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The ICE I-983 form is a critical component for international students participating in the STEM OPT extension program. This form serves as a formal training plan that outlines the practical training experience related to a student’s degree. It requires detailed information about the position, including the employer’s responsibilities, the training methodologies, and how the training will enhance the student’s educational background and professional skills. Additionally, the form mandates a description of how the employer will provide oversight and evaluation of the student’s progress. Ensuring compliance with the regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is essential, as the form also plays a key role in maintaining the student's legal status while working in the United States. Students must coordinate closely with their designated school officials and employers to complete the form accurately and ensure that all necessary signatures are gathered. The thoughtful preparation of the I-983 can significantly impact a student's career path, ensuring they maximize the benefits of their practical training experience.
ICE I-983 Example
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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digit suffix): |
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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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ICE Form |
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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): |
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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 |
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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
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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Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority: |
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ICE Form |
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File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is used by students on an F-1 visa to outline their training plan while on a STEM Optional Practical Training extension. |
| Eligibility | The form is specifically for F-1 students who are pursuing a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field and have been approved for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT. |
| Structure | The I-983 includes multiple sections that require students to detail their employer's information, training objectives, and how they plan to meet their learning goals. |
| Completeness | Submitting an incomplete I-983 can lead to delays or denials in the STEM OPT extension application, so it is crucial for students to provide comprehensive information. |
| Signature Requirement | Both the student and the employer must sign the I-983, indicating their agreement to the training plan and the responsibilities outlined therein. |
| Review Process | The student's Designated School Official (DSO) reviews the I-983 to ensure it meets regulatory standards before recommending the extension in SEVIS. |
| Updates | If there are significant changes to the training plan, the student must update the I-983 and report those changes to their DSO within 10 days. |
| Compliance | Maintaining compliance with the I-983 requirements is essential. Failure to adhere could jeopardize a student’s lawful status in the United States. |
| Governing Law | The I-983 form is governed under the regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), specifically pertaining to Optional Practical Training. |
| Filing Submission | The completed I-983 must be submitted to the student’s DSO and not directly to USCIS as part of the STEM OPT application process. |
Guide to Using ICE I-983
Completing the ICE I-983 form is an essential step in your process to undertake practical training in the U.S. The next steps will guide you through filling out the form efficiently and accurately.
- Begin by downloading the I-983 form from the official ICE website.
- Carefully read through the instructions that accompany the form to understand the requirements.
- Fill out your personal information in the designated sections. This includes your name, country of citizenship, and SEVIS ID number.
- Provide details about your degree program, including the name of your school and your degree field.
- Outline your training plan clearly. Describe the goals and the objectives of your practical training experience.
- Detail how the training will benefit your academic and career goals.
- Include the name and address of your employer, as well as the training location.
- Indicate the start and end dates of your training program.
- Have a designated school official (DSO) review your form and provide necessary signatures.
- Submit the completed form as per your school’s guidelines, ensuring you keep a copy for your records.
After completing these steps, be prepared to monitor the processing of your I-983 form and follow up with your school if necessary. This documentation plays a critical role in ensuring you comply with U.S. immigration regulations during your practical training.
Get Answers on ICE I-983
What is the ICE I-983 form?
The ICE I-983 form, or the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is an essential document designed for international students who are currently on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training (OPT). This form outlines the training a student will receive while working at a U.S. employer and aims to ensure that the training is directly related to the student's field of study. It serves as a mutual agreement between the student and the employer regarding the training and mentorship to be provided.
Who needs to complete the I-983 form?
Any international student on STEM OPT is required to complete the I-983 form. If you are a student whose degree is under a STEM category and you wish to extend your OPT period by 24 months, the submission of a completed I-983 is mandatory. Your employer must also review and sign this form, ensuring that they are committed to providing the necessary training and supervision.
What information is included in the I-983 form?
The I-983 form collects various pieces of information, including:
- Student information: Name, degree, and field of study.
- Employer details: Name, address, and description of the organization.
- Training plan: Specific responsibilities, objectives, and how the training aligns with the student’s academic program.
- Evaluation: A plan for assessing the student’s performance during the training period.
How do I submit the I-983 form?
After completing the I-983 form, you must submit it to your designated school official (DSO) for review. The DSO will assess the form to ensure it meets the necessary requirements. If approved, it may be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of your application for the STEM OPT extension. Remember, the I-983 must accompany your application to maintain your compliance with immigration regulations.
What are the employer's responsibilities related to the I-983 form?
Your employer plays a crucial role in the training plan outlined in the I-983 form. They are responsible for:
- Providing the training as described in the plan.
- Offering oversight and mentorship to ensure skill development in the student’s field.
- Completing periodic evaluations on the student’s progress.
Employers must understand the expectations and regulations tied to this form to support the student’s educational and professional development effectively.
Can the I-983 be amended after submission?
Yes, the I-983 form can be amended if there are changes to the training plan. Such changes may include shifts in the student’s responsibilities or the employer’s structure. When changes occur, it is essential to notify your DSO and submit an updated I-983 for approval. This ensures that your training continues to align with the regulations set forth by the U.S. government.
What happens if I do not submit the I-983 form?
Failure to submit the I-983 form can have serious consequences. Without this documentation, your eligibility for the STEM OPT extension could be jeopardized. This might lead to a loss of legal work authorization and potential issues with your immigration status in the United States. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the form is completed accurately and submitted on time.
Common mistakes
Completing the ICE I-983 form can be a detailed process. One common mistake individuals make is failing to provide clear and concise information about the training program. It is important that all sections are filled out thoroughly. This includes the program objectives and the specific skills that will be developed. When vague or incomplete details are provided, it can lead to misunderstandings or even delays in approval.
