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Blank ICE I-983 PDF Form

The ICE I-983 form is a document required for students on F-1 visas who are participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). This form outlines the training plan and ensures that the experience aligns with the student’s field of study. To get started on filling out the form, click the button below.

Article Guide

The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) process for international students in the United States, particularly those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This form is designed to outline the training plan that a student will follow while on OPT, ensuring that the experience aligns with their academic background and career goals. It serves as a mutual agreement between the student and the employer, detailing the objectives of the training, the skills to be developed, and the methods for evaluating the student’s progress. The I-983 form also requires information about the employer, including their commitment to providing a structured learning environment. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. immigration regulations, ensuring that both parties understand their responsibilities during the training period. Proper completion of this form is essential, as it not only facilitates the OPT application process but also helps to safeguard the integrity of the program, benefiting students and employers alike.

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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: 5/31/2025

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:

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 reductio n 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:

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:
	A. Salary Amount and Frequency:

	B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):	B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
	1.
	2.
	3.
	3.
	4.
	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:
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Date (mm-dd-yyyy):	Printed Name of Employing Organization:

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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

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:

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.

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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:
Printed Name of Student:						Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:						Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS

Range of Evaluation Dates: From (mm-dd-yyyy):

To (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Student:

Printed Name of Student:

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The ICE I-983 form is used for students on F-1 visas who are participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). It outlines the training plan and ensures compliance with program requirements.
Requirements	Students must complete the I-983 form in collaboration with their employer. It requires details about the training opportunity, including the goals and objectives of the experience.
Submission	The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student’s educational institution. The DSO reviews and approves the plan before it is submitted to ICE.
Governing Laws	The I-983 form is governed by federal regulations under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, specifically 8 CFR § 214.2(f)(10)(ii)(C).

ICE I-983: Usage Guidelines

Completing the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your application process. After you fill out the form, it will need to be submitted to the appropriate authorities for review. Make sure to gather all necessary information before you begin, as this will help streamline the process.

Start by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website or obtain a physical copy from your institution.
Read through the entire form to understand what information is required in each section.
Begin filling out Section 1, which includes your personal information such as your name, address, and contact details.
Move on to Section 2, where you will need to provide details about your academic program and the institution you are attending.
In Section 3, describe your proposed training program. Be specific about the goals and objectives you hope to achieve.
Section 4 requires you to outline the specific tasks and duties you will be performing during your training.
Complete Section 5 by providing information about your employer and the location where the training will take place.
In Section 6, detail how the training relates to your field of study and how it will enhance your skills.
Once you have filled out all sections, review the form carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
Sign and date the form at the designated areas, confirming that all information provided is true to the best of your knowledge.
Make copies of the completed form for your records before submitting it to the appropriate office.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the ICE I-983 form?

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a crucial document for international students on an F-1 visa who are seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This form outlines the training and work experience that the student will receive during their employment, ensuring that it aligns with their academic background and career goals.

Who needs to complete the I-983 form?

Any F-1 student who is applying for the STEM OPT extension must complete the I-983 form. This includes students who have already completed their initial 12-month OPT period and are looking to extend their work authorization for an additional 24 months. Both the student and their employer must collaborate to fill out this form accurately, as it requires detailed information about the training plan and the employer's commitment to provide the necessary training.

What information is required on the I-983 form?

The I-983 form requires a variety of information, including the student's personal details, their degree information, and the employer's information. Additionally, it outlines the training goals, the specific duties the student will perform, and how these duties relate to their field of study. Employers must also describe how they will provide mentorship and oversight, ensuring the student gains valuable experience during their employment.

How is the I-983 form submitted?

After completing the I-983 form, the student must submit it to their Designated School Official (DSO) for review. The DSO will ensure that the form meets all requirements and then provide the student with a new Form I-20 that reflects the STEM OPT extension. It is essential to submit the I-983 form and obtain the new Form I-20 before the initial OPT period expires to maintain legal work status.

What happens if the I-983 form is not completed correctly?

If the I-983 form is not completed accurately or if it lacks necessary information, it may lead to delays in the STEM OPT extension application process. In some cases, it could result in the denial of the application. Therefore, it is vital to take the time to fill out the form carefully, ensuring that all sections are completed thoroughly and correctly. Consulting with a DSO or an immigration advisor can help clarify any uncertainties during this process.

Common mistakes

Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to provide all required information. Omitting sections can lead to delays or denials. Every field must be filled out accurately.
Incorrect Employer Details: Providing wrong or outdated employer information is a common mistake. Ensure that the company name, address, and contact details are current and correct.
Failure to Sign: Some applicants forget to sign the form. A signature is essential, as it verifies the authenticity of the information provided.
Not Updating Changes: If there are changes in the training plan or employment status, failing to update the form can lead to complications. Always keep the form current.
Inadequate Training Plan: The training plan must be detailed and specific. Vague descriptions may not meet the requirements and can result in rejection.
Ignoring Submission Guidelines: Each form has specific submission guidelines. Ignoring these can lead to processing issues. Always follow the instructions provided.
Neglecting to Review: Failing to review the form before submission can result in overlooked errors. A thorough review can catch mistakes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is an essential document for students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in STEM fields. Alongside the I-983 form, several other documents are commonly required to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to facilitate the application process. Below is a list of these documents, along with brief descriptions of each.

