Current International Students
International students are an integral part of the OJC campus
International students at Otero receive a quality education wrapped in an experience
that will last a life time. Through programs, activities and events designed to enhance
the student experience we strive to foster awareness, understanding and appreciation
of all cultures while providing crucial support services to our international student
population.
Maintain Your Status
Find out why falling out of status opens the door to potential complications and serious problems with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). It can affect your ability to obtain a US visa or enter the country in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions? We have answers. Sometimes knowing the right question to ask is the key to understanding. We have tried to provide for you many of the Frequently Asked Questions and the answers to those questions.
Important Documents
It is important that you understand the types of documents that you need to have completed or in your possession as you prepare to come to the United States to study.
Travel Out of Country
If your plans include traveling out of the country or within the country, there are some important documents you will need to have.
International Scholarship Overview
Download the Scholarship Options PDF for useful and important information concerning scholarships you can apply for.
Student Hourly Employment
As federal funds (work-study) may not be used to support international student employment, the Otero International Relations Office has made limited funds available to provide the opportunity for on-campus employment, referred to commonly as “Student Hourly Employment”, to a limited number of students.
Curricular Practical Training
Curricular Practical Training, or CPT, is work authorization that allows F-1 students to gain practical work experience in their field of study prior to the completion of their academic programs.
Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is employment authorization which allows F-1 students to apply knowledge gained in the classroom to a practical work experience.
Economic Hardship
Help for Unforeseen Circumstances. F-1 students who do not qualify for employment under Practical Training (CPT or OPT) may be eligible to apply to USCIS for off-campus work authorization based on economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances.
