Download ICE I-983 Template

The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for international students on STEM OPT. Here are some key takeaways to consider when filling it out and using it:

• Understand the Purpose: The I-983 form outlines your training plan. It helps ensure that your employment is directly related to your field of study and that it provides valuable training opportunities.
• Collaborate with Your Employer: Engage in discussions with your employer to accurately complete the form. Their input is crucial, as they will provide details about the training and mentorship you will receive.
• Be Specific: Provide detailed information about your training goals, objectives, and how they align with your academic background. Vague descriptions can lead to delays in approval.
• Regular Updates: If there are any changes to your training plan or employment situation, update the I-983 form promptly. This ensures compliance with the STEM OPT requirements.
• Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your designated school official (DSO) for assistance. They can provide valuable insights and help ensure that your form meets all necessary requirements.

The ICE I-983 form is an essential document for students on STEM OPT, outlining their training plans. However, it is often accompanied by other important forms and documents that help ensure compliance with immigration regulations and provide necessary information to the U.S. government. Below is a list of five commonly used forms and documents alongside the I-983.

• Form I-765: This is the application for employment authorization. Students use it to request permission to work in the U.S. while on OPT or STEM OPT. It must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Form I-20: Issued by the Designated School Official (DSO), this document verifies a student's enrollment in a U.S. educational institution. It must be updated to reflect any changes in the student's program or status, especially when applying for STEM OPT.
• Employer's Offer Letter: This letter outlines the job offer from the employer, including details such as job title, responsibilities, and start date. It serves as evidence of employment and is often required for the STEM OPT application process.
• ATV Bill of Sale: For those dealing with all-terrain vehicles, it's crucial to complete the nytemplates.com/blank-atv-bill-of-sale-template/ to document the ownership transfer effectively.
• Training Plan Addendum: This document supplements the I-983 form by providing additional details about the training program. It can include specific goals, evaluation methods, and how the training aligns with the student's academic background.
• Evaluation Forms: These forms are used to assess the student's progress during their training. They are typically submitted at the 12-month mark and at the end of the training period, ensuring that the student is meeting the objectives outlined in the I-983.

Having these documents ready and properly completed is crucial for a smooth application process. They not only support the I-983 but also help maintain compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Always ensure that each document is accurate and up-to-date to avoid potential issues with your OPT status.

How to Write ICE I-983

Filling out the ICE I-983 form is an important step in your process. Completing this form accurately ensures that you provide the necessary information for your application. Follow these steps carefully to ensure everything is filled out correctly.

1. Begin by downloading the ICE I-983 form from the official website.
2. Read the instructions provided with the form thoroughly to understand each section.
3. Start with Section 1: Student Information. Fill in your name, SEVIS ID, and other personal details.
4. Move to Section 2: Student’s Role. Indicate your degree level and the name of your academic institution.
5. In Section 3: Employer Information, provide the name and address of your employer.
6. Proceed to Section 4: Training Plan. Describe the training objectives and how they relate to your field of study.
7. Complete Section 5: Evaluation of Student Progress. Specify how progress will be evaluated throughout the training period.
8. In Section 6: Additional Information, provide any other relevant details that may be necessary.
9. Review all sections for accuracy and completeness. Make sure there are no errors.
10. Sign and date the form at the designated areas.
11. Submit the completed form as instructed, either electronically or by mail, depending on the requirements.

After completing the form, you will need to gather any additional documents required for your application. Ensure you keep copies of everything submitted for your records. This will help you track your progress and respond to any inquiries that may arise.

The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is an essential document for international students seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States. However, several misconceptions surround this form that can lead to confusion and potential issues. Here are five common misconceptions:

• Misconception 1: The I-983 form is optional for STEM OPT students.

This is incorrect. The I-983 form is a mandatory requirement for students applying for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Failing to submit this form can result in denial of the application.

• Misconception 2: The employer does not need to be involved in the I-983 form completion.

In reality, the employer plays a crucial role in the completion of the I-983. The form requires input from both the student and the employer, including details about the training plan and how it relates to the student’s degree.

• Misconception 3: Once submitted, the I-983 form cannot be changed.

This is misleading. If there are significant changes in the training plan or the employer's information, students must update the I-983 and submit the revised version to their Designated School Official (DSO) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Misconception 4: The I-983 form only needs to be submitted once.

This is not true. While the form is submitted with the initial STEM OPT application, it must also be updated and resubmitted whenever there are changes to the training plan or employment situation.

• Misconception 5: The I-983 form guarantees approval of the STEM OPT extension.

Submitting the I-983 form does not guarantee that the STEM OPT extension will be approved. The application is subject to review by USCIS, and all eligibility criteria must be met for approval.

The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is similar to the Form I-20. The Form I-20 is issued by schools to international students to confirm their enrollment and eligibility for student status. Both documents serve as official records that outline the purpose of a student's stay in the U.S. and ensure compliance with immigration regulations. While the I-20 focuses on academic enrollment, the I-983 emphasizes the practical training component of a student's education.

The Optional Practical Training (OPT) application, Form I-765, is another document akin to the I-983. The I-765 is used to apply for work authorization in the U.S. for students on F-1 visas. Like the I-983, it is part of the process that allows students to gain practical experience related to their field of study. Both forms require detailed information about the student's educational background and the relevance of the training or employment to their degree.

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The Form DS-2019, which is used for J-1 visa holders, shares similarities with the I-983. The DS-2019 outlines the exchange visitor's program details and is necessary for obtaining a J-1 visa. Both forms detail the purpose of the individual's stay in the U.S. and require the approval of a designated school official or program sponsor, ensuring that the training aligns with the educational objectives of the visa holder.

The Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is also comparable to the I-983. The I-9 is used by employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired in the U.S. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan, the I-9 ensures that the individual is legally allowed to work. Both documents play crucial roles in maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is similar in that it documents the entry and exit of foreign nationals in the U.S. The I-94 records the duration of stay and the visa status of the individual. While the I-983 outlines the specifics of a training program, the I-94 confirms the legal status of the student during their stay, ensuring they remain compliant with the terms of their visa.

The Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, can also be compared to the I-983. The G-28 is used when an attorney or accredited representative is acting on behalf of an individual in immigration matters. Both documents require signatures and serve to establish a formal relationship in the context of immigration processes, although the G-28 is more about representation than training.

The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record is another document that parallels the I-983. SEVIS tracks information about international students and exchange visitors. While the I-983 focuses on the training plan, the SEVIS record provides a broader overview of the student's status and compliance with visa regulations. Both are essential for maintaining the legal status of the student in the U.S.

The Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, is similar to the I-983 in that it is used by nonimmigrants to request a change in their status or an extension of their stay. While the I-983 details a specific training plan, the I-539 is about maintaining lawful status in the U.S. Both forms require careful documentation and adherence to immigration rules.

Lastly, the Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is comparable to the I-983. The I-131 is used to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole. Both forms are essential for nonimmigrants who wish to travel outside the U.S. while maintaining their status. The I-983 focuses on the training aspect, while the I-131 addresses travel needs, yet both are critical for ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.