Another frequent error involves the identification of the designated school official (DSO). Applicants may not provide the correct contact information or may omit essential details about their DSO. The DSO plays a crucial role in managing the student's training experience and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations. A lack of accurate information here can result in unnecessary complications.
Furthermore, individuals often overlook the section that details the employer's responsibilities. This section requires clarity on how the employer will meet training objectives. Providing insufficient information can hinder the assessment of the training plan's viability. Employers must clearly outline their commitment to providing a meaningful learning experience for the student.
Lastly, many applicants tend to underestimate the significance of the review and signature process. Submitting the form without a proper review can lead to various errors, including typos or omitted information. Furthermore, signatures from both the student and the employer are required. An absence of these signatures can lead to immediate rejection of the application.
Documents used along the form
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 (OPT) in STEM fields. When applying for or maintaining this status, several other forms and documents are often necessary to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and program requirements. Below is a list of essential documents often associated with the I-983 form.
- I-20 Form: This is a certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant student status. It outlines the student's program of study, school details, and eligibility for work authorization.
- Form I-765: This application for employment authorization allows eligible students to apply for work authorization in the United States. Completing this form is crucial for those wanting to work during or after their studies.
- Employer Letter: A letter from the employer detailing the job title, responsibilities, and how the position relates to the student's field of study. This letter provides context and supports the training plan outlined in the I-983.
- Proof of Employment: Documentation that verifies the student’s employment, such as a pay stub or employment agreement. This proof is essential for maintaining the validity of the OPT status.
- Status Confirmation: This document, often in the form of email correspondence or a printed webpage, confirms that the student’s SEVIS record is up to date and in good standing, which is imperative for compliance.
Each of these documents plays a vital role in the successful application and maintenance of the STEM OPT experience. Carefully gathering and managing them ensures that students can focus on their valuable training and future careers in their chosen fields.
Similar forms
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support: This form is used by sponsors to show they can financially support a relative coming to the U.S. Like the I-983, it requires detailed information about the sponsor's income and ability to support, demonstrating a commitment to a specific individual.
- Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification: The I-9 verifies that employees are authorized to work in the U.S. Similar to the I-983, it requires both employee and employer information and needs to be completed within a certain timeframe upon employment.
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: This form is used by permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. Both forms require comprehensive personal information and documentation and necessitate an interview process to assess eligibility.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: This form is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a relationship with a family member seeking to immigrate. Like the I-983, it connects personal and immigration details to a specific individual.
- Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: The DS-160 is an application for individuals seeking a U.S. visa. This form, similar to the I-983, requires extensive personal information and is submitted electronically with a focus on the applicant's purpose in the U.S.
- Form I-590, Registration for Classification as Refugee: Individuals seeking refugee status must complete the I-590. Like the I-983, this document gathers personal information and outlines reasons for seeking asylum or refugee status.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This form is used by individuals in the U.S. to apply for a green card. Both the I-485 and I-983 require detailed personal information and an explanation of the applicant's status and intent.
- Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative: This form lets individuals have a legal representative file documents on their behalf. It's similar to the I-983 in that it requires the identification of parties involved in the immigration process.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, careful attention is crucial. To ensure a smooth application process, here are eight essential dos and don'ts to consider.
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Don't rush through the form; take your time to ensure accuracy.
- Do provide clear and detailed answers to all questions.
- Don't leave any sections blank; if a question doesn’t apply, mark it as N/A.
- Do double-check your information for typos and errors.
- Don't alter the official form format. Use the provided structure and guidelines.
- Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
Following these guidelines will strengthen your application and help you avoid unnecessary delays. Good luck!
Misconceptions
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students,” often comes with a set of misconceptions. Here's a list of common misunderstandings regarding this important form:
- It's only for students on their initial OPT. Many assume the I-983 is only needed for students applying for their first OPT. However, this form is also essential for those extending their STEM OPT period.
- Only employers need to sign the I-983. Some believe that only the employer's signature is necessary. In reality, both the student and the employer must sign the form before it's submitted.
- Filling out the form is a one-time requirement. A common myth is that the I-983 needs to be filled out just once. In fact, any changes in the training plan or employment situation require an updated I-983.
- The I-983 guarantees job placement. There’s a misconception that submitting this form ensures job placement. However, the I-983 is simply a documentation of the training plan and does not influence employment outcomes.
- The form is only for specific STEM degrees. Some people think only certain STEM fields require an I-983. In truth, it applies to a wide range of STEM degrees approved by the Department of Homeland Security.
- Students can submit the I-983 after receiving a job offer. It’s a mistake to think the form can be filed after securing employment. The I-983 must be submitted when applying for the STEM OPT extension.
- Only full-time jobs can qualify for the I-983. There is a belief that only full-time positions are acceptable. In reality, part-time jobs are also permissible, as long as they meet specific requirements outlined by the USCIS.
Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure compliance with OPT regulations and make the process smoother for all students involved.
Key takeaways
When working with the ICE I-983 form, here are some essential points to keep in mind:
- The I-983 form is crucial for international students on F-1 visas applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- Ensure you fill out the form accurately, as it outlines your proposed training program and its relationship to your academic degree.
- Both the student and their designated school official (DSO) must sign the form, confirming that it meets immigration regulations.
- Detail the specific skills you will learn during your training. This information is vital for the supporting documentation.
- The training must be directly related to your field of study. Clearly articulate this connection in your submission.
- Review the training plan with your employer before submitting. Their input can be crucial in showcasing your learning objectives.
- Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This documentation will be essential for any future applications or inquiries.
- Submit the I-983 form to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) when requested, to maintain compliance.
- Be aware of the deadlines associated with OPT applications. These can impact your eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Seek guidance from your university's international student office if you have any questions. They can provide significant valuable assistance.
Properly completing the I-983 form can positively influence your training experience, ensuring you gain practical skills that complement your education.