University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Co-op Program Application Package

Thank you for your interest in the University of Northern Virginia Co-op Program. Included in this application package are the following forms/documents: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Elements of Co-op Employment UNVA Graduate Co-op Program Overview Curricular Practical Training Application Internship/Cooperative Education Consent and Release Form Curricular Practical Training Cancellation Form Performance Evaluation

If you are seeking information about our Co-op program, please read Elements of Co-op Employment. If you have any questions please send an email to cpt@unva.edu.

Regards, UNVA Career Services

cpt@unva.edu

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Elements of CPT Employment Length: Employment may be authorized for as long as the student is enrolled and pursuing the completion of their graduate degree, although it will be issued for anywhere between 3-12 months at a time. However, for International students, exceeding 12 months of Full Time CPT or 24 months Part Time CPT results in ineligibility for OPT. Obtaining Employment: As part of the experience, each student is responsible for searching for prospective employers, going through the interview process, and satisfactorily completing the duties of their job. UNVA will guide students through the entire experience through advising, processing of documents and, when available, posting of local job openings. Once a job has been secured by the student, a complete application for CPT authorization must be submitted to the Career Services office. Maintenance of Employment: In order for the employment to be approved for every quadmester, students must maintain good standing with UNVA. This includes enrolling in courses and abiding by UNVA policies. Students must also complete assignments and forms as given by their professors. This is to ensure that students are benefiting from the program and that the academic value of the program is preserved. Types of Employment Applicable to the Program: UNVA will only approve employment that is determined to be directly related to the students program of study. This is a requirement of the regulations guiding CPT, and a UNVA requirement as well. Location of Employment: Students may work at any site that does not interfere with their academic program. All students are subject to UNVAs attendance policies at all times. Probable Wages: Federal law requires that people working in the U.S. receive a minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. However, because of the degree requirements to enter the Co-op program, students are often paid more than the minimum wage. Those students that continually improve their employee repertoires and are vigorous in the employment process often earn above average wages and salaries.

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Elements of Co-op/CPT- Frequently Asked Questions 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: 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 http://www.unva.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 http://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 students 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.
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Q: What if I cant 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 http://www.unva.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

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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 I20. 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 students 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.

cpt@unva.edu

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University of Northern Virginia 7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

UNVA Graduate Co-op Program Overview General Information: The UNVA Graduate Co-op Program (or simply Co-op) integrates firsthand work experience with graduate level academic theory. All Administrative work for this program is handled by UNVAs Careers Services office. Students holding the F-1 visa require Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization before employment can begin. CPT is authorized under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(i). This program offers an excellent opportunity for students to encounter an authentic American work environment while simultaneously completing their Master or Doctorate degree at UNVA. Participation in valid employment that is relevant to the students degree program is a required aspect of Co-op. Additionally, students will develop confidence in their abilities and begin their careers earlier. Student Eligibility for Co-op a. Unconditionally accepted as a Master or Doctorate student at UNVA b. Accepted in the UNVA Graduate Co-op Program c. Enrolled in a full course load (see UNVA Catalog) d. In good academic standing (see UNVA Catalog) e. Cleared of financial obligations to UNVA Co-op Rules and Policies a. Job primary duties must be directly related to the students program of study. b. Completing your degree is the number one priority. Working will never be an acceptable excuse to forego academic success and you must maintain a cumulative GPA (CGPA) of 3.0. c. Students who fail to abide by University policies or fall out of eligibility of Co-op will be withdrawn from Co-op and their employers will be notified promptly. d. All student taxes and salary withholdings are the responsibility of the student. e. Students must remain aware of changes and updates to policies and procedures within the Career Services office and UNVA. f. New Co-op students must register for ORTN500 in their first quadmester and ORTN590 for all subsequent quadmesters when they hold a valid CPT authorization. g. If an Unsatisfactory grade is received in ORTN500 the student will need to retake that course to remain eligible for CPT, and before progressing to ORTN590. h. Co-op students must remit a one-time non-refundable CPT fee in the amount of $1900. This fee is waived for part-time Co-op students. Students that applied for Full Time CPT during or after Fall 2010 term are eligible for a $1000 scholarship credit ($250 per term for up to 4 terms) from their second quadmester on Full Time CPT providing they pass ORTN500 and maintain a 3.0 CGPA. i. Students are responsible for seeking and procuring their own employment. j. Interpretation of Co-op rules are at the discretion of the Director of Career Services.
Student Printed Name Student Signature Date

