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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 ensure that students are engaging in practical training that complements their academic studies, providing a structured framework for learning and professional development. When filling out the I-983, students must outline their training goals, the specific tasks they will undertake, and how these tasks relate to their degree. Additionally, the form requires students to collaborate with their employers, who must also provide details about the training environment and supervision. This collaborative effort not only enhances the educational experience but also helps maintain compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. Understanding the nuances of the I-983 form is essential for students seeking to maximize their OPT experience while adhering to the guidelines set forth by the U.S. government.

Sample - ICE I-983 Form

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:

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 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:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):

 

 

 

 

 

 

Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 4: EMPLOYER CERTIFICATION

I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements and information made herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that the law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.

I certify on behalf of the employer that this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (“Plan”) is approved and that:

1.I have reviewed and understand this Plan, and I will ensure that the supervising Official follows this Plan;

2.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity regarding any material changes to this Plan, including but not limited to, any change of Employer Identification Number resulting from a corporate restructuring, any reduction in compensation from the amount previously submitted on the Plan that is not tied to a reduction in hours worked, any significant decrease in hours per week that a student engages in a STEM training opportunity, and any decrease in hours below the 20-hours-per-week minimum required under this rule;

3.Within five business days of the termination or departure of the student during the authorized period of OPT, I will report such termination or departure to the DSO (Note: business days do not include federal holidays or weekend days; and an employer shall consider a student to have departed when the employer knows the student has left the practical training opportunity, or when the student has not reported for practical training for a period of five consecutive business days without the consent of the employer); and

4.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214), which include, but are not limited to, the following:

a.The student’s practical training opportunity is directly related to the STEM degree that qualifies the student for the STEM OPT extension, and the position offered to the student achieves the objectives of his or her participation in this training program;

b.The student will receive on-site supervision and training, consistent with this Plan, by experienced and knowledgeable staff;

c.The employer has sufficient resources and personnel to provide the specified training program set forth in this Plan, and the employer is prepared to implement that program, including at the location(s) identified in this Plan;

d.The student on a STEM OPT extension will not replace a full- or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker. The terms and conditions of the STEM practical training opportunity—including duties, hours, and compensation—are commensurate with the terms and conditions applicable to the employer’s similarly situated U.S. workers or, if the employer does not employ and has not recently employed more than two similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment, the terms and conditions of other similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment; and

e.The training conducted pursuant to this Plan complies with all applicable Federal and State requirements relating to employment.

Note: DHS may, at its discretion, conduct a site visit of the employer to ensure that program requirements are being met, including that the employer possesses and maintains the ability and resources to provide structured and guided work-based learning experiences consistent with this Plan.

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

Date (mm-dd-yyyy):

Printed Name of Employing Organization:

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)

Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name):

Employer Name:

EMPLOYER SITE INFORMATION

Site Name:

Name of Official:

Official's Email:

Site Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):

Official's Title:

Official's Phone Number:

Note: for the remaining fields in this section, employers who already have an internal/pre-existing training plan in place may fill in the details based on that plan.

Student Role: Describe the student's role with the employer and how that role is directly related to enhancing the student's knowledge obtained through his or her qualifying STEM degree.

Goals and Objectives: Describe how the assignment(s) with the employer will help the student achieve his or her specific objectives for work-based learning related to his or her STEM degree. The description must both specify the student's goals regarding specific knowledge, skills, or techniques as well as the means by which they will be achieved.

Employer Oversight: Explain how the employer provides oversight and supervision of individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such oversight and supervision, please describe.

Measures and Assessments: Explain how the employer measures and confirms whether individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student are acquiring new knowledge and skills. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such measures and assessments, please describe.

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.

SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION

I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements and information made herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that the law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.

Employer Official with Signatory Authority - I certify that:

1.I have reviewed, understand, and will follow this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (Plan);

2.I will conduct the required periodic evaluations of the student;*

3.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214.2(f)(10)(ii)); and

4.I will notify the DSO regarding any material changes to or material deviations from this Plan at the earliest available opportunity, including if I believe the student is not receiving appropriate training as delineated in this Plan.

Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:

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):

ICE Form I-983 (7/16)

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Form Information

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-983 form is used to outline the training plan for F-1 students applying for STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Eligibility Students must be enrolled in a STEM degree program and have a job offer related to their field of study.
Training Plan The form requires detailed information about the employer, the job role, and the training objectives.
Employer Responsibilities Employers must agree to provide mentoring and ensure that the training meets the educational goals of the student.
Submission The I-983 must be submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) for approval before applying for STEM OPT.
Duration Students can apply for a maximum of 24 months of additional OPT under the STEM extension.
Review Process The DSO will review the I-983 for completeness and compliance before recommending the STEM OPT application.
Updates Students must report any material changes to their training plan to their DSO within 10 days.
Governing Law The I-983 form is governed by U.S. immigration laws and regulations, specifically under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidelines.
Form Availability The I-983 form can be downloaded from the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out ICE I-983

Filling out the ICE I-983 form requires careful attention to detail. Each section of the form must be completed accurately to ensure compliance with the necessary regulations. After completing the form, it will need to be submitted as part of the application process for specific programs.

