Free ICE I-983 PDF Template Open ICE I-983 Editor Here

Free ICE I-983 PDF Template

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a document required for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training in the United States. This form outlines the training plan and ensures that the experience aligns with the student's field of study. Completing this form accurately is essential for a successful application, so be sure to fill it out by clicking the button below.

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Key takeaways

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

  1. Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form is used for students in STEM fields to outline their training plans while on an F-1 visa.
  2. Complete All Sections: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out completely. Incomplete forms can lead to delays.
  3. Provide Accurate Information: Use precise and truthful information. Misrepresentation can have serious consequences.
  4. Collaboration with Employer: Work closely with your employer to develop a training plan that meets both your educational goals and their needs.
  5. Review Before Submission: Double-check the form for any errors or missing information before submitting it.
  6. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with any changes in regulations regarding the I-983 form and STEM OPT extension.
  7. Keep Copies: Retain copies of the completed form for your records. This can be useful for future reference.
  8. Utilize Resources: Take advantage of resources available at your school or online to help you understand the form better.
  9. Follow Up: After submission, follow up with your school’s international office to ensure everything is in order.

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)

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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

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

Similar forms

The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," serves a specific purpose in the realm of student visas and practical training. One document that is similar to the I-983 is the Form I-20, which is used by F-1 students to apply for a student visa. Like the I-983, the Form I-20 outlines the student’s program of study, duration, and the institution’s responsibilities. Both documents are crucial for maintaining legal status in the U.S. and ensuring that students are engaged in activities that align with their educational goals.

Another document that bears similarities to the I-983 is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) application itself. The OPT application allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. Both the I-983 and the OPT application require detailed information about the student’s employment and how it relates to their academic background. They also emphasize the importance of training and development in a professional setting.

The Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is also comparable to the I-983. This form is necessary for students seeking work authorization while on OPT. Similar to the I-983, the I-765 requires applicants to provide personal information and details about their intended employment. Both documents play a critical role in facilitating a smooth transition from academic to professional life for international students.

The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is another important document related to the I-983. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan, the I-94 records a student’s entry into the U.S. and their visa status. Both documents are essential for maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws. They serve as proof of the student’s legal status and eligibility to participate in work opportunities.

Similarly, the Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, is relevant in the context of exchange programs. While the I-983 is specifically for STEM OPT students, the DS-2019 outlines the details for J-1 exchange visitors. Both documents require information about the individual’s program and sponsor, emphasizing the importance of structured training and educational experiences.

Another document that aligns with the I-983 is the Employment Verification Letter. This letter, typically provided by the employer, confirms the student’s job title, responsibilities, and the nature of the training. Like the I-983, it serves to validate the relationship between the student’s academic background and their work experience. Both documents are crucial for ensuring that the employment is relevant and beneficial to the student’s career development.

The Arizona Articles of Incorporation form is a crucial document required to legally establish a corporation in the state of Arizona. This form outlines the basic information about the corporation, including its name, purpose, and the details of its incorporators. If you're ready to take the first step toward establishing your corporation, click the button below to fill out the form. Additionally, for further assistance and resources related to corporate formation, you can refer to Arizona PDF Forms.

Finally, the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is similar in that it verifies an employee’s eligibility to work in the U.S. While the I-983 focuses on the training aspect, the I-9 is a requirement for all employers. Both forms are integral to ensuring that students and employees are compliant with immigration and employment regulations, thus safeguarding their legal status while in the U.S.

How to Use ICE I-983

Completing the ICE I-983 form is a crucial step in the process of applying for a STEM OPT extension. After filling out this form, you will be able to submit it to your designated school official (DSO) for review and approval. This form outlines the training plan and ensures that you meet the necessary requirements for your STEM extension.

  1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official government website.
  2. Fill in your personal information in Section 1, including your name, SEVIS ID, and degree information.
  3. In Section 2, provide details about your employer, including the company name, address, and your supervisor's contact information.
  4. In Section 3, describe the training opportunity. Include your job title, a detailed description of your role, and the specific tasks you will be performing.
  5. Section 4 requires you to outline the goals of your training program. Clearly state what skills and knowledge you hope to gain.
  6. Complete Section 5 by detailing how your employer will provide supervision and evaluation of your progress during the training period.
  7. In Section 6, indicate how your training relates to your field of study. Make connections between your academic background and the tasks you will perform.
  8. Finally, review the entire form for accuracy and completeness. Make sure all sections are filled out and that there are no errors.
  9. Once satisfied, print the form and sign it. Ensure your employer also signs it in the designated area.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for international students participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. It outlines the training plan for the student and serves as a key component in ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. Alongside the I-983, several other forms and documents are often required to facilitate the OPT process and ensure a smooth experience. Below is a list of these important documents.

  • I-20 Form: This is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. It is issued by the school and verifies that the student is enrolled in a full-time program and is eligible for OPT.
  • Lease Agreement: For a clear understanding of property leasing in Texas, refer to the thorough Texas lease agreement considerations to ensure all terms and conditions are properly addressed.
  • Form G-28: This is a Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. If a student chooses to have legal representation, this form must be submitted to notify USCIS of the representative.
  • Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Students must submit this form to apply for work authorization under the OPT program.
  • Resume: A well-prepared resume is often required to showcase the student’s qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the desired position.
  • Job Offer Letter: This document outlines the terms of employment, including job title, responsibilities, and duration of the position, which is essential for the training plan.
  • Employer's EIN: The Employer Identification Number is a unique number assigned to a business by the IRS. It is necessary for reporting taxes and is often requested in the OPT process.
  • Personal Statement: This document provides insight into the student's goals, aspirations, and how the training relates to their field of study, which can enhance the I-983 application.
  • Proof of Funding: Documentation that shows the student has sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their training period may be required.

Gathering these documents in advance can help streamline the application process and ensure that all requirements are met. Being well-prepared not only aids in compliance but also enhances the overall experience of participating in the OPT program.

Common mistakes

  1. Inaccurate Information: Providing incorrect details about the student's personal information or the employer's information can lead to delays or rejections. Always double-check names, addresses, and contact information.

  2. Insufficient Training Goals: Failing to clearly outline the training goals and objectives can result in a vague understanding of the student's role. Specificity helps to ensure that the training aligns with educational and professional outcomes.

  3. Lack of Signatures: Neglecting to obtain necessary signatures from both the student and the employer can invalidate the form. Each party must acknowledge their responsibilities and commitments.

  4. Ignoring the Evaluation Process: Not addressing how the student's progress will be evaluated can lead to misunderstandings. Clear evaluation criteria should be established to monitor the student's development throughout the training period.

  5. Failure to Update the Form: Not revising the form when there are changes in the training plan or employment circumstances can cause issues. It is essential to keep the I-983 form current to reflect any significant changes.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information.
  • Do double-check all entries for spelling and numerical errors.
  • Do ensure that all required signatures are included.
  • Do submit the form by the specified deadline.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't use abbreviations or acronyms without explaining them.
  • Don't provide misleading or false information.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure accuracy.