Dashew Center
UCLA Dashew Center operates as the central hub to assist international students with services related to visa, resources, support, and advocacy on campus.
Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP)
International graduate students who plan to work as a TA must pass the UCLA Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP) exam. The breakdown of a passing score can be found here.
A student is exempt from having to take the Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP) if you meet such criteria:
1) they have earned a prior undergraduate degree from an institution at which English was the sole language of instruction and which is located in a country where English is the primary spoken language of everyday life
2) they have a valid TOEFL-iBT speaking score of 28 or higher or an IELTS speaking score of 8.5 or higher
*If you have earned your bachelor's degree from UCLA, you must also request an exemption.
If you believe you qualify for an exemption, you must fill out an exemption request form.
NRST Waiver
Students who have passed both University Written and Oral Qualifying Examinations, have been officially advanced to candidacy for the doctoral degree, and classified as a nonresident for tuition purposes are eligible for nonresident supplemental tuition (NRST) waiver for nine consecutive academic terms. Please note that the nine quarters include the terms on Leave of Absence and in absentia.
CPT
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
CPT is a work authorization for F-1 students to obtain off-campus internship, training, or employment (must be with a US employed in states).
The work must directly relate to the major field of study and academic curriculum at UCLA.
CPT Eligibility
CPT Restriction
OPT
Maintain F-1 Status
Visa
Dos & Don'ts
Resources
Dashew Center