  1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
  2. Provide your personal information in the designated fields. This includes your name, address, and contact details.
  3. Fill in the information about your academic institution, including its name and address.
  4. Enter details regarding your degree program and the expected graduation date.
  5. Describe the training opportunity. This includes the title of the position and a brief overview of the training activities.
  6. Outline the goals of the training program, specifying what skills and knowledge you aim to acquire.
  7. Detail the supervision plan, including the name and contact information of your supervisor.
  8. Explain how the training will benefit both you and the employer.
  9. Review the form for accuracy and completeness before submission.
  10. Submit the completed form as instructed, ensuring you retain a copy for your records.

Obtain Answers on ICE I-983

  1. What is the ICE I-983 form?

    The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a document required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for students on F-1 visas who are applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. This form outlines the training and work experience that the student will receive during their OPT period.

  2. Who needs to complete the I-983 form?

    The I-983 form must be completed by students who are applying for a STEM OPT extension. This includes students who have already completed an initial period of OPT and are seeking to extend their work authorization by an additional 24 months in a STEM field. The employer must also participate in the completion of this form.

  3. What information is required on the I-983 form?

    The I-983 form requires various details, including:

    • Student's personal information, including contact details and educational background.
    • Employer's information, including the company's name, address, and contact person.
    • A description of the training plan, outlining the goals, objectives, and how the training relates to the student’s degree.
    • Details about the employer's commitment to providing mentorship and supervision during the training period.
    • Information about how the training will be evaluated and how the student’s progress will be monitored.

  4. How is the I-983 form submitted?

    The I-983 form is not submitted directly to USCIS. Instead, it must be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO) at their educational institution. The DSO will review the form and update the student's SEVIS record accordingly. A copy of the completed form should also be kept for the student's records.

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

    If the I-983 form is not completed accurately or lacks required information, it may lead to delays in the STEM OPT application process. In some cases, it could result in the denial of the application. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all sections are filled out thoroughly and correctly before submission.

  6. Can changes be made to the I-983 form after it has been submitted?

    Yes, if there are any changes to the training plan, the student and employer must update the I-983 form accordingly. Significant changes, such as a new employer or a substantial alteration in the training plan, must be reported to the DSO, who will then update the student's SEVIS record. It is essential to maintain accurate and current information throughout the OPT period.

  7. Where can I find resources to help complete the I-983 form?

    Resources for completing the I-983 form can be found on the USCIS website, where guidance and instructions are provided. Additionally, many educational institutions offer workshops or one-on-one advising sessions for students seeking assistance with the form. It may also be beneficial to consult with the employer to ensure that the training plan aligns with the company's expectations and requirements.

Common mistakes

Filling out the ICE I-983 form can be a complex task, and many individuals make common mistakes that can delay the process. One frequent error is providing incomplete information. Ensure that all sections are filled out completely. Missing details can lead to confusion and may require additional follow-up.

Another mistake is failing to clearly define the training objectives. The training plan should outline specific goals and how they relate to the student’s academic program. Vague descriptions can hinder the approval process, so be precise and detailed.

Some individuals overlook the importance of aligning the training with their field of study. The ICE I-983 form requires that the proposed training directly relates to the student’s degree. Ensure that you explain this connection thoroughly to avoid potential issues.

Inaccurate dates can also cause problems. Make sure to double-check all dates provided on the form, including the start and end dates of the training. Incorrect dates can lead to misunderstandings about the duration of the training program.

Another common mistake is neglecting to include the required signatures. Both the student and the designated school official (DSO) must sign the form. Missing signatures can delay processing and create unnecessary complications.

Many people fail to provide a detailed explanation of the employer’s responsibilities. The employer should clearly outline how they will support the training and what resources will be available. This information is crucial for demonstrating the legitimacy of the training opportunity.

Additionally, some individuals do not thoroughly review the form before submission. Taking the time to proofread can help catch errors and ensure clarity. A well-organized and error-free form reflects professionalism and attention to detail.

Another mistake is not keeping a copy of the submitted form. It’s important to retain a copy for your records, as you may need to reference it later. This practice can save time and effort in case any questions arise.

Some applicants underestimate the importance of the evaluation process. The form requires a plan for evaluating the student’s progress. Clearly outline how evaluations will be conducted and what criteria will be used to measure success.

Lastly, failing to submit the form on time can lead to significant issues. Be aware of deadlines and ensure that the form is submitted well in advance. Timely submissions help maintain compliance and avoid unnecessary stress.

Documents used along the form

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is essential for students on STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). It outlines the training and learning objectives of the student's employment. Alongside this form, several other documents are often required or recommended to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to facilitate the training process. Below is a list of these important forms and documents.

  • Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Students must submit this form to apply for work authorization under the OPT program.
  • Form I-20: Issued by the educational institution, this form certifies the student’s enrollment and eligibility for OPT. It must be updated to reflect the student's OPT request.
  • Employer Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job offer, including position, responsibilities, and how it relates to the student’s field of study. This helps validate the training plan.
  • Job Description: A detailed description of the job duties and responsibilities. This document should clearly show how the position aligns with the student’s academic background.
  • Performance Evaluation Plan: This outlines how the student’s performance will be assessed during the training period, ensuring that learning objectives are met.
  • Training Agreement: A written agreement between the student and the employer outlining the terms of the training, including duration, supervision, and learning objectives.
  • Resume: An updated resume that highlights the student’s educational background, work experience, and skills relevant to the position being offered.
  • Evidence of Degree: Documentation proving the student’s degree completion, such as transcripts or diplomas, which may be necessary for verification purposes.
  • Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of the student’s passport and visa status may be required to confirm eligibility for employment under the OPT program.

These documents work together to support the I-983 form and ensure that all parties involved understand their roles and responsibilities. Having these forms ready can help streamline the application process and maintain compliance with immigration regulations.

Similar forms

The ICE I-983 form, which is essential for students on STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training), shares similarities with several other important documents used in various immigration and educational contexts. Here’s a list of nine documents that have comparable purposes or structures:

  • Form I-20: Issued by SEVP-certified schools, this document certifies a student's eligibility for F-1 status and outlines the program of study, much like how the I-983 details the training plan for STEM OPT students.
  • Form I-94: This form records a non-citizen's arrival and departure in the U.S. It serves as proof of legal status, similar to how the I-983 confirms the student’s eligibility for practical training.
  • Form DS-2019: Used for J-1 visa holders, this document outlines the exchange visitor program and is akin to the I-983 in that it provides a framework for the participant's experience in the U.S.
  • Form I-765: This application for employment authorization allows students to apply for work permits. Like the I-983, it is crucial for students seeking to engage in practical training.
  • Form I-140: This petition for an immigrant worker is submitted by employers for foreign nationals. It similarly requires detailed information about the job and the employee, much like the employer's responsibilities outlined in the I-983.
  • Form G-28: This notice of entry of appearance as attorney or accredited representative is used by legal representatives in immigration matters. It parallels the I-983 in the sense that both involve formal documentation and representation in immigration processes.
  • Form N-400: The application for naturalization, which requires detailed personal information and background, shares the I-983's need for thorough documentation regarding the applicant's qualifications and intentions.
  • Form I-131: This application for a travel document allows individuals to apply for re-entry into the U.S. It also requires detailed information about the applicant's status and plans, similar to the I-983's focus on training and employment.
  • Form I-601: This application for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility necessitates a detailed explanation of the applicant's situation, much like the I-983 requires a comprehensive training plan from the student and employer.

Each of these documents serves a unique purpose but shares a common thread of providing essential information and structure for individuals navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration and employment regulations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information.
  • Do double-check all entries for spelling and numerical errors.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do ask for help if you’re unsure about any section.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it thoroughly.
  • Don't use abbreviations unless specified.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure accuracy.

Misconceptions

The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for students participating in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. However, several misconceptions surround this form. Below are five common misunderstandings along with clarifications.

  • The I-983 form is only for students in engineering fields. This is incorrect. The I-983 form is applicable to all STEM fields recognized by the Department of Homeland Security, not just engineering.
  • Filling out the I-983 form is optional. This misconception is false. Completing the I-983 form is a requirement for students seeking STEM OPT extensions. Failure to submit it can lead to complications with your application.
  • The employer is solely responsible for the I-983 form. This is misleading. While employers play a significant role in the process, students must also actively participate in completing and signing the form. Both parties share responsibility.
  • Once the I-983 form is submitted, it cannot be changed. This is not true. If circumstances change, students can update the I-983 form. However, it is important to inform the Designated School Official (DSO) of any changes promptly.
  • The I-983 form guarantees job placement. This is a misconception. Completing the I-983 form does not ensure employment. It is a necessary document for maintaining your status while seeking opportunities in your field.

Understanding these misconceptions can help students navigate the STEM OPT process more effectively. It is crucial to approach the I-983 form with accurate information and a clear understanding of its requirements.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the ICE I-983 form, there are several important points to keep in mind. Here are six key takeaways to guide you through the process:

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form is essential for STEM OPT applicants. It outlines the training plan and ensures that the experience is related to your field of study.
  • Accurate Information: Provide precise and truthful information. Inaccuracies can lead to delays or even denial of your application.
  • Collaboration is Key: Work closely with your employer to complete the form. Their input is crucial, especially in detailing the training plan.
  • Review Before Submission: Thoroughly review the completed form. Ensure that all sections are filled out correctly and that there are no missing signatures.
  • Timely Submission: Submit the I-983 form to your designated school official (DSO) promptly. Adhering to deadlines is vital for maintaining your status.
  • Regular Updates: If there are changes in your training plan or employment, update the I-983 form and notify your DSO immediately.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, you can navigate the I-983 form with greater ease and confidence.