Form I-983. Training Plan for STEM OPT Students

Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is a form used by employers to establish a training plan for students on F-1 visas who are seeking to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) for an additional 24 months. The form is officially known as "Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students."

The main purpose of this form is to ensure that the training provided to STEM OPT students is directly related to their field of study and provides them with practical experience that complements their academic training. The form consists of several parts, including identifying information about the employer and student, a description of the training program, and a self-evaluation of the training program.

The parties involved in this form are the employer and the STEM OPT student. When completing the form, it is important to consider the specific goals and objectives of the training program, as well as the specific skills and knowledge that the student is expected to gain from the program. The data required when filling the form includes the employer's identifying information, the student's educational background, and a detailed description of the training program.

When completing Form I-983, it is important to attach any supporting documentation that may be necessary to support the training plan, such as job descriptions, training manuals, or other relevant documents.

An example of a practical use case for Form I-983 is when an employer hires a STEM OPT student to work on a research project related to the student's field of study. In this case, the employer would use Form I-983 to establish a training plan that outlines the specific skills and knowledge that the student will gain from the project, as well as the specific goals and objectives of the training program.

Strengths of this form include its ability to ensure that STEM OPT students receive practical training that is directly related to their field of study. Weaknesses may include the potential for confusion or errors when completing the form, as well as the potential for delays in processing the extension of the student's OPT. Opportunities related to this form may include the ability to provide STEM OPT students with valuable work experience that can help them transition into the workforce after graduation, while threats may include the potential for penalties or fines for incorrect or incomplete reporting.

Related forms include Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. These forms may be used in conjunction with Form I-983 to establish a STEM OPT program.

To fill out and submit Form I-983, employers must provide accurate information about the training program, as well as any supporting documentation that may be necessary to support the training plan. The form should be submitted to the student's Designated School Official (DSO) for review and approval. Once approved, the form should be stored for future reference in case of any future audits or disputes.