Structure
The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students in the United States. This form is designed to outline a student's training plan, ensuring that it aligns with their academic program and career goals. It serves as a framework for students to articulate their learning objectives, the skills they will acquire, and how the training will enhance their educational experience. Additionally, the form requires the involvement of the designated school official (DSO), who must review and approve the plan before submission. This collaborative approach not only facilitates compliance with U.S. immigration regulations but also promotes meaningful work experiences that benefit both the student and their employer. Furthermore, the I-983 form emphasizes the importance of mentorship and evaluation, outlining the responsibilities of the employer in providing guidance and feedback throughout the training period. Understanding the components and requirements of the I-983 form is essential for international students seeking to maximize their practical training opportunities while maintaining their visa status.
Common mistakes
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Failing to provide accurate information. It is crucial to ensure that all details, such as names, addresses, and contact information, are correct. Inaccuracies can lead to delays or denials.
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Not signing the form. A signature is required to validate the information provided. Omitting this step can result in the form being considered incomplete.
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Leaving sections blank. Every section of the form must be addressed. Blank sections may raise questions or cause processing delays.
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Using outdated information. Ensure that the form reflects current information, especially regarding the employer and the training program. Outdated details can lead to complications.
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Providing insufficient detail in the training plan. The training plan should clearly outline the objectives and how the experience will benefit the student. Vague descriptions can lead to misunderstandings.
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Not adhering to formatting guidelines. Follow any specified formatting requirements, such as font size and style. Non-compliance can make the form difficult to read.
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Failing to include supporting documentation. Necessary documents, such as the employer's letter or program details, should accompany the form. Missing documents can hinder the review process.
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Ignoring deadlines. Submit the form within the required time frame. Late submissions may result in automatic disqualification.
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Not keeping a copy of the submitted form. Retaining a copy is important for future reference. It can help clarify any questions that arise during the processing of the application.
Preview - ICE I-983 Form
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS
OMB APPROVAL NO.
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT)
SECTION 1: STUDENT INFORMATION (Completed by Student)
Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name): |
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Student Email Address: |
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Name of School Recommending |
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Name of School Where STEM |
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SEVIS School Code of School Recommending STEM OPT (including 3- |
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STEM OPT: |
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Degree Was Earned: |
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Designated School Official (DSO) Name and Contact Information: |
Student SEVIS ID No.: |
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STEM OPT Requested Period |
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From: |
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To: |
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Qualifying Major and Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Code: |
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Level/Type of Qualifying Degree: |
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Date Awarded
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
Signature of Student (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Student: |
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Date |
ICE Form |
Page 1 of 5 |
SECTION 3: EMPLOYER INFORMATION (Completed by Employer)
Employer Name: |
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Street Address: |
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Suite: |
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Employer Website URL: |
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City: |
State: |
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ZIP Code: |
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Employer ID Number (EIN): |
Number of |
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code: |
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Employees in U.S.: |
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OPT Hours Per Week (must be at least 20 |
Compensation: |
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hours/week): |
A. Salary Amount and Frequency: |
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B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value): |
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Start Date of Employment |
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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
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
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
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
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Date |
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Printed Name of Employing Organization: |
ICE Form |
Page 2 of 5 |
SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)
Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name):
Employer Name:
EMPLOYER SITE INFORMATION
Site Name:
Name of Official:
Official's Email:
Site Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):
Official's Title:
Official's Phone Number:
Note: for the remaining fields in this section, employers who already have an
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
Employer Oversight: Explain how the employer provides oversight and supervision of individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named
Measures and Assessments: Explain how the employer measures and confirms whether individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named
ICE Form |
Page 3 of 5 |
Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.
SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements and information made herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that the law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.
Employer Official with Signatory Authority - I certify that:
1.I have reviewed, understand, and will follow this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (Plan);
2.I will conduct the required periodic evaluations of the student;*
3.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214.2(f)(10)(ii)); and
4.I will notify the DSO regarding any material changes to or material deviations from this Plan at the earliest available opportunity, including if I believe the student is not receiving appropriate training as delineated in this Plan.
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Date
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.
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,
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 |
Page 4 of 5 |
EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Provide a
Range of Evaluation Dates: From |
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To |
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Signature of Student (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Student: |
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Date |
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority: |
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Date |
FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Provide a
Range of Evaluation Dates: From |
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To |
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Signature of Student (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Student: |
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Date |
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority: |
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Date |
ICE Form |
Page 5 of 5 |
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Documents used along the form
The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States. This form outlines the training plan that the student will undertake during their employment in a STEM field. Alongside the I-983, several other forms and documents are commonly required to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to facilitate the OPT process. Below is a list of these documents.
- Form I-765: This is the "Application for Employment Authorization." Students must submit this form to request permission to work in the United States during their OPT period. It includes personal information and details about the desired employment.
- Form I-20: Issued by the student's Designated School Official (DSO), this form certifies that the student is enrolled in a qualifying program and is eligible for OPT. It must be updated to reflect the student's OPT request and the proposed training plan.
- Employer's Letter: A letter from the employer is often required. This letter should confirm the job offer, outline the nature of the work, and detail how it relates to the student’s field of study. It serves as additional documentation to support the I-983 form.
- Job Description: A detailed job description may be requested. This document provides clarity on the specific duties and responsibilities of the position, ensuring that it aligns with the training plan outlined in the I-983.
- New York Mobile Home Bill of Sale: This form serves as a legal document that facilitates the transfer of ownership of a mobile home from one party to another and is crucial for ensuring the process is clear and documented. For more details, you can check the Mobile Home Bill of Sale.
