Contents
The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the training and employment of international students in the United States under the STEM OPT extension. This form is designed to outline the details of the student's training plan, ensuring that it aligns with their educational goals and the requirements set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. It requires the student and their employer to provide specific information, including the goals of the training, the employer's responsibilities, and how the training will enhance the student's skills. Additionally, the form mandates a description of the methods used to evaluate the student's progress, ensuring that the training remains effective and relevant. By completing the I-983, both students and employers commit to a structured training experience that benefits all parties involved. This form not only serves as a compliance document but also as a roadmap for the student's professional development in their chosen field.
Preview - ICE I-983 Form
ICE Form I-983 (7/16)
Page 1 of 5
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
STEM OPT:
Name of School Where STEM
Degree Was Earned:
SEVIS School Code of School Recommending STEM OPT (including 3-
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 No
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
Employees in U.S.:
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code:
OPT Hours Per Week (must be at least 20
Compensation:
hours/week):
A. Salary Amount and Frequency:
Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):
B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
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:
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:
Site Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):
Name of Official:
Official's Title:
Official's Email:
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:
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)
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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
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):
Document Specifics
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The I-983 form is used for students applying for STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States. |
| Eligibility | Only students in STEM fields, who are on an F-1 visa, can apply using this form. |
| Training Plan | The form requires a detailed training plan that outlines the student's role and how it relates to their field of study. |
| Employer's Role | Employers must complete and sign the form, confirming their commitment to provide the training described. |
| Submission Process | The completed I-983 form must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the student's school. |
| Governing Laws | The I-983 is governed by federal immigration laws, specifically under the regulations for F-1 visa holders. |
ICE I-983: Usage Instruction
Completing the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your process. After filling out the form, you will submit it as part of your application. This form requires careful attention to detail to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
- Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary documents and information, including your personal details, educational background, and details about your training program.
- Start with Section 1: Fill in your name, SEVIS ID, and the name of your school. Ensure that your information matches what is in your immigration documents.
- Complete Section 2: Provide the details of your training program. Include the name of the organization where you will be training, the address, and the contact information.
- Proceed to Section 3: Describe the goals of your training program. Clearly outline what you hope to achieve during your time in the program.
- Fill out Section 4: Detail the specific tasks you will be performing. Be thorough and precise in explaining your responsibilities.
- Complete Section 5: Discuss how your training relates to your field of study. Make connections between your academic background and the training you will receive.
- Move to Section 6: Provide information about how the training will enhance your skills. This section should reflect your growth and learning objectives.
- Finish with Section 7: Sign and date the form. Ensure that all information is accurate before submission.
After completing these steps, review the form carefully. Ensure that everything is filled out correctly and that there are no missing sections. Once you are satisfied, you can submit the form as required.
Learn More on 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 for students on F-1 visas who are applying for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This form outlines the training and work experience that the student will receive during their employment in a STEM field. It ensures that the training is relevant to the student’s degree and that the employer will provide appropriate supervision and mentorship.
Who needs to fill out the I-983 form?
Any F-1 student who is applying for a 24-month STEM OPT extension must complete the I-983 form. This includes students who have completed a degree in a qualifying STEM field and are currently in their initial 12-month OPT period. Both the student and the employer must collaborate to fill out the form accurately.
What information is required on the I-983 form?
The I-983 form requires several key pieces of information, including:
- The student's personal information and details about their degree.
- The employer's information, including the company name and address.
- A detailed description of the training plan, including the goals, objectives, and how the training relates to the student’s degree.
- Information on how the employer will provide supervision and mentorship.
- Evaluation procedures to assess the student's progress.
How do I submit the I-983 form?
The I-983 form is not submitted directly to USCIS. Instead, students must maintain the form in their records and submit it to their Designated School Official (DSO) at their educational institution. The DSO will review the form and update the student’s SEVIS record accordingly. It’s essential to keep a copy for personal records as well.
What happens if I make changes to my training plan?
If there are any changes to your training plan, you must update the I-983 form and notify your DSO. Significant changes might include a new employer, changes in job responsibilities, or modifications in the training goals. Your DSO will need to approve the changes and update your SEVIS record to ensure compliance with OPT regulations.
How long does it take to complete the I-983 form?
The time it takes to complete the I-983 form can vary. Students should expect to spend a few hours gathering information and collaborating with their employer to ensure all details are accurate and comprehensive. It’s important to take your time to provide thorough and thoughtful responses, as this document is crucial for your STEM OPT application.
Is there a specific format for the I-983 form?
