General Questions
International Student FAQ's
What is the
Cooperative Education Program?
Co-op helps students find academically-relevant paid internships. Co-op
assists students by faxing and mailing out resumes; keeps information
on companies, and contacts students regarding opportunities.
Are the
internships full-time or part-time?
Internships are both full and part-time; time commitment depends on the
position, company, and the time of year.
Who qualifies
for the program?
To qualify for the program, students must: see
eligibility
How do I
sign-up for Co-op?
Just fill out our registration packet, available online or in our
office at SCI 248.
How does an internship benefit me?
see Why Coop
How long does
it take to find a placement?
Some placement opportunities become available immediately. Others can
take up to 3-6 months, just like real life! There are no guarantees but
we will do our best to place you.
What kind of
units do I earn for the internship?
Units earned in AU 293, AU 693, & AU 793 are elective units.
They're not intended to fulfill General Education or major
requirements. Please contact your major advisor if you are taking a
Departmental Internship course.
How do I
register for the course?
see How to Register
What if I
find my own job/internship?
If you find your own job, you would not be required to add any units.
If the position is academically relevant & you would like Co-op
units, the Co-op office can help.
If I have a
job already, can I get units for it?
Only if it is academically relevant. See Hours
of Work Chart
All positions must be approved through the Cooperative Education
Program.
Why so many
units?
Appropriate credits reflect University recognition and support for your
work.
Why do I have
to sign up for units, anyway?
Some employers require enrollment in internship units. In addition,
enrollment entitles you to health care, student services, University
support, financial aid, term life insurance and worker's compensation.
Can I waive
the program prerequisites?
Yes, students can petition to waive the college regulations by
submitting a resume, unofficial transcript, 2 letters of recommendation
from faculty and a petition form. Students must also meet with the
Program Director for approval.
What if I
have other questions?
Contact the Cooperative Education
Program at (415) 338-1050 or stop by our office in Science 248.
Isn't it
illegal to hire international students because they do not have a green
card?
No. Federal regulations permit the employment of international students
of F-1 visas within certain limits. These visas allow students to work
in jobs related to their major field of study; its called Curricular
Practical Training.
What income
taxes are International Students required to pay?
International students on F-1 visas are subject to federal, state, and
local income taxes. However, they are exempt from Social Security
(FICA) and Medicare taxes.
How long can
international students work in the U.S. with their student visa?
F-1 students are eligible for Curricular Practical Training before
completing their studies, as well as 1 year of Optional Practical
Training (usually done after finishing their studies).
Don't
international students need a work authorization before they can be
hired?
No. They only need work authorization before they start actual work. In
fact, F-1 students applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
must have a written job offer before they are given authorization.
What does the
CPT work authorization look like?
CPT work authorization is given by SFSU's Office of International
Programs and can be found on the back of the Student's I-20 form. "No
INS endorsement is necessary" per 8CFR 274a 12(b)(6)(iii)