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CPT Processing and Maintenance a. All CPT related forms have a 5 business day processing period. b. A fully completed CPT Request Form must be submitted with required documentation in order to begin processing. c. Employment may not begin until the CPT request is approved. d. CPT is valid for a maximum of one year. Students must submit their CPT Extension Forms at least three (3) weeks before the CPT ends. Extensions will not be accepted after the CPT has already ended and a new CPT Request Form must be submitted (along with documentation). e. If the CPT start or end date is in or close to a registration period, the student may be required to register for the next term before an extension or new CPT is approved. f. It is the students responsibility to notify UNVA if they are no longer employed. A CPT Cancellation Form must be submitted within ten (10) days of separation. UNVA will not backdate the CPT end date more than ten (10) days from the day of form submittal. g. UNVA reserves the right to cancel CPT without notice at the discretion of the Director of Career Services. h. Career Services will contact you at your UNVA student email address once your CPT or cancellation has been approved and completed. CPT Guidelines a. USCIS defines part-time CPT as twenty (20) hours per week or less. Anything more would be considered full-time. b. Students who complete one year or more full-time CPT are no longer eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). c. Part-time CPT is counted at half the rate of full-time CPT. d. CPT can be authorized as long as the student is eligible for Co-op. e. CPT can only start after the student has registered. f. CPT can be extended as far as the end of their current program. g. Students enrolled in English language training are not eligible for CPT. h. Students are responsible for tracking and knowing their own CPT information such as usage, start dates, and end dates. Requirements for Recognition for Completion of Co-op a. Signed Statement of Understanding for Co-op b. Satisfactory grade in ORTN500 c. Satisfactory grade in ORTN590 for at least three (3) quadmesters d. Completion of all assignments under Co-op e. Completed and Approved UNVA Graduate Co-op Completion Form

I have read the aforementioned information and agree to the conditions of the UNVA Graduate Co-op Program. In order to remain responsive to changing conditions and requirements, UNVA could, from time to time, make changes and updates to Co-op policies and procedures. UNVA does not guarantee jobs to anyone nor is it obligated to.
Student Printed Name Student Signature Date

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Curricular Practical Training Request Checklist

Notice to Students: CPT request forms must be completed and attached with supporting documents in order to be processed. Allow at least five (5) business days from the date of submittal before inquiring on the status of the application. The Career Services office will contact students once the request has been approved or denied. CPT authorizations may be picked up during normal operating hours, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. 6 p.m. Prior to requesting CPT you have: Read and understood the Co-op Overview Read and understood Elements of CPT Employment A valid job offer, as described below Organized all necessary documents for a CPT request CPT Request Form Supporting Documents New Co-op Student
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [

Returning Co-op Student

] signed Statement of Understanding for Co-op [ ] CPT Cancellation Form (if applicable) ] copies of passport and F1 visa [ ] Proof of ORTN590 registration ] copy of most recent I-20 [ ] completed and signed CPT Application Form ] proof of ORTN500 registration [ ] job offer letter/reference letter for extension ] completed and signed CPT Application Form [ ] completed Co-op Student Evaluation Form ] job offer letter for last position ] proof of CPT Administrative Fee payment (if full-time) ] signed Internship and Cooperative Program Consent and Release Form

Job Offer/Reference Letter Requirements

[ [ [ [ [
1

] on company letterhead ] name and title of employer ] employer address (no PO Box) ] employer phone number ] employee start date

[ [ [ [ [

] students position title 1 ] description of duties 2 ] anticipated hours worked per week ] salary (for statistical purposes) ] signature of employer

USCIS regulations state that any practical training must be directly related to the students program of study.
2

USCIS regulations state that part-time CPT is twenty (20) hours or less. UNVA will consider full-time as employment which lasts more than twenty (20) hours per week. Conversion to a full-time CPT authorization requires the remittance of the Co-op Administrative Fee.

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Curricular Practical Training Application Form

Note to Students: This form must be submitted at least seven (7) days before the expected start date of CPT. If extending the CPT, this form must be submitted three (3) weeks prior to the CPT end date. As per USCIS regulations, the request must be approved before the student may begin working.

Choose one:

[ ] new CPT request

[ ] CPT extension:

CPT expiration date

Student Information
Last Name First Name M.I.

N
UNVA Student ID SEVIS Number UNVA email address

Phone: (

Degree:

Major/Conc.:

Employment Information
Start Date (mm/dd/yyyy) End Date (mm/dd/yyyy) If Applicable

[ ] part-time

select one

[ ] full-time

Company Name:
Company Street Address

City

State

ZIP Code

Company Contact Name:

Phone Number:

Email:

Explain in the space below how this job directly relates to your program of study (write legibly):

per [ ] year

[ ] hour

[ ] other: please explain

Certifications
By signing below, I attest that the above information is true and correct. I have read and understand the Co-op Overview and all the information contained within this request form.
Student Signature Date

By signing below, I attest that I have verified the information provided within this form to the best of my ability and I recommended that the request for CPT be: [ ] approved [ ] denied
Career Services Assistant Date

