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Co-Op FAQ - Questions about International Student Issues
Q: How do I get authorization to work off-campus in the first year?
A: Off-campus work authorization must be approved by the University. UNVA offers employment authorization only for those enrolled in a graduate level program and participating in the Graduate Co-Op Program. Students must first have a job offer directly related to their field of study. They must visit the Career Center and International Students Office and follow the procedures required to obtain work authorization.
Q: Do I have to have a social security number?
A: Having a social security number (SSN) is required in order to file taxes as an employee and report wages as an employer in the US. However, it is not required in the job interview process. After an offer of employment has been given to the student and employment approved. Students without a SSN must take these documents to the Social Security Administration and apply for a SSN. The card typically arrives in the mail after two weeks.
Q: What is Curricular Practical Training?
A: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that a school may authorize to its international (F-1) students if the employment meets a set of criteria. It may only be authorized for jobs that relate directly to the program of study and is intended to be an extension of the learning experience. This work authorization is intended for students who are actively pursuing the completion of their degree.
Q: What is Optional Practical Training?
A: Optional Practical Training (OPT) is similar to CPT except it is for students who have already completed their degree in the US and would like to stay longer in order to gain more practical work experience. The request for this work authorization is made
through the international student advisor but must be approved by USCIS.
Q: Am I allowed to engage in both CPT and OPT?
A: Not at the same time. Many students engage in CPT while completing their program and apply for OPT after completing their degree. Only students who have worked less than 12 months in full time CPT are eligible for OPT approval.
Q: If I choose to work in CPT for the entire length of time I am in the Master's program, will I be allowed to do so (even if my CPT lasts for more than one year)?
A: Yes. CPT is allowed as long as the student is actively pursuing the completion of their degree, even if it exceeds 12 months. However, after exceeding 12 months, the right to OPT approval is forfeited.
Q: Can I take online courses?
A: Yes, UNVA offers online courses that are available to all students. According to the regulations governing the F-1 program, international students may not have more than one online course per term. UNVA online courses are subject to the same attendance and reporting policies as our on site courses.
Q: Can I take a break during summer quarter to return to my country then return back to school for fall quarter?
A: You must attend school full time for at least 3 consecutive quarters (9 months) before being approved for a vacation. During the vacation period, the student may travel home while continuing to maintain their F-1 visa. However, they must return in time to register and attend the following term. Vacations may be taken during any term as long as the above requirement is met.
Q: My visa duration is valid for only 2 years. What are the chances of getting my Visa extended after the due period?
A: Firstly, F-1/2 visas are primarily used to enter the US. If your visa has expired but your program has not been completed yet, you may continue to stay in the US and study as long as your I-20 is valid. If you decide to leave the country, you will need to have your visa extended before attempting to come back into the US. The chances of having your visa extended are good, as long as proper documentation is presented. UNVA recommends that you bring a letter of good standing, up to date transcript, and valid I-20 to the interview. If you can successfully demonstrate your intention on returning to the US for the purpose of completing your program, the officer will most like approve the extension. However, like all matters with immigration, nothing is guaranteed.
Q: I am already in the US on a B-1 visa. Can I change to F-1?
A: Yes, you will first need to be accepted into the University and receive your acceptance letter and I-20. These are the supporting documents needed to apply for a change of status. Other documents are needed as well. Please consult your international student advisor for full details. Before a B-1/2 may begin studying, the F-1 visa just first be approved.
Q: Can my spouse or children accompany me to the US ?
A: Yes, your spouse and children may accompany you to the US. They are considered your dependents and will not be able to work or go to post secondary education. You must provide financial support documentation and proof of relationship in order to have the visas approved for your dependents.
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