The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a document required for students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This form outlines the training and learning objectives that the student will pursue during their employment. Completing the I-983 form accurately is crucial for compliance with immigration regulations.
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When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are nine things to consider:
Following these guidelines can help facilitate a smoother process when completing the ICE I-983 form.
Incomplete Information: Many people fail to fill out all required sections of the I-983 form. Leaving any fields blank can lead to delays or even rejection of the application. Ensure every question is answered thoroughly.
Incorrect Dates: Providing incorrect or inconsistent dates can create confusion. Always double-check the start and end dates for your training program. Accuracy is crucial.
Not Following Guidelines: Each section of the form has specific instructions. Ignoring these guidelines can result in errors. Read the instructions carefully before completing each part of the form.
Missing Signatures: Failing to sign the form can halt the entire process. Make sure that all required parties, including your designated school official (DSO), have signed the document.
Vague Descriptions: Providing unclear or overly general descriptions of your training objectives can raise red flags. Be specific about what you will be doing and how it relates to your field of study.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is similar to the Form I-20, which is issued by educational institutions to international students. Both documents are essential for maintaining legal status in the U.S. while pursuing education or training. The Form I-20 outlines the student’s program of study and confirms their enrollment, while the I-983 focuses on the practical training component, ensuring that the student’s work experience is directly related to their field of study.
Another document that shares similarities with the I-983 is the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The I-765 is used by foreign nationals to request permission to work in the U.S. While the I-983 details the training plan and objectives, the I-765 is the formal request for employment authorization. Both forms are critical for students on STEM OPT, as they must be submitted to demonstrate eligibility for work authorization.
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The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is also comparable to the I-983. The I-94 is issued to foreign visitors upon entry into the U.S. and provides evidence of their legal status and duration of stay. While the I-983 focuses on the specifics of the training plan, the I-94 ensures that the student is in the country legally, which is essential for participating in the STEM OPT program.
Additionally, the Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, is similar to the I-983 in that it is used for individuals in exchange programs. Both documents are vital for maintaining legal status. The DS-2019 is specifically for exchange visitors, while the I-983 is tailored for students seeking practical training in their field of study.
The Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, also bears similarities to the I-983. The I-140 is used by employers to petition for foreign workers to become permanent residents. While the I-983 outlines a temporary training plan, the I-140 is a step toward long-term employment and residency. Both forms require detailed information about the job and the applicant’s qualifications.
The Labor Condition Application (LCA) is another document that parallels the I-983. The LCA is filed by employers seeking to hire foreign workers on H-1B visas. It ensures that the employment conditions meet labor standards. Like the I-983, the LCA includes specific details about the job, ensuring that the position aligns with the applicant’s qualifications and training.
Furthermore, the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is similar to the I-983 in that it verifies an employee's eligibility to work in the U.S. The I-9 must be completed by employers for all employees, while the I-983 is focused on the training aspect for STEM OPT students. Both documents are crucial for compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
The Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is also relevant. While the G-28 allows an attorney to represent a client in immigration matters, the I-983 requires the student to outline their training plan. Both forms facilitate communication with immigration authorities, ensuring that all parties are informed of the student’s status and plans.
Lastly, the Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card, is similar in that it serves as proof of a person’s legal status in the U.S. While the I-983 is a temporary training plan for students, the I-551 indicates permanent residency. Both documents are essential for maintaining legal status, though they serve different purposes in the immigration process.
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The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a document required for students on the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training extension. This form must be completed by students who are applying for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT. The I-983 outlines the training and learning objectives that the student will pursue during their employment with an employer who is enrolled in the E-Verify program.
The I-983 form requires detailed information in several key areas, including:
Completing the form accurately and thoroughly is essential, as it demonstrates the educational value of the employment opportunity.
The I-983 form plays a critical role in the STEM OPT application process. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires this form to ensure that the employment opportunity is directly related to the student’s degree and provides a structured training experience. If the I-983 is incomplete or does not meet the requirements, it can lead to delays or even denials of the STEM OPT application. Therefore, it's important to pay close attention to the details and ensure that all sections are filled out correctly.
If there are any changes to your training plan after you have submitted the I-983 form, you must report these changes to your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible. The DSO will guide you on how to update your training plan. It’s important to note that significant changes may require a new I-983 form to be completed and submitted to USCIS. Keeping your training plan current ensures compliance with the regulations and helps maintain your legal status in the U.S.
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)
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SECTION 3: EMPLOYER INFORMATION (Completed by Employer)
Employer Name:
Street Address:
Suite:
Employer Website URL:
City:
State:
ZIP Code:
Employer ID Number (EIN):
Number of Full-Time
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code:
Employees in U.S.:
OPT Hours Per Week (must be at least 20
Compensation:
hours/week):
A. Salary Amount and Frequency:
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 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:
Printed Name of Employing Organization:
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SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)
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.
Page 3 of 5
Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.
SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
Employer Official with Signatory Authority - I certify that:
1.I have reviewed, understand, and will follow this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (Plan);
2.I will conduct the required periodic evaluations of the student;*
3.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214.2(f)(10)(ii)); and
4.I will notify the DSO regarding any material changes to or material deviations from this Plan at the earliest available opportunity, including if I believe the student is not receiving appropriate training as delineated in this Plan.
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.
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):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
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