- Proof of Employment: Students may need to provide documentation that verifies their employment status. This can include pay stubs, an employment verification letter, or other official documents that demonstrate the student is actively engaged in their training.
In conclusion, the ICE I-983 form plays a pivotal role in the STEM OPT process, but it is essential to accompany it with other supporting documents. Each of these forms and letters helps to create a comprehensive picture of the student's training and employment situation, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. Proper preparation and submission of these documents can facilitate a smoother experience for students navigating their OPT opportunities.
Similar forms
The ICE I-983 form, used for STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT), shares similarities with the Form I-20, which is issued to international students in the United States. Both documents serve as essential tools for maintaining legal status while pursuing educational and professional opportunities. The Form I-20 outlines a student’s program of study and is crucial for obtaining a student visa. Like the I-983, it requires specific information about the student’s academic and career goals, ensuring that both forms align with the individual’s educational path and future employment plans.
For LLCs in Florida, understanding the critical aspects of their structure is essential, and this is where the importance of a robust Operating Agreement comes into play, providing a foundation for effectively managing company operations. To delve deeper into this topic, you can explore what an "essential Operating Agreement template" entails by visiting this informative page.
Another document that resembles the ICE I-983 is the Form DS-2019, which is utilized for J-1 exchange visitors. This form, like the I-983, is vital for individuals participating in work-based learning experiences in the U.S. Both documents require a detailed description of the training or work program, emphasizing the importance of the experience in the participant’s professional development. The Form DS-2019 also includes information about the program sponsor, similar to how the I-983 requires details about the employer and the training plan.
The Labor Condition Application (LCA) is another document that shares characteristics with the ICE I-983. The LCA is required for employers sponsoring H-1B visa workers and ensures that the employment conditions meet specific labor standards. Both forms focus on the employer’s commitment to providing training and support for the employee. The I-983 emphasizes the educational component of the training, while the LCA ensures that the employment does not adversely affect wages and working conditions for U.S. workers.
Lastly, the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is similar to the ICE I-983 in that both are essential for individuals seeking to work legally in the U.S. The I-765 allows eligible applicants to request permission to work, while the I-983 outlines the training and educational objectives of the employment. Each document plays a crucial role in ensuring that the applicant adheres to immigration regulations while gaining practical experience in their field of study. Both forms require detailed information about the applicant’s qualifications and the nature of the work or training being pursued.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it's essential to approach the task with care. Here are five things you should and shouldn't do to ensure your form is completed accurately and effectively.
- Do: Read the instructions thoroughly before starting. Understanding the requirements will help you avoid common mistakes.
- Do: Provide clear and concise information. Use straightforward language to describe your training program and objectives.
- Do: Double-check all entries for accuracy. Mistakes can lead to delays or complications in your application.
- Do: Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This will be useful for future reference or if you need to follow up.
- Do: Seek assistance if needed. Don't hesitate to reach out to your Designated School Official (DSO) or an advisor for guidance.
- Don't: Rush through the form. Taking your time can prevent errors and ensure that you provide all necessary details.
- Don't: Leave any sections blank. If a question does not apply, indicate that clearly instead of skipping it.
- Don't: Use jargon or overly technical language. Aim for clarity so that anyone reading the form can understand your responses.
- Don't: Forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form is considered incomplete and may be rejected.
- Don't: Submit the form without reviewing it one last time. A final check can catch any errors you might have missed.
Key takeaways
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it’s essential to keep several key points in mind to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are some important takeaways:
- Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form is designed for students in STEM fields applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT). It outlines the training plan and how it relates to their degree.
- Collaboration is Key: Work closely with your employer to develop a comprehensive training plan. Their input is crucial for a successful application.
- Detail Your Learning Objectives: Clearly outline what skills and knowledge you aim to gain during your training. This section should reflect your academic background and career goals.
- Include Employer Information: Ensure that all employer details are accurate. This includes the company name, address, and contact information.
- Compliance with Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the rules surrounding OPT and the responsibilities of both the student and the employer. This knowledge is vital for maintaining your status.
- Review Before Submission: Double-check all entries for completeness and accuracy. An error could delay your application or lead to denial.
- Keep Copies: Retain copies of the completed form and any supporting documents. These records will be useful for future reference and potential audits.
By following these takeaways, you can navigate the I-983 form process more smoothly, ensuring that your training experience aligns with your educational objectives.
How to Use ICE I-983
Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an essential step for students seeking to apply for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This form helps outline the training plan and ensures compliance with program requirements. As you prepare to fill out the form, keep in mind that clarity and accuracy are crucial. Below are the steps to guide you through the process.
- Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
- Read the instructions carefully to understand what information is required.
- In Section 1, provide your personal information, including your name, SEVIS ID, and contact details.
- Move to Section 2 and fill in the information about your employer. Include the company name, address, and your supervisor’s contact information.
- In Section 3, describe your degree program, including the name of your school, your major, and the date of your graduation.
- Section 4 requires you to outline the specific goals of your training. Clearly articulate what you hope to achieve during this period.
- For Section 5, explain how the training relates to your field of study. Make connections between your academic background and the practical experience you will gain.
- In Section 6, detail the employer’s commitment to providing training. This may include mentorship, resources, and opportunities for professional development.
- Complete Section 7 by outlining the evaluation process. Describe how your progress will be monitored and assessed.
- Finally, review the entire form for accuracy. Ensure that all sections are complete and that your information is correct.
- Once satisfied, sign and date the form. If required, have your employer sign as well.
After completing the ICE I-983 form, you will be ready to submit it along with your application for the STEM OPT extension. Ensure you keep a copy for your records and follow any additional submission guidelines provided by your school or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).