International Students
Hello, guten tag, y bienvenidos!
The International Student Services team at Calumet College covers several key areas of support to ensure that no matter where you’re joining us from, you have what you need to be successful here at CCSJ.
International Student Enrollment, Transfers & Employment
Whether you’re a brand new student studying in the United States for the first time, or you are currently an international student at another school and looking to transfer to Calumet College, we ask that you please visit our Enrollment page for more information. You can find that page here.
Many of our international students reach out to inquire about work opportunities while they are here with us. While we can never guarantee employment for international students, we can help them explore two primary options for legal work authorization and employment as an international student.
The first is referred to as Curriculum Practical Training or CPT:
International students are typically eligible for one semester of work authorization through CPT. CPT is in many ways an internship program, and it is expected that students utilize this to work and learn in a position related to their degree and ultimate career goals. In order for CCSJ students to receive CPT work authorization, they must also be enrolled in a credit-bearing course connected to their degree program. You can read more about CPT here.
The second option is referred to as Optional Practical Training or OPT:
In addition to CPT, International students are typically eligible for one year of OPT per degree level as well. OPT would allow students to receive authorization to work between part-time and full-time in a position related to their degree. Most students typically do this after graduation to maximize their time here in the States, but it can be activated early. It is important to note, though, that enacting OPT early may then limit work authorization options after graduation. You can read more about OPT here.
Both CPT and OPT require that international students have American Social Security cards as well. You can read more about the process of acquiring a Social Security number here.
Lastly, we know this can quickly become a complicated and overwhelming process, so we can encourage all international students to reach out directly to talk about their individual and unique situations in more detail. Please reach out to Matt Vicars, Director of Career Services and Student Success.
All international students are required to obtain and maintain their I-20 documentation. This document is vital to your success as a student, so we’ve clarified a few points for you below:
What is an I-20?
The I-20 is a multi-purpose document issued by a government-approved, U.S. educational institution certifying that you have been admitted to a full-time program of study, and have also demonstrated sufficient financial resources to stay in the U.S. The I-20 is officially titled the “Certificate of Eligibility” because with it, you are “eligible” to apply for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Your spouse or children will also each need their own I-20 to obtain F-2 dependent status, if desired.
Do I need the I-20 for travel?
When traveling abroad, students must take their I-20 with them. The I-20 is required to reapply for a visa (if needed) and for re-entering the United States. Before departure from the United States, students should verify that they have a valid travel endorsement on page 2 of their I-20 from a DSO at Calumet College. This signature is valid for one year for multiple visits outside the United States. In most cases, a travel endorsement can be done quickly and easily, however students should plan ahead and get their travel endorsement several weeks before departing the United States to avoid the holiday rush.
Why do I have multiple I-20s?
New I-20s are issued to continuing students whenever there is a significant update to a student’s record. This includes changes in biographical data, program dates, change of major, the addition of a work authorization, etc. These types of changes are typically prompted by student request.
What is the I-20 completion date?
The “completion date” is entered in the Program Start/End Date section of the I-20 based on a student’s particular major and degree level. This is an estimate of time the University feels it may take to fulfill all degree requirements. However, if a student is not able to finish the program on that date, an extension must be requested at least one month before the completion date expires.
According to U.S. immigration regulations, the “completion date” is defined as the day final degree requirements are completed. The actual completion date may not necessarily be the day of the graduation ceremony or the date on the I-20. (In fact, many students actually finish degree requirements before the completion date on the I-20).
The 60-day Grace Period
When students complete a study program, they are allowed a 60-day grace period to either 1) depart the United States, 2) request a school transfer, or 3) change visa status.
Note: Students who are interested in working in the United States following their program completion must apply for Optional Practical Training work authorization before the expiration of the 60-day grace period.
What happens if I lose my I-20?
You can request a replacement I-20 by contacting one of the DSOs. Please note that if you are outside the United States, you must obtain the replacement I-20 before entering the U.S. to resume your studies. Allow sufficient time for processing and email delivery.
Should I keep all copies of my I-20s?
Yes. You may obtain several different versions of your I-20s while you are in the United States if there are changes to your program or other information. Keep all copies for future reference. Always use the most recently issued I-20 for travel, work, or other purposes. Which one is the most recent? Check the Date Issued under the School Attestation section. if you have multiple I-20s, always use the most recently issued I-20.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your I-20, your passport, and your I-94 record. Your visa can expire after you enter the U.S., but you need a valid and active visa to re-enter the U.S. after travelling abroad. Review the Maintaining Status page for more information.
You must keep your contact information (local address, email, phone number) and academic programs (majors and minors) current. Please contact DSO staff to provide updates within 10 days of any changes.
All international F-1 visa students must be enrolled full-time. A full-time courseload is 12 credits or more in Calumet College’s fall and spring semesters. Enrollment and courseload requirements do not apply to the summer semester.
By immigration law you must pursue a “full course of study.” This means you need to be enrolled in 12 semester credit hours to keep your status as an F-1 student. If you cannot enroll in or complete 12 credit hours at Calumet College for ANY reason, you must speak with your Academic Advisor BEFORE dropping below full-time status! Dropping below full-time status will affect your F-1 status and is only available in certain situations. If you have a legitimate reason (i.e., a medical or academic problem), your request must be approved before you can drop below full time.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) assigns nine-digit Social Security numbers (SSNs) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and eligible nonimmigrant workers in the United States. SSA uses SSNs to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes. Every student with an F or M visa, who U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grants employment authorization to needs an SSN.
To start the process of obtaining a social security number, please follow additional instructions here.
Students with F and M visas, and their dependents, may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle while residing in the United States. However, those who wish to operate a vehicle must successfully apply for and receive a driver’s license. Driving a car without a driver’s license is illegal. To acquire a driver’s license, you must apply for one at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which can have a different name in some states.
To start the process of obtaining a United States Driver’s License, please follow additional instructions here.
The good news is that there is a team of us here at CCSJ who are here to help all international students. Please view the team information below, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have.
We're here to help
Primary Designated School Official:
Dr. Dionne Jones-Malone
E-mail: djonesmalone@ccsj.edu
Phone: (219) 473-4305
Office: Room 177
Designated School Officials:
Michael Biegel
E-mail: mbiegel@ccsj.edu
Phone: (219) 473-4211
Office: Room 117
Matthew Vicars
E-mail: mvicars@ccsj.edu
Phone: (219) 473-4253
Office: Room 101-B