The I-983 form is available in a PDF format on the USCIS website, and it must be filled out electronically. The form includes sections that require both student and employer signatures. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately, as incomplete forms can lead to delays in processing your STEM OPT extension.
Can my employer assist me in completing the I-983 form?
Yes, your employer can and should assist you in completing the I-983 form. Since the training plan involves both the student and the employer, collaboration is key. Employers can provide valuable input regarding the training objectives and how they plan to supervise and evaluate the student’s performance.
What if my employer is not familiar with the I-983 form?
If your employer is unfamiliar with the I-983 form, provide them with resources or direct them to the USCIS website for guidance. It may also be helpful to consult your DSO, who can offer assistance and clarification about the form’s requirements. Open communication between you and your employer is essential for a successful training plan.
What should I do if my I-983 form is rejected?
If your I-983 form is rejected, review the feedback provided by your DSO or the relevant authority. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete sections or lack of clarity in the training plan. Make the necessary revisions and resubmit the form promptly. Staying proactive and addressing any issues quickly can help keep your STEM OPT application on track.
Common mistakes
Completing the ICE I-983 form can be a complex process, and many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate information in all sections. Each part of the form must be filled out thoroughly to ensure that the application is processed without issues.
Another mistake is not updating the form when circumstances change. If there are changes in the training plan or the student’s situation, it is essential to revise the I-983 accordingly. Inaccurate or outdated information can result in misunderstandings or rejections.
Additionally, some individuals neglect to include the required signatures. The form must be signed by both the student and the designated school official. Omitting signatures can lead to the application being considered incomplete.
People often underestimate the importance of the training plan section. This section should clearly outline the goals and objectives of the training. Vague descriptions or lack of detail can create confusion and may lead to the form being rejected.
Another common oversight is failing to provide sufficient justification for the training. The form requires a clear explanation of how the training relates to the student’s field of study. Without this justification, the application may not meet the necessary criteria.
Some applicants also forget to include information about the employer. It is crucial to provide accurate details about the employer’s business and how it relates to the training. Incomplete employer information can raise red flags during the review process.
Additionally, individuals sometimes misinterpret the instructions provided with the form. Carefully reading and understanding the guidelines is essential to avoid errors. Misunderstandings can lead to incorrect information being submitted.
Many people overlook the importance of proofreading the completed form. Simple typographical errors or inconsistencies can detract from the professionalism of the application. Taking the time to review the form before submission can prevent these issues.
Lastly, some applicants fail to keep copies of their submitted forms. Maintaining a record of what has been submitted is crucial for future reference. This practice can be helpful if any questions or issues arise later in the process.
Documents used along the form
The ICE I-983 form is essential for students seeking STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, several other documents are often required to support the I-983 form and ensure compliance with regulations. Below is a list of additional forms and documents that may be necessary in conjunction with the I-983.
- Form I-20: This document is issued by the educational institution and certifies that the student is enrolled in a program. It is crucial for maintaining F-1 visa status.
- Employment Offer Letter: This letter from the employer outlines the job position, responsibilities, and duration of employment. It provides context for the training plan.
- Training Plan: A detailed description of the training objectives, tasks, and how they relate to the student's field of study. This aligns with the goals outlined in the I-983 form.
- Evaluation Reports: These are periodic assessments of the student’s progress during their training. They help demonstrate compliance with the training plan.
- Proof of Employment: Documents such as pay stubs or employment verification letters confirm that the student is actively engaged in their training position.
- Passport Copy: A copy of the student’s passport is often required for identification and verification purposes.
- Visa Documentation: This includes copies of the F-1 visa and any relevant immigration paperwork to ensure the student’s legal status in the U.S.
- Social Security Number (SSN) Application: If applicable, this document shows the student’s application for an SSN, which is necessary for employment in the U.S.
Gathering these documents is crucial for a smooth application process and to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. Each document plays a specific role in supporting the I-983 form and the overall training experience.
Similar forms
The ICE I-983 form, known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, shares similarities with the Form I-20, which is issued by educational institutions to international students. Both documents are essential for maintaining legal status in the United States as they outline the educational and training objectives of the student. The Form I-20 includes details about the student's program of study, while the I-983 focuses on the training plan with an employer. Together, they help ensure that the student's experience aligns with their educational goals and visa requirements.
Another document that bears resemblance to the I-983 is the Form DS-2019, which is used for J-1 exchange visitors. Like the I-983, the DS-2019 outlines the purpose of the individual's stay in the U.S. and provides details about the program. Both forms require endorsement from a designated school official or program sponsor, ensuring that the participant's activities comply with U.S. immigration regulations. They serve as proof of the individual's eligibility to participate in their respective programs.
