What Is the I-983 Training Plan for STEM OPT?
Quick Answer
The I-983 Training Plan is a required document for STEM OPT that outlines the training objectives, employer supervision, and learning goals agreed upon between the student and employer. It must be completed and signed by both parties before a DSO can recommend the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS.
Key Takeaway
Complete the I-983 with your employer before your DSO can recommend STEM OPT. The plan must show a genuine training component—not just regular employment—and must be updated if your employer, role, or training objectives change.
Purpose of the I-983 Training Plan
The Form I-983, officially titled 'Training Plan for STEM OPT Students,' is a document that establishes the training framework for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. USCIS and SEVP require this form to ensure that the STEM OPT extension serves its intended purpose as a training program, not merely regular employment. The plan must demonstrate that the employer will provide structured training related to the student's STEM degree field.
The I-983 is a collaborative document completed by both the student and the employer. It describes the student's STEM degree, the employer's training goals, how the training relates to the student's field of study, and the methods the employer will use to supervise and measure progress. Without a completed I-983, your DSO cannot recommend the STEM OPT extension in SEVIS.
This form replaced the previous employer attestation requirement and provides more detailed oversight of STEM OPT training. SEVP uses I-983 data to monitor compliance with STEM OPT regulations and may conduct site visits to verify that the training described in the plan is actually being provided.
What the I-983 Covers
The I-983 is divided into several sections covering student information, employer information, and the training plan details. The student section includes your name, SEVIS number, degree information, and the employer's E-Verify company number. The employer section includes the company name, address, EIN, and the supervisor's contact information.
The training plan section is the most substantive part. It requires a description of the student's role and how it relates to their STEM degree, specific training goals and objectives, the knowledge and skills to be gained, how the employer will supervise and assess progress, and the estimated hours per week. The plan must show how the training goes beyond standard employment duties to provide educational value.
- Student's STEM degree program and field of study
- Employer's E-Verify company ID number (required for STEM OPT)
- Detailed description of training goals and learning objectives
- How the role directly relates to the student's STEM degree
- Methods for employer supervision and performance evaluation
- Estimated hours per week (must be at least 20 hours)
The employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to participate in STEM OPT. The E-Verify company ID number must be included on the I-983. If the employer is not E-Verified, they cannot host STEM OPT students.
When to Update the I-983
The I-983 is not a one-time filing. You must submit a new or updated I-983 in several circumstances: if you change employers, if your training objectives change significantly, if you are promoted or change roles, or at the 12-month midpoint of your STEM OPT extension for a progress evaluation. Your DSO will require the updated form to maintain your SEVIS record.
The 12-month evaluation is a formal requirement. At the midpoint of your 24-month STEM OPT extension, both you and your employer must complete a self-evaluation section on the I-983 describing the progress made toward the training goals and any modifications needed for the remaining 12 months. Failure to submit the midpoint evaluation can result in termination of your STEM OPT.
Tips for Completing the I-983
Work closely with your employer to craft training objectives that are specific, measurable, and clearly connected to your STEM degree field. Avoid vague language like 'general software development'—instead, describe specific technologies, methodologies, or projects you will learn. For example, 'Develop proficiency in machine learning model deployment using TensorFlow and AWS SageMaker, applying principles from the student's M.S. in Computer Science program.'
Many employers, especially smaller companies, may be unfamiliar with the I-983. Be prepared to explain the purpose of the form and provide guidance on what is expected. Your university's international student office often has sample I-983 forms, templates, and guides that can help both you and your employer complete the plan accurately and efficiently.