The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) updated the Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students,” to remove language requiring wet signatures. Students and employers may continue to physically sign the Form I-983 or input their own electronic signature. SEVP accepts electronic signatures in the following formats:

• Electronic signatures using software programs or applications. Students and employers may sign all signature fields on the Form I-983 using electronic signatures produced with software programs or applications.
• Electronically reproduced copies of a signature. Students and employers may sign all signature fields on the Form I-983 using digitally reproduced copies of a signature. A digitally reproduced copy may be a scanned image of a physical signature.
  • Additionally, students may send an electronic version of their completed or updated Form I-983 to their designated school official (DSO) via email or through a secure platform that students can access with individual account credentials. This may include a school portal or other secure site.

DSOs are encouraged to upload the Form I-983 when updating the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) with an event that requires a new or revised Form I-983, but this is optional. For instructions on uploading the Form I-983, see the F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) Extension page in the SEVIS Help Hub.

Additional Resources

For more information about the Form I-983, visit these resources in the STEM OPT Hub on Study in the States:

• Form I-983 Overview
• Students and the Form I-983
• DSOs and the Form I-983