ICE I-983 PDF Form

1. 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 an F-1 visa 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 with a U.S. employer. The purpose of the I-983 is to ensure that the training is directly related to the student’s field of study and provides a structured learning experience.

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

   Any F-1 visa student who is applying for a STEM OPT extension must submit the I-983 form. This includes students who have completed a degree in a qualifying STEM field and wish to extend their practical training period by an additional 24 months. Both the student and their employer must collaborate to complete the form accurately.

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

   The I-983 form requires detailed information about the student, their degree, and the employer. Key sections include:

   • Student’s personal information, including their SEVIS ID and degree details.
   • Employer’s information, such as the company name, address, and the supervisor’s contact details.
   • A description of the training plan, including the goals of the training, the specific tasks the student will perform, and how these relate to the student’s field of study.
   • Evaluation and assessment methods to measure the student’s progress and success during the training period.
4. 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 set aside a few hours to gather the necessary information and collaborate with their employer. It's crucial to ensure that all sections are filled out accurately and comprehensively. The process may take longer if there are delays in communication between the student and their employer.

5. Where do I submit the I-983 form?

   The I-983 form is not submitted directly to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Instead, students must submit the form to their Designated School Official (DSO) at their educational institution. The DSO will review the form, provide any necessary guidance, and then update the student’s SEVIS record. Once the DSO has approved the form, the student can then apply for the STEM OPT extension.

6. What happens if my I-983 form is incomplete or incorrect?

   If the I-983 form is incomplete or contains errors, the DSO may return it for corrections. This can delay the processing of the STEM OPT application. It’s essential to review the form thoroughly before submission to avoid any issues. If there are significant changes to the training plan after the form has been submitted, the student must report these changes to their DSO and update the I-983 accordingly.

7. Can I change employers while on STEM OPT?

   Yes, students can change employers while on STEM OPT, but they must file a new I-983 form with the new employer. The new training plan must be submitted to the DSO for approval. It is important to ensure that the new position also meets the requirements of the STEM OPT program, including being directly related to the student’s field of study.

Detailed Guide for Using ICE I-983

Completing the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your application process. It requires careful attention to detail to ensure that all information is accurate and complete. Once you have filled out the form, you will submit it as part of your application, which will be reviewed by the appropriate authorities.

1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
2. Read the instructions carefully to understand what information is required.
3. Fill in your personal information, including your name, address, and contact details in the designated sections.
4. Provide details about your educational institution, including its name, address, and the program you are enrolled in.
5. Describe the training opportunity you are applying for. Include the title of the position, the start and end dates, and a brief description of the duties involved.
6. Outline the goals and objectives of your training experience. Be specific about what you hope to learn and achieve.
7. Identify the skills you will gain during the training and how they relate to your academic program.
8. Include information about your supervisor at the training site. Provide their name, title, and contact information.
9. Sign and date the form to certify that the information provided is accurate.
10. Review the completed form for any errors or omissions before submission.

After completing these steps, ensure that you keep a copy of the form for your records. Submitting the I-983 form correctly is crucial for the next stages of your application process.

The ICE I-983 form, which is essential for students applying for STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT), often requires the submission of additional documents to ensure a complete application. Below is a list of forms and documents that may accompany the I-983, each serving a specific purpose in the application process.

• Form I-765: This form is used to apply for employment authorization. It is necessary for students seeking to work in the U.S. under the STEM OPT extension.
• Form I-20: Issued by the educational institution, this document verifies the student’s enrollment and eligibility for the OPT program.
• Job Offer Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job position, responsibilities, and terms of employment is crucial for demonstrating the relevance of the position to the student’s field of study.
• Employer's EIN: The Employer Identification Number is required to confirm the legitimacy of the employer and their ability to provide training and employment.
• Training Plan: This document outlines the training and learning objectives for the student, ensuring that the work aligns with their academic goals.
• Resume: A current resume helps to provide an overview of the student’s qualifications and experiences relevant to the position.
• Proof of Degree: Documentation such as transcripts or diplomas may be required to verify that the student has completed their degree in a STEM field.
• Personal Statement: A statement explaining the student’s career goals and how the proposed employment will help achieve them can strengthen the application.
• Employer's Training Agreement: This agreement outlines the responsibilities of both the employer and the student, ensuring mutual understanding of the training objectives.

Submitting these additional documents along with the ICE I-983 form can greatly enhance the chances of a successful application. Each document plays a vital role in demonstrating eligibility and commitment to the training program.

The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is primarily designed for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the STEM fields. One document that shares similarities with the I-983 is the Form I-20. The Form I-20 is issued by educational institutions to certify a student’s enrollment and eligibility for F-1 status. Like the I-983, it requires detailed information about the student’s program and the nature of their studies, ensuring that students are engaged in activities that support their educational goals.

Another document akin to the I-983 is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The EAD serves as proof that a non-citizen is authorized to work in the United States. Both the I-983 and the EAD are essential for international students to legally gain work experience in their field of study. They emphasize the importance of aligning work opportunities with academic training, ensuring that students can develop skills relevant to their degree.

The Form I-765 is also similar to the I-983 in that it is a request for employment authorization. This form must be filed by F-1 students seeking to apply for OPT. While the I-983 outlines the training plan, the I-765 is the actual application that allows students to receive permission to work. Both documents are interdependent, as the I-983 must be completed and submitted alongside the I-765 to demonstrate that the work is directly related to the student’s field of study.

The Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is another document that shares a common purpose with the I-983. Employers must complete the I-9 for every employee they hire to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Similar to the I-983, the I-9 ensures that the employment opportunity aligns with legal requirements, safeguarding both the employer and the employee.

The Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is relevant for students who may seek legal assistance with their applications. While it is not directly related to the I-983, it can accompany the form if a legal representative is involved. Both documents facilitate communication with immigration authorities and ensure that the student’s rights and responsibilities are clearly understood.

The Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, is another document that parallels the I-983 in terms of student eligibility. Issued to J-1 visa holders, the DS-2019 outlines the participant's program and the objectives of their exchange experience. Like the I-983, it requires detailed information about the training or work experience, ensuring that participants are engaged in activities that enhance their educational journey.

The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is important for tracking an individual’s immigration status while in the U.S. Although it does not require a training plan, it is essential for ensuring that students maintain their legal status during their stay. The I-983 complements the I-94 by providing a framework for students to engage in practical training that is aligned with their academic pursuits.

Additionally, the Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is relevant for students who may wish to travel outside the U.S. while on OPT. While the I-983 focuses on training, the I-131 allows students to apply for re-entry to the U.S. after travel. Both documents require careful attention to detail to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to protect the student’s ability to continue their training upon return.

Finally, the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is a long-term document that reflects the journey of a non-citizen toward becoming a U.S. citizen. While it is not directly related to the I-983, it represents a significant milestone that many international students aspire to achieve. Both documents are part of a larger immigration process, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations and maintaining a clear path toward educational and professional goals.