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Internship/Cooperative Education Consent and Release Form

Student Name: Degree: Student ID#: Major:

The following Agreement is designed to protect all participants in the University of Northern Virginias internship/Co-Op education programs, including students, faculty members, the University of Northern Virginia and the agencies and individuals cooperating with the University. You, as the student, should sign this form to indicate agreement and permission to participate. I understand that participation in the Co-Op program is entirely voluntary and that any such program involves some element of risk. I agree that in consideration of the University of Northern Virginia sponsoring this activity and permitting me to participate, I will indemnify, defend and hold harmless the University of Northern Virginia, its officers, agents, employees, successors and assigns from liability for any and all claims, demands, rights or causes of action, present or future, resulting from or arising out of any travel or activity conducted by or under the auspices of this internship program. I also understand that the University of Northern Virginia has the right to cancel my participation in this program if I violate any academic rules, immigration laws or any other violation under the U.S. laws. I also confirm the fact that I received a copy of the school Co-Op guide lines and I will follow all the rules in that document and any other regulation later imposed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). I also confirm that I will follow any other rules that the school might impose on the Co-Op program in order to improve the program and I will have to maintain a GPA of 3.0, keep my attendance rate not below 75% in all my classes and maintain S grade in all ORTN 590 practicum that I will register in order to continue with my CPT work authorization. I also understand that failing to secure S grade can cause termination of my CPT and denial of my application for vacation. I understand that the University requires that all students be covered by appropriate accident and medical insurance and that the student be financially responsible for such expenses.

Note: International students in F-1 visa status must obtain authorization from the Career Services Office before being able to work in the United States.

MY SIGNATURE BELOW VERIFIES THAT I AM COVERED BY THE REQUIRED INSURANCE. ALSO, I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE ABOVE PROVISIONS AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM. Students Signature: ___________________________________ Date:

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Curricular Practical Training Cancellation Form

Student Information
Last Name First Name M.I.

UNVA Student ID

@stud.unva.edu
SEVIS N# UNVA e-mail address

Phone: (

Degree:

Major:

Employer Information
Company Name:
Company Street Address

City

State

ZIP Code

Name and Position of Company Contact: Phone Number for Company Contact: Cancellation Date (mm/dd/yyyy): Reason for Leaving:

Certifications
By signing below, I attest that the above information is true and correct. I have read and understand the Co-op Overview. I recognize that the employer will provide a completed Co-op Student Evaluation Form with this cancellation form, otherwise I may not be approved for future CPT requests.

Student Signature

Date

By signing below, I indicate that this form was received by me and the request was processed on the date below.
Career Services Assistant Date

cpt@unva.edu

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University of Northern Virginia

7535 Little River Turnpike, #103 Annandale, VA 22003

Career Services Office

Phone: (703) 941-0949 Fax: (703) 941-0893

Performance Evaluation
Dear Supervisor: Please use this form to evaluate the performance of the UNVA Co-Op student at the end of 6 months of consecutive employment or when the employment has ended. After filling the form out, please go over it with the employee/student. This form may be returned by fax to (703) 941-0893, mailed to the Career Services Office at the address on top of the page, by email at cpt@unva.edu or hand-delivered to the Career Services Office at UNVA Annandale campus. If you have any questions, please contact the Career Services Office at 703-941-0949. Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Name of Company: Business/Sector: Name of Supervisor: Supervisors Title:

Location: Company Website:

Name of Student: Students Job Title: Phone Number:

Student ID Number: Email:

Please list the students primary assignments and projects:

Performance Rating Key E= Excellent S=Satisfactory NI=Needs Improvement U=Unsatisfactory NA=Not Applicable

Approach to Work Attendance/Punctuality Enthusiasm for Work Compliance with Policies Interpersonal Skills Leadership Qualities Teamwork Customer/Client Service E E E S S S NI NI NI U U U NA NA NA E E E S S S NI NI NI U U U NA NA NA

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Communication Skills Listening Skills Verbal Skills Writing Skills Presentation Skills Social Skills Reasoning Analytical/Investigative Skills Problem Solving Acceptance of Criticism Quality of Work/Productiveness Accuracy Innovation/Creative Thinking Initiative Organizational Skills Technical/Computer Skills Attention to Detail Ability to Meet Deadlines Overall Job Performance E E E E E E E E S S S S S S S S NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI U U U U U U U U NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA E E E S S S NI NI NI U U U NA NA NA E E E E E S S S S S NI NI NI NI NI U U U U U NA NA NA NA NA

Would you rehire this student: YES If NO, please give reason(s):

NO

Would you be interested in participating in a job fair organized by UNVA? Employers Comments:

YES

NO

Students Comments:

Employers Signature: Students Signature:

Date: Date:

cpt@unva.edu

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