Co-Op FAQ
Q: What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
A: CPT is a type of work authorization that a school may authorize to its international (F-1) students if the employment meets a set criteria. It may only be authorized for jobs that directly relate 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 (OPT)?
A: A: OPT is similar to CPT except that it is for students who have already completed their degree in the U.S. and would like to stay longer in order to gain more practical work experience. For more information please visit www.uva.edu/optstudent.htm.
Q: Am I allowed to work on both CPT and OPT?
A: Not at the same time, but if you meet the elibility requirements for OPT you can work on it after you complete your CPT.
Q: If I choose to work on CPT for the entire length of my degree program will I be allowed to do so (even if my CPT lasts 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, students interested in OPT should be mindful that they do not exceed the maximum time allowed on CPT to still remain eligible for OPT.
Q: What do I need submit in order to get CPT authorization?
A: Please download the CPT Application Form because the checklist of the documents you need to submit is included there. That, plus all CPT forms, can be found at www.unva.edu/forms.htm.
Q: Do I have to have a Social Security Number (SSN)?
A: Having an SSN is required in order to file taxes as an employee in the U.S. However, it is not required in the job interview process. After an offer of employment has been given to the student and CPT authorization approved they can then apply for an SSN at a Social Security Administration Office. The card usually arrives in the mail after 2 weeks. For more information please visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10181.html.
Q: Will UNVA find an internship for me?
A: UNVA will sponsor events such as job fairs and will post potential job opportunities. However, part of the Co-op program is learning to compete in a competitive work environment and it is the student's responsibility to secure a job.
Q. Can you help me find my internship/job before I arrive in the U.S.?
A: Due to the uncertainty of someone applying for a job from overseas it is unlikely that a student will have a job before their arrival in the U.S.
Q: How many hours per week will I work?
A: This is completely up to you and your employer. In American business, a full time employee is someone who works 40 hours per week. However, according to USCIS regulations, an international student working more than 20 hours per week is considered full time for regulatory purposes. If you will be working less than 20 hours per week that is considered part time employment.
Q: What if I can't find a job?
A: If all options for finding employment have been used and you are still unable to find a job, please contact the UNVA Career Services office for assistance.
Q: Will I have to pay taxes?
A: All employees are required to pay taxes on their earnings, which usually include state and federal taxes and Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA). However, under Section 3121(b)(19), services of certain non-resident aliens, an individual holding an F, J, M or Q visa are qualified for the social security tax exemption. Students can get Social Security and Medicare taxes reimbursed by the U.S. government after filing taxes at the end of the year.
Q: Is there a way for me to work before actually starting my program of study in order to save more money and add it to my current savings?
A: Not if you are an international student. The type of work authorization UNVA can issue is called Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and it must be concurrent with an active academic program. Those students that do not require CPT may work if they are legally allowed to do so.
Q: Can I get a job in a different city/state than the UNVA campus?
A: UNVA does not restrict where a student can work. However, we strictly enforce our attendance policy. Students who are not meeting their academic obligations will have their work authorization terminated or withheld.
Q: What employment options are available after completion of my academic program and graduation?
A: International students who wish to stay in the U.S. to gain further work experience after completing their program may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). This allows students to stay for an additional 12 months. During this period, some students find an opportunity to change their visa status or prepare for their next step. For more information please visit www.uva.edu/optstudent.htm.
Q: Can I take online courses?
A: Yes, UNVA offers online classes that are available to all students. According to the regulations governing the F1 visa, 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 onsite courses.
Q: Can I take a quarter break and then return to school the following quarter?
A: Students must attend school full time for at least 3 consecutive quarters before being approved for a vacation. During the vacation period the student may travel home while continuing to maintain their F1 status. However, they must return in time to register and attend the following term. If a student would like to work on CPT during their break they will be allowed to do so as long as they have been approved for a vacation and are registered in ORTN500 or ORTN590, depending on which course they are required to take. For more information about applying for a vacation please visit http://www.unva.edu/f1studenttravel.htm.
Q: My visa duration is valid for only 2 years. What are the chances of getting my visa extended after the visa expiration date?
A: F1 visas are primarily used to enter the U.S. If your visa has expired but your program has not yet been completed, you may continue to stay in the U.S. and study as long as you have a valid I-20. If you decide to leave the country you will need to have your visa extended before attempting to re-enter the U.S. Please contact the International Students Office for more information about extending your visa.
Q: I am already in the U.S. on a B1 visa. Can I change to F1?
A: Yes. You will first need to be accepted into UNVA and receive your acceptance letter and I-20. Please contact the International Students Office for full details on the process for changing your status.
Q: Can my spouse or children accompany me to the U.S.?
A: Yes, your spouse and children may accompany you to the U.S. They are considered your dependants 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 these visas approved for your dependants.
Q: I currently have CPT with one employer but I want to switch to a new employer. What do I do?
A: You will need to submit a CPT Cancellation Form for your current employer, and submit a CPT Request Form and job offer letter for the new employer. The process normally takes 5 business days.
Q: What courses do I need to register for if I want CPT?
A: First quarter: Full Time CPT- ORTN500 plus one academic class. Part Time CPT- ORTN500 plus two academic classes.
All CPT students after the first quarter: ORTN590 (if you have passed ORTN500) and two academic classes. If you have not passed ORTN500 you will need to re-take it before enrolling in ORTN590.
Q: I am not working anymore. Do I need to let UNVA know?
A: Yes! If you hold a valid CPT work authorization you will be bound by the CPT program rules, whether you are working or not. You need to submit a CPT Cancellation Form as soon as you know when your last day of work will be or if you have already stopped working. Lack of employment does not automatically cancel the CPT. If you have a valid CPT authorization and are not enrolled in ORTN590 when you submit your cancellation form, you may be required to enroll in that course before your cancellation is processed. If you are not working and do not have a valid CPT authorization you do not need to register for ORTN590.
Q: What is the difference between Full Time and Part Time CPT?
A: Full Time CPT is more than 20 hours of work per week. Part Time CPT is 20 hours of work or less per week. Full Time CPT requires payment of a onetime, non-refundable administrative fee of $1900. There is no administrative fee for Part Time CPT.
Q: Can I apply for CPT before I receive a job offer?
A: No. CPT provides authorization for employment that is directly related to a student's program of study so a job offer is required before starting the CPT application process.
Q: I want to extend my CPT. What do I need to do?
A: You will need to submit a reference letter and new CPT Application form with the option for extension checked off at the top.