Form I-20: This document is issued by the educational institution and certifies the student's eligibility for the F-1 visa. It contains information about the student's program of study and is necessary for maintaining legal status while in the United States.
Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Students must submit this form to apply for work authorization under the OPT program. It includes personal information and details about the requested employment period.
Employer Letter: A letter from the employer is often required to confirm the job offer and outline the specific duties and responsibilities associated with the position. This letter should also verify that the role is directly related to the student's field of study.
Evidence of Employment: This may include pay stubs, an offer letter, or other documentation that demonstrates the student is engaged in practical training. Such evidence supports the application and shows compliance with OPT requirements.

These documents collectively support the application process for STEM OPT and ensure that students remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws. Proper documentation is crucial for a successful application and for maintaining lawful status while pursuing practical training opportunities.

Similar forms

The ICE I-983 form is an important document for international students in the U.S. who are participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). It outlines the training plan and ensures compliance with program requirements. Here are six other documents that share similarities with the I-983 form:

Form I-20: This document is issued by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and certifies a student's eligibility for F-1 status. Like the I-983, it requires detailed information about the student's program and training.
Form DS-2019: Issued for J-1 visa holders, this form outlines the purpose of the exchange program. Similar to the I-983, it includes information about the participant’s training and the host organization.
Form I-765: This is the application for employment authorization. It is similar to the I-983 in that it requires information about the job and the employer, ensuring that the employment aligns with the student’s field of study.
Form I-9: This form is used to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals hired for employment in the U.S. Like the I-983, it ensures that the training or job aligns with legal requirements.
Form W-4: This form is used by employees to indicate their tax situation to their employer. While not directly related to training, it is similar in that it collects essential information to ensure compliance with regulations.
Form 1040: This is the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Like the I-983, it requires accurate reporting of information to comply with U.S. laws, though it focuses on tax obligations rather than training plans.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is crucial to approach the task with care and attention to detail. This form is essential for students seeking to participate in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). Below are ten guidelines to help navigate this process effectively.

Do read the instructions thoroughly before starting the form.
Do ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Do clearly outline the training goals and objectives.
Do include the names and titles of all individuals involved in the training.
Do provide a detailed description of the employer's business.

Don't leave any sections blank; if a question does not apply, indicate that.
Don't use vague language; be specific about your role and responsibilities.
Don't forget to review the form for grammatical and typographical errors.
Don't submit the form without obtaining the necessary signatures.
Don't underestimate the importance of compliance with all reporting requirements.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance the likelihood of a smooth and successful application process. Taking the time to ensure that each detail is correct will serve you well in your professional journey.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is often misunderstood. Below are six common misconceptions about this form, along with clarifications.

Misconception 1: The I-983 form is only for students in engineering fields.

This form is applicable to all STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, not just engineering. Students from various disciplines can utilize this form as long as their degree qualifies under the STEM OPT extension.

Misconception 2: Completing the I-983 form is optional.

The I-983 form is a required document for students applying for the STEM OPT extension. It outlines the training plan and must be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the application process.

Misconception 3: The employer does not need to be involved in the I-983 form.

Employer involvement is crucial. The form requires both the student and the employer to collaborate on the training plan. The employer must sign the form, indicating their commitment to providing the necessary training and support.

Misconception 4: The I-983 form only needs to be completed once.

Students must update and resubmit the I-983 form if there are significant changes to their training plan or employment situation. Regular updates ensure compliance with the STEM OPT requirements.

Misconception 5: The I-983 form guarantees approval of the STEM OPT extension.

While the I-983 form is necessary for the application, its completion does not guarantee approval. USCIS reviews all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering various factors beyond just the I-983.

Misconception 6: The I-983 form can be filled out quickly without much thought.

Filling out the I-983 form requires careful consideration and planning. Students should take the time to articulate their training objectives, employer's role, and how the training relates to their degree. A well-thought-out plan can enhance the chances of a successful application.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, it is essential to keep several key points in mind. The following takeaways will help ensure that the process is clear and efficient:

Understand the purpose: The I-983 form is designed for students in STEM fields seeking to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and to ensure compliance with training requirements.
Complete all sections: Every section of the form must be filled out accurately. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or denials of applications.
Provide detailed information: Include specific details about the training opportunity, including the employer’s information and the nature of the training.
Outline learning objectives: Clearly define the learning objectives that the student aims to achieve during the training period.
Include evaluation criteria: Describe how the student’s progress will be evaluated throughout the training. This helps ensure accountability.
Seek guidance: Consult with a Designated School Official (DSO) or an immigration attorney if there are any uncertainties about completing the form.
Review before submission: Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness. Mistakes can lead to complications in the application process.
Keep a copy: Retain a copy of the completed I-983 form for personal records. This can be helpful for future reference or inquiries.