly, the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) application bears resemblance to the I-983 by aiming to protect the U.S. labor market. The PERM application ensures that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job, and the employment of the foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers, a principle echoed in the protective measures of the I-983 form.

The Adjustment of Status application (Form I-485) which individuals inside the United States use to apply for lawful permanent resident status, shares its essence with the I-983 in guiding non-native individuals through a formal U.S. legal process. The I-983 focuses on employment and training for students, while the I-485 encompasses a broader spectrum of eligibility criteria for permanent residency.

The H-1B visa petition, designed for employing foreign workers in specialty occupations, parallels the I-983 form in its emphasis on the employment sector, particularly in fields requiring highly specialized knowledge. The I-983 caters to students in STEM OPT seeking practical training, whereas the H-1B visa facilitates the temporary employment of foreign workers in specialty occupations in the U.S.

Lastly, the J-1 Visa Application for Exchange Visitors is comparable to the I-983, as both are integral to educational and cultural exchange programs. The J-1 visa supports a variety of exchange visitors, including students, scholars, and interns, to engage in programs that promote cultural exchange, much like the I-983 supports the educational and practical training component for international students in STEM fields.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the ICE Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, individuals must be thorough and accurate. This document is crucial for maintaining compliance with the requirements of the STEM OPT extension. Here is a list of dos and don'ts to guide you through the process:

  • Do ensure that all the information provided is accurate and up-to-date. This includes contact information, Employer Identification Number (EIN), and the details of the training program.
  • Do have a clear understanding of the training objectives and how they relate to your field of study. This will be essential in completing Section 3 of the form effectively.
  • Do obtain the necessary signatures from your employer’s authorized official and from yourself before submitting the form. Unsigned forms will not be processed.
  • Do include specific measures for evaluating the progress and achievements of your training. This should be a key part of your training plan in Section 5 of the form.
  • Do keep copies of the completed form and all related correspondence for your records. This documentation will be important for maintaining your status and for future reference.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank. If a section does not apply to you, indicate with “N/A” (Not Applicable) instead of leaving it empty.
  • Don't provide false or misleading information. This can result in serious consequences including the denial of your STEM OPT extension or future immigration benefits.
  • Don't forget to update the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with any changes to your training program. This includes changes to your employer’s address, your employment status, or the objectives of your training program.
  • Don't send the form to the wrong office. The completed I-983 must be retained by the employer and the student must provide a copy to their Designated School Official (DSO) for inclusion in their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form is crucial for international students in the United States seeking practical training opportunities. However, misconceptions about this form abound, complicating what should be a straightforward process. Here, we dispel some of the most common misunderstandings.

  • It's Only the Student's Responsibility: One of the most prevalent myths is that the I-983 form is solely the student's responsibility. In truth, completion of this form is a collaborative effort between the student and their employer. The form requires detailed information about the proposed training plan, including objectives, means of evaluation, and employer’s oversight mechanism. This necessitates active involvement and communication between both parties to accurately fill out the form.

  • It's a One-Time Submission: Another common misconception is that the I-983 form is a one-time submission with no need for future updates. However, the form must be updated with any material changes to the training plan, such as any change in employer information, compensation, or a significant change in the training program’s scope. Additionally, students and employers are required to complete an annual self-evaluation, which must be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO). Keeping the I-983 updated is critical for maintaining the student's immigration status.

  • It Guarantees Visa Approval: Some students and employers might mistakenly believe that submitting the I-983 form guarantees approval of the student’s visa or training program. However, this form is part of the eligibility process for optional practical training (OPT) and STEM OPT extension but does not guarantee visa approval by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Approval depends on several factors, including the student’s immigration status, their employer's compliance with the program requirements, and the merits of the training plan itself.

  • The Form Is Only Relevant for STEM Fields: While it's true that the form is associated with the STEM OPT extension, which is specific to students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields, thinking that its relevance is limited to these areas is a misconception. The form's requirements — such as ensuring the training opportunity is directly related to the student’s major area of study and providing a genuine learning experience — are based on principles that can apply broadly across various types of practical training experiences in other fields. The focus is on the educational benefit and integrity of the training program.

Understanding these misconceptions can help students navigate the complexities of the I-983 form more effectively, ensuring a smoother process in securing and maintaining their practical training opportunities in the United States. Clear communication and cooperation between the student, their employer, and the educational institution are key to this endeavor.

Key takeaways

The ICE I-983 form is crucial for students on STEM OPT extensions and their employers, ensuring that both parties meet the requirements set by the U.S. government. Here are key takeaways to remember when filling out and using this form:

  • The form must be completed accurately by both the student and the employer, highlighting the training program's objectives, materials, and procedures.
  • It is essential to ensure that the information provided reflects a genuine employer-employee relationship, where the employer actively manages and supervises the employee.
  • The form requires detailed information about the training plan, including how it will enhance the student’s education, the full name, and address of the employer, and the designated official who will monitor the student’s progress.
  • Both the student and the employer are responsible for updating the form if any significant changes occur in the training plan or employment situation. This includes changes in duties, work address, or supervisor.
  • The student and employer must sign the form, affirming that the information provided is accurate and that they will adhere to the training plan as outlined.
  • The form serves as a commitment by the employer to provide a structured and guided work-based learning experience, which directly relates to the student’s major area of study.
  • Failure to comply with the requirements of the STEM OPT extension, including the completion and updating of the ICE I-983 form, may result in the termination of the student’s OPT status.
  • Upon completion of the STEM OPT extension, both the student and the employer must complete a final evaluation, documented on the form, to assess the program's effectiveness and the student's achievements.
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