F-1 and J-1 students must complete two full semesters before applying for CPT to start a paid, off-campus internship. In general, students should allow 15 business days for a CPT form to be processed: 5 days at Wagner and 10 business days at the Office of Global Services.

The ability to write clearly and concisely is a critical skill for all successful public service professionals. We provide several resources to support students as they strive for excellence in their written and verbal expressions.

Wagner’s International Student Workshops are designed to help Wagner students from outside of the U.S. acclimate to NYU and to New York City. Each workshop will focus on a different facet of adapting to U.S. and New York culture, offering information but also encouraging interactive discussion among students.

International students who wish to continue a paid, off-campus internship past three semesters must apply for Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT will not be extended for more than three semesters (including summer) or for more than three positions. Please note that It takes around 3-4 months to get approved for OPT.

New York State law requires that you submit records showing that you are immunized against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) and Meningitis (MENO).Verification forms are enclosed with the I-20 or DS-2019. Extra forms are available at the OGS office.

Upon admission, NYU's Office of Global Services (OGS) will be able to assist you with further instructions to clarify the process.  

Wagner requires all MPA and MUP students to graduate with professional experience that is directly related to their degree program, specialization, and career goals. Degree-relevant work experience to fulfill the Professional Experience Requirement (PER) is approved by Wagner’s Office of Career Services.

The following opportunities exist for Wagner students to brush up on their math skills:

Students typically fulfill the PER via a relevant work experience over one semester (i.e. 15-20 hours per week during fall or spring semesters, or 20-35 hours per week in the summer). Students may request up to three semesters of work experience relevant to the PER, approved by Wagner’s Office of Career Services.

It is not advisable to walk around New York with a large amount of cash. You may wish to open a bank account before entering the United States. Check with a bank in your home country about the easiest way to transfer sums of money in U.S. dollars from home.  Paying for large expenses may take several days to clear U.S. banks.

International students are obligated to file taxes while in the United States- even if they did not work in previous year. Though international students are required legally to file taxes, it may not mean that taxes must be paid.