Practicum for International Students

Students on both an F1 and J1 visa must apply for work authorization prior to beginning their Practicum and the Policy Clinic. Always refer to the SISS website for the most up to date information. For questions, please contact your SISS advisor.

Students on an F-1 visa

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization permits F-1 students to take an off-campus job (work/study, internship, cooperative education, or practicum) that is directly related to their field of study and commensurate with their educational level. For more information and to apply, please visit the SISS website.

It may be paid or unpaid.
In most cases, you must have been a full-time student for at least nine months prior to applying for practical training permission.
CPT is authorized while you are still pursuing studies at UC Davis.

Impacts on EPM students

You cannot begin your Practicum until after you have been a full-time student for at least nine months.
- This means you can start your Practicum after the spring quarter of your first year.
- This policy also applies to 12-month students.

Students on a J-1 Visa

Students in J-1 status may accept employment under certain conditions. Academic Training is authorization that allows a student to participate in practical training directly related to the major field of study. For more information and to apply, please visit the SISS website.

Students must be in good academic status.
If employed at the same time of a program of study.
- Academic Training can begin as soon as the first day of the program of study.
If employed following a program of study.
- Academic Training must be authorized prior to the last day of the program of study.
- Academic Training can start as late as 30 days following the program of study.