How to determine if a job or internship can be used to satisfy the Professional Experience Requirement (PER)

Your PER position must be directly relevant to your career goals as well as your degree program and specialization. The role must provide opportunities to practically apply the skills and knowledge gained through your coursework and to gain the skills and knowledge needed to compete for employment in your field of interest.

If you’re a full-time student you should work 15-20 hours per week if your PER position is during the fall or spring semester and 30-40 hours per week if it is during the summer. Part-time students typically work 40 hours per week in a PER role. PER positions should last a minimum of 8 eight weeks.

If you are considering using a position for the PER and want to verify that it qualifies as “relevant” before accepting the position, please complete a PER Pre-Approval Form. Career Services staff will review your form and follow up in 3-5 business days.

You can also visit OCS drop-in hours for broader questions about PER positions.

International students must follow specific guidelines when pursuing PER and working in the United States. Read more about the additional requirements relevant to you.