Internships provide valuable opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. You are responsible for actively seeking and securing your internship opportunity.

To earn academic credit for your internship, you will need to coordinate with your academic department after securing the opportunity and register for the internship course, which should be taken concurrently with your internship. You will be required to pay for the course fees.

Support for Finding an Internship: While you are expected to secure your own internship, MET Career Development offers support to degree-seeking students through one-on-one and group advising appointments to assist with your search. Be sure to check the MET Events Calendar for upcoming events.

For International Students on an F-1 Visa

If you are an international student, you may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), provided that the CPT activity is directly related to your program of study. You must also be registered for an internship course and pay for its associated costs. For detailed information on CPT, please visit the International Students & Scholars Office website.

Eligibility: International students on an F-1 visa become eligible to apply for CPT after completing one full academic year of full-time enrollment. To count Summer Term as a “full semester” for OPT and CPT eligibility, you must be enrolled in at least 12 credits or both Summer 1 and Summer 2 sessions. Compliance with these requirements is your responsibility.

Process for CPT Work Authorization at MET:

  1. Land an internship opportunity and obtain a job offer.
  2. Work with your academic department to obtain CPT work authorization approval:
    • Each department may have its own procedures and deadlines.
    • Find a faculty member to serve as your listed instructor for the internship course. Your department will specify the requirements for earning a satisfactory grade.
    • Register for the internship course through your academic department.
  3. Submit your CPT work authorization request. The ISSO will review your request within 10 business days.
  4. If approved, your new I-20 with CPT work authorization will be uploaded to the ISSO Portal.
  5. If you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), you may apply for one once approved.

Interstride

MET has partnered with Interstride, the leading technology platform to help students and alumni find international-friendly jobs and internships in the US and globally.

Here’s a quick overview of Interstride’s offerings:

  • Targeted Job Search: Search for jobs and internships by work authorization and visa type.
  • Global Opportunities: Explore options in 70+ countries.
  • Insightful Employer Data: View historical H-1B sponsorship records.
  • Expand Your Network: Connect with international students from other colleges and universities on the portal.
  • Educational Resources: Access job search webinars and resources, such as the OPT calculator.

For details, current students at Metropolitan College should visit the Interstride website.