Planning to work in the U.S. after graduation?
Be sure to submit your OPT Request through the OISS Portal as the first step in the application process. Students may apply for OPT with the USCIS as early as 90 days prior to your program completion date and no later than 60 days after. Your program completion date is the official end date of your last term/semester.
To learn more about the process, please watch the OPT Workshop Video.
Please note that the processing time is 7–10 business days. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable Spring Break! 🌸 - The Office of International Students and Scholars |
*NEW* CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING (CPT) WEBINAR |
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| Thursday, March 19, 2026
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT
Virtual
Are you planning to do an internship on- or off-campus while attending your academic program?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows you to gain practical experience in your field of study through a paid or unpaid internship or work opportunity. It must be directly related to your program and linked to an academic course or program requirement, as outlined in the university catalog.
This workshop is designed to answer all your questions about CPT, from eligibility to the application process and timeline. We look forward seeing you! |
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*NEW* GET YOUR SPRINTAX DISCOUNT CODE NOW! |
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Additional Sprintax discount codes now available for purchase!
CLU has arranged $17 access to Sprintax Tax Preparation for you. Sprintax will guide you through the tax preparation process, prepare the necessary documents, and help determine if you may be eligible for a tax refund. After purchasing, you will receive instructions on how to use the code within 1–2 business days. If you have a state filing requirement, you must also mail the required documents to the tax authorities.
Please note that the tax filing deadline is on April 15. |
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TRAVELING THIS SUMMER? GET EXPERT ADVICE BEFORE YOU GO! |
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| Tuesday, March 31, 2026
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM PT
Virtual Are you planning to travel internationally this summer or renew your F-1 visa?
Join this upcoming session with Travis Feuerbacher, a former U.S. Consular Officer and immigration attorney, who will share helpful insights on the visa application process, preparing for your visa interview, and considerations when re-entering the United States. This webinar will also include a mock student visa interview and open Q&A to help answer your travel and visa-related questions. |
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FROM BUDGETING TO SCHOLARSHIPS: SMART TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS |
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Friday, March 27, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Swenson 106
Join us for an engaging workshop designed specifically for international students navigating financial life in the U.S.
During this session, experienced financial experts who will share practical, real-world strategies to help you budget with confidence, manage financial challenges, secure scholarships, and build strong financial habits with an alumni student panel.
Click the link below to register. We look forward to seeing you there! |
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MPOWER Financing: MONTHLY SCHOLARSHIP |
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Scholarships awarded annually to international and DACA students enrolled at MPOWER-eligible schools. Deadline: March 31, 2026
Award Amount: $1,000 (3 winners) Eligibility: Be accepted at, or enrolled in, a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school in the U.S. (CLU is eligible; check the approved degree list)
Be an international student allowed to legally study in the U.S, as applicable:
For study in the U.S., this means that the applicant meets one of these criteria: - Has a valid visa that permits study in the U.S.
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Is protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
- Is a U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder)
Please Note: This scholarship information is shared for reference only and should not be considered official guidance from the Office of International Students and Scholars. Students should always verify requirements, deadlines, and award details directly with the scholarship provider.
Click below to learn more about the Monthly Scholarship! |
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Missed last week's OISS Weekly? Here is our #ICYMI section. |
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Any request? Submit it from your OISS Student Portal and
allow 7-10 business days for processing |
Note from OISS: Some topics in this newsletter may involve immigration or legal considerations. This information is for general purposes only and is not intended to serve as formal legal advice. Please consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation. |
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©2026 California Lutheran University |
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