The Form I-9 is another document that parallels the I-983 in the context of employment. The I-9 verifies the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired in the U.S. While the I-983 focuses on the training aspect of a student's employment, the I-9 confirms that the student is legally allowed to work. Both documents are crucial for maintaining compliance with immigration laws and ensuring that employers are aware of their responsibilities regarding the employment of foreign nationals.
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) application itself is similar to the I-983, as both are part of the process for international students seeking to gain work experience in their field of study. The OPT application requires students to demonstrate how their employment will enhance their academic experience, much like the training plan outlined in the I-983. Both documents must be completed accurately to ensure that the student can legally work in the U.S. after completing their degree.
The Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, also shares a connection with the I-983. While the I-983 details the training plan, the I-765 is the formal request for permission to work in the U.S. Both documents are integral to the process of securing employment for international students on STEM OPT. The I-765 requires information about the student's eligibility, which is supported by the training plan outlined in the I-983.
Another related document is the Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. While the I-983 is focused on temporary training, the I-140 is a step toward permanent residency for foreign workers. Both forms require detailed information about the individual's qualifications and the nature of their employment. The I-140 serves as a bridge for those who wish to transition from temporary training to a more permanent status in the U.S., highlighting the importance of employment in both processes.
The Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, also has some similarities with the I-983 in terms of demonstrating relationships and intentions. While the I-983 focuses on training and employment, the I-130 is used to establish a family relationship that can lead to immigration benefits. Both forms require comprehensive information and documentation to support the claims made, ensuring that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has a clear understanding of the applicant's situation.
Finally, the Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is somewhat similar in that it allows for representation in immigration matters. While it does not directly relate to the training plan, it is often used in conjunction with forms like the I-983 when students seek assistance in navigating their immigration status. Both documents emphasize the importance of proper representation and guidance in the complex landscape of U.S. immigration law.
Dos and Don'ts
Filling out the ICE I-983 form can be a crucial step in your academic and professional journey. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Do provide accurate and complete information.
- Do ensure that your Designated School Official (DSO) reviews the form.
- Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Don't rush through the process; take your time to avoid mistakes.
- Don't leave any required fields blank.
- Don't submit the form without verifying all details for accuracy.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smoother experience with the I-983 form. Good luck!
Misconceptions
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is essential for students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training. However, several misconceptions surround this form. Here’s a list of common misunderstandings:
-
Only the student needs to fill out the I-983 form.
This is incorrect. Both the student and their employer must collaborate to complete the form accurately. The employer's input is crucial for detailing the training plan.
-
The I-983 form is optional for STEM OPT students.
In reality, submitting the I-983 form is a requirement for students applying for STEM OPT extensions. Failure to submit it can lead to denial of the application.
-
The I-983 form only needs to be submitted once.
This is a misconception. If there are any changes in the training plan or the employer, a new I-983 form must be submitted to the designated school official (DSO).
-
Employers do not need to be familiar with the I-983 form.
Employers should understand the I-983 form since they play a significant role in the training plan. Their awareness ensures compliance with the requirements.
-
Completing the I-983 form guarantees STEM OPT approval.
While the I-983 form is necessary, approval is not guaranteed. The application will be evaluated based on various factors, including eligibility and adherence to regulations.
-
The I-983 form is the same for all students.
This is false. Each I-983 form must be tailored to the individual student’s training plan and the specific details of their employment situation.
-
Once submitted, the I-983 form cannot be changed.
This is not true. If there are changes in the training plan or employer, students must update the I-983 form and resubmit it to the DSO.
-
Students can complete the I-983 form without guidance.
While students can fill out the form, it is advisable to seek guidance from a DSO or an experienced advisor to ensure accuracy and compliance.
-
The I-983 form is only for students in research positions.
This is a misconception. The I-983 form applies to all STEM OPT students, regardless of their job role, as long as they are in a qualifying STEM field.
Key takeaways
When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, it's important to keep a few key points in mind. This form is crucial for students participating in STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). Here are some essential takeaways:
- Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form outlines the training plan for students and their employers. It ensures that the training is related to the student’s field of study.
- Provide Detailed Information: Fill out all sections of the form thoroughly. This includes your personal information, employer details, and a clear description of the training objectives.
- Collaboration is Key: Work closely with your employer when completing the form. Their input is vital, as they will be responsible for your training and mentoring.
- Regular Updates: If there are any changes to your training plan or employment situation, you must update the I-983 form. Keeping it current is essential for compliance.
- Submit on Time: Ensure that the completed form is submitted to your Designated School Official (DSO) promptly. Delays can affect your OPT status.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth process as you navigate your training and employment opportunities.