STEM OPT Extension Mentoring and Training Plan

DHS is implementing this information collection to better ensure that F-1 students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM degrees) wishing to extend their optional practical training (OPT) can do so in a manner that enhances the academic benefit of the STEM OPT extension. The employer who chooses to provide a STEM OPT opportunity to a student will, as a condition of voluntary participation in the program, work with the student to design a customized training plan. Such training plans will require specific goals for the training, as well as a description of how those goals will be achieved. The STEM OPT Extension Mentoring and Training Plan (Form I-983) will ensure that STEM OPT students receive a more comprehensive understanding of their selected course of study and attain better functionality within that field. The information collected on the Form I-983 serves as a planning document for STEM OPT students, the SEVP-certified school, and the employer. The STEM Mentoring and Training Plan also serves as an evidentiary document for SEVP, by tracking the STEM OPT student's progress, setting forth the terms and conditions of the practical training, and documenting the obligations of the three parties that are involved – the F-1 student, the SEVP-certified school, and the employer. .

The latest form for STEM OPT Extension Mentoring and Training Plan expires 2021-07-31 and can be found here.