Scholarships and employment for international students

International students are restricted in the funding they may access while studying in the U.S. Central State University cannot guarantee a full tuition scholarship to any student. One way to supplement tuition funding is to perform an internet search for scholarships. International students are not eligible to apply for federal grants or federally funded scholarships. Many of the same restrictions apply for co-op and internship searches. International students may be eligible for some privately funded and business scholarships. International students in the Honors College may explore Honors College Scholarships | Central State University. You may also consider additional campus scholarships by visiting Scholarship Central | Central State University. Here are some tips for your search when using your preferred web browser.

• Search key terms in your major.
• Use the Search and Find feature on your computer to look for restrictions in funding announcements. Terms such as “citizen,” “citizenship,” “sponsor,” and “visa” will often lead to indicators of eligibility.
• Record application Open Dates and Deadlines from previous funding sources to anticipate opportunities for the following year.

All students who work must obtain a Social Security number.

International students studying at Central State University may seek employment on campus in public facing positions.

Students who wish to work on-campus may complete an employment verification form and submit the completed document signed by their employer to the Center for International Education (CIE). An email will be forwarded to the student once the employment form has been reviewed and signed by the Principle Designated School Official (PDSO) or Designated School Official (DSO). Please visit CIE in Wesley 314 to obtain appropriate signatures from the PDSO or DSO. An email will be forwarded to students when their signed document may be collected.

All students who work must obtain a social security number.

International students who wish to gain practical training in their major may engage in internship and co-op opportunities. These opportunities may be paid or unpaid. International students who participate in paid practical learning experiences must adhere to certain restrictions.

International students who plan to engage in paid practical learning opportunities must:

• Have completed at least 30 course credits at Central State University.
• Engage in a position that is directly related to their major.
• Enroll in an internship or independent study course in their department by speaking with their academic advisor.

International students who intend to engage in paid practical learning opportunities must also: 

• Complete a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) form, if they are a currently enrolled student; or
• Complete an Optional Practical Training (OPT) form, if they are a graduating student.

Post-graduation OPT must be filed within 90 days before graduation date, or 60 days after graduation date. A notice to graduating students will be posted during the open processing window with instructions for filing.

International students may explore the listings accessible through the Office of Career Services resource Handshake as a starting guide for your internship search.

Please visit CIE in Wesley 314 to obtain appropriate signatures from the Principle Designated School Official (PDSO) or Designated School Official (DSO). An email will be forwarded to students when their signed document may be collected.