Definition and Purpose of Form I-983
Form I-983, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a critical document for F-1 international students seeking a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This form outlines the training plan that the student will undertake with their employer, ensuring that the training aligns with their academic background and career goals.
The primary purpose of Form I-983 is to establish a formal agreement between the student and the employer regarding the training objectives, supervision, and evaluation methods. This document is essential for demonstrating that the training will enhance the student’s skills without displacing U.S. workers.
How to Use Form I-983
Using Form I-983 involves several key steps that both the student and employer must follow:
- Collaboration: The student and employer should work together to complete the form, ensuring that all sections accurately reflect the training program.
- Submission: Once completed, the form must be submitted to the student’s Designated School Official (DSO) for review and recommendation.
- Ongoing Updates: The I-983 form requires updates for any significant changes in the training plan, such as a change in employer or job responsibilities.
This collaborative approach ensures that both parties are aligned on the training objectives and compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
Obtaining Form I-983
Form I-983 can be easily obtained through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. It is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing students and employers to fill it out electronically or by hand. Here are the steps to obtain the form:
- Visit the USCIS website: Navigate to the official USCIS page dedicated to the I-983 form.
- Download the form: Click on the link to download the I-983 form in PDF format.
- Review instructions: Ensure to read the accompanying instructions for guidance on how to complete the form accurately.
Filling Out Form I-983
Filling out Form I-983 requires careful attention to detail. The form consists of several sections, each requiring specific information:
- Student Information: This section includes the student’s personal details, such as name, SEVIS ID, and degree information.
- Employer Information: Employers must provide their company name, address, and contact information, along with the supervisor's details.
- Training Plan: This section outlines the training goals, skills to be developed, and how the training relates to the student’s degree.
- Evaluation Methods: Employers must describe how they will evaluate the student’s progress and the methods used for supervision.
Each section must be completed thoroughly to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and to facilitate the approval of the STEM OPT extension.
Key Elements of Form I-983
Understanding the key elements of Form I-983 is essential for both students and employers. The form includes:
- Training Objectives: Clearly defined goals that the student aims to achieve during their training period.
- Skills Development: A description of the specific skills the student will acquire, ensuring alignment with their academic background.
- Supervision Details: Information about who will supervise the student and how often evaluations will occur.
- Compliance Assurance: A statement confirming that the training will not displace U.S. workers and that the student will receive comparable pay and duties.
Legal Use of Form I-983
Form I-983 serves as a legal agreement between the student and employer, and its proper use is crucial for maintaining the student’s immigration status. The form must be submitted to the DSO, who will review it for compliance with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations. Key legal aspects include:
- Documentation: The form must be accurately completed and submitted in a timely manner to avoid jeopardizing the student’s OPT status.
- Compliance with Regulations: Both the student and employer must adhere to the terms outlined in the form, including conducting evaluations and maintaining accurate records.
- Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to follow the terms of the I-983 can lead to serious implications, including the loss of OPT status.
Examples of Using Form I-983
Real-world scenarios can help illustrate the application of Form I-983:
- Example One: A student in computer science secures a position with a tech company. The I-983 form outlines how the training will enhance their programming skills and contribute to ongoing projects.
- Example Two: An engineering student works with a manufacturing firm. The training plan specifies hands-on experience with machinery, ensuring the student gains practical skills relevant to their degree.
These examples highlight how the I-983 form can be tailored to specific training situations, ensuring compliance and maximizing the learning experience.
Filing Deadlines and Important Dates
Adhering to deadlines is crucial when working with Form I-983. Key dates include:
- Submission Deadline: The I-983 must be submitted to the DSO before applying for the STEM OPT extension.
- Evaluation Deadlines: Students are required to submit self-evaluations at the 12-month mark and at the end of the training period.
- Reporting Changes: Any significant changes to the training plan must be reported immediately to the DSO.
Staying informed about these deadlines ensures that students maintain their eligibility for the STEM OPT extension.
