International Student Program Requirements

International Student Eligibility

If you're an international student interested in interning through the UC Davis Washington Program, we’re excited to help you get started. Please read the important program requirements and visa-specific guidelines below to ensure you're eligible and prepared.

  • International Student Program Requirements

  • Degree seeking international students are potentially eligible for participation in the Washington Program. If you're on an F-1 or J-1 international student visa, you’ll need practical training authorization to intern through the Washington Program.

    We strongly encourage you to meet with a Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) advisor early in the process to discuss your eligibility and application steps.

  • Other Program Requirements

  • While we welcome all eligible students, these are the general guidelines for participation: 

    -GPA: 3.0 or above (preferred but not required) 

    -Class Standing: Junior or Senior

    Sophomores may apply if they’ve earned a B or better in upper-division coursework.

  • Internships & Work Authorization

  • International students at UC Davis with F-1 or J-1 visa status may participate in internships through the Washington Program if they meet certain U.S. federal and university requirements.

    F-1 Visa Holders

    This is the most common student visa for full-time degree seekers. To intern in Washington, D.C., F-1 students must apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

    Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

    • For off-campus work directly related to your major
    • Must be an integral part of your academic curriculum
    • Requires pre-approval from your academic department and SISS
    • Learn more: siss.ucdavis.edu

    Optional Practical Training (OPT)

    • Typically used after graduation
    • For longer-term employment or training opportunities
    •  

    J-1 Visa Holders

    Used by exchange visitors, including some non-degree-seeking students and visiting scholars.

    Academic Training (AT)

    • - For work related to your field of study
    • - Requires authorization through cie.ucdavis.edu
  • CPT Eligibility & Application Process

  • To intern through the Washington Program, F-1 students must:

    • - Have current valid F-1 status
    • - Have completed one academic year at UC Davis
    • - Have an internship offer directly related to your major
    • - Submit a CPT request via the UC Davis iGlobal system

    Steps to Apply for CPT:

    • - Review CPT eligibility and complete the online tutorial
    • - Secure a job offer letter with detailed duties and dates
    • - Start the CPT request in the iGlobal portal
    • - Obtain approval from your academic advisor and Washington Program coordinator
    • - Enroll in the required internship course
    • - Wait for your updated I-20 form with CPT authorization from SISS
    • - Begin your internship ONLY after CPT is approved and I-20 is issued
    •  

    Important: You may not begin your internship until your CPT is fully approved and you have received your updated I-20. Starting work before this may jeopardize your visa status.

Have Other Questions?

Connect with the UC Davis Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) to start your application and make sure you’re on the right track.