Academic Programs with Restrictions for F-1 International Students

Some of TCC's academic programs have restrictions for students studying with an F-1 visa:

  • Academic programs with a practical training component, and
  • Academic programs ineligible for an I-20.

Academic Programs with Practical Training Component

Programs that have a required internship, practical training component, practicum, or capstone course are considered Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Currently, TCC does not authorize F-1 CPT employment.

If you apply for one of the following programs, you must agree that you will not receive compensation of any kind (such as payment; income; or free goods or services) for any required internship, practical training component, practicum, or capstone course.

CPT Programs

  • Architectural Technology, AAS
  • Construction Management Technology, AAS
  • Culinary Arts, AAS
  • Catering/Private Chef, Certificate Level 2
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Certificate Level 2
  • Dietetics: Dietetic Technician, AAS
  • Dietetics: Dietary Manager, Certificate Level 1
  • Dietetics: Food & Nutrition Coach, Certificate Level 2
  • Emergency Medical Services, AAS
  • Paramedic Program, Certificate Level 1
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS), AAS
  • Hospitality Management: Food Service Management, AAS
  • Hospitality Management: Hospitality/Travel & Tourism, AAS
  • Hospitality Management: Meeting & Event Planning/Convention & Group Management, AAS
  • Mental Health Substance Abuse Counseling, AAS
  • Substance Abuse Counseling, Certificate Level 1
  • Nuclear Medicine Technology, AAS
  • Ophthalmic Technician, AAS
  • Ophthalmic Assistant I, Certificate Level 1
  • Ophthalmic Assistant II, Certificate Level 2
  • Radiologic Technology, AAS
  • Respiratory Care, AAS
  • Sign Language Interpreting, AAS
  • Surgical Technology, AAS
  • Vascular Interventional Radiography, ATC

Academic Programs Ineligible for I-20

Due to program length, course progression, or mode of instruction, TCC does not issue I-20s for the programs listed in this section.

If you plan to attend TCC on an F-1 visa, you should not apply for any of the following programs:

  • Accounting Clerk I, Certificate Level 1
  • Accounting Clerk II, Certificate Level 1
  • Accounting Clerk III, Certificate Level 2
  • Accounting Information Management, AAS
  • Administrative Specialist, Certificate Level 1
  • Applications Specialist, Certificate Level 1
  • Basic Bookkeeper, Occupational Skills Award
  • Basic Peace Officer Certification (requires US citizenship)
  • Human Resources Management, AAS
  • Human Resources Specialist I, Certificate Level 1
  • Human Resources Specialist II, Certificate Level 2
  • Office Assistant, Certificate
  • Office Technology Professional, AAS
  • Office Technology Specialist, Certificate Level 2

Updated February 23, 2024