INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS (VISA & OPT)

SEVIS and M-1/F-1 visa status

The California College of Music is approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to issue SEVIS I-20 forms to international students who intend to apply for F-1 or M-1 student visas.

• M-1 visa students are approved to stay in the United States for the duration of the program they have enrolled in. It is difficult for students on an M-1 visa to stay for a longer period of time or transfer to other schools.

• F-1 visa students have much more flexibility with the length of time they can be in the United States , and they have more academic options. For example, students may simultaneously study English in CCM's Intensive English Program (IEP) and also enroll in music classes. Once they are comfortable speaking English, they may enroll in one of CCM's Professional Music Programs, or choose to transfer any other American university or community college.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Each student who completes a program of study at CCM has the opportunity to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) . OPT is employment approved by the United States in a job that is related to the CCM program you completed. Students on OPT are authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to work full-time anywhere in the U.S. for one year.

Jobs in music are never guaranteed, but potential positions may include: live sound engineer for a music venue, paid internships at a record label or publishing company, or an entry-level position at a recording studio.

To qualify for one year of OPT, students must have an F-1 or M-1 visa; complete a one-year Professional Program at CCM; and receive satisfactory grades. Students who complete programs shorter than one year may still apply for OPT, although the authorized work period may differ.