Career Certificate—International (CC-I)
Gain a higher level of career competence and practical skills.
What is the Career Certificate- International?
This nationally awarded, innovative program features weekly workshops, peer mentoring, and tools to build your networking, job search, and interviewing skills. Upon completion, you’ll earn a Career Certificate—a valuable credential to showcase your workplace readiness to employers.
Any eligible student who is considered a residential student may apply for the CC-I program. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an information session to apply.
Fall 2025 Timeline
NEW DEADLINE: CC-I Application: September 7, 2025 (with rolling reviews through September 12.)
Upcoming Information Sessions
- August 26 | 4 p.m. | Online
- August 27 | 4 p.m. | Everitt Laboratory, Room 2310
- August 29 | 4 p.m. | Online
- September 2 | 3 p.m. | Education Building, Room 2
Online link: https://go.illinois.edu/TCC-online-workshop
Students enrolled in residential degree programs. Students enrolled in remote online programs are not considered residential students. You have to be taking classes IN-PERSON while residing in the U.S. If you are residing in a country other than the U.S., you are NOT considered as a residential student.
This service is open to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, or national origin. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request, please contact careercenter@illinois.edu.
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CC-I Program Requirements
To complete the CC-I program, you must:
- Attend and actively participate in at least six of the weekly CC-I workshops.
- Complete assigned milestones and tasks associated with the CC-I program.
The Career Center offers two options for the CC-I workshop each semester, participants only need to choose one section to attend for the entire semester. For Fall 2025, the CC-I program runs from Tuesday, September 16 to Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Participants can choose:
- Virtual: Tuesdays from 3:00–4:30 p.m.
- In-Person: Wednesdays from 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Benefits of the CC-I Program
Understand different visa-related processes
Build intercultural understanding in workplace
Explore international career opportunities
The CC-I program has been offered by The Career Center since 2012, and in 2016 received the Services to International Students award, a national award presented by the National Career Development Association.
For more information, please reach out to the Assistant Director for International Student Career Development, Dr. Shiyu Sun at shiyus2@illinois.edu.
Apply to be an International Career Navigator!
Gain mentoring and peer leadership experience in this unique employment opportunity at The Career Center. Learn more about the International Career Navigator Program and the application process!
CC-I Success Story
CC-I Term: Fall '23
Major: Advertising
Minor: Communication
What motivated you to join the CC-I Program?
While planning my graduation and job search, I came across a job application for the program through a newsletter from the career center. As an international student and former Orientation Leader for the New Student Program, I've always wanted to share my experiences to help new students avoid unnecessary challenges. With the goal to further my personal growth and assist others, I applied to join the program.
How would you describe your overall experiences as a CC-I navigator?
My time as a navigator was incredibly rewarding, especially in the interactions with the students in my group. These conversations were not just about guiding them on their career paths but also provided a platform for them to share their insights and experiences with me. Listening to their career plans fueled my drive for a brighter future, motivating me to work even harder.
What was the most meaningful thing you learned or gained in the CC-I program?
One particularly meaningful thing I learned from the program is understanding that meaningful gains require active effort and the pursuit of opportunities. Whether it's during my time learning about networking or searching for a job, actively seeking chances has always been crucial. It's this kind of effort that paves the way to an actual career path.
CC-I Term: Fall '23
Major: Community Health
What motivated you to join the CC-I Program?
I was motivated to join the CC-I Program because it's a gateway for international students seeking to become more confident and competitive applicants. It's a community of like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, all driven by the shared goal of increasing career competence.
How would you describe your overall experiences as a CC-I navigator?
I really enjoyed my time throughout the CC-I Program. It was great meeting people at different stages of their career journey and learning about their individual experiences. Everyone was very friendly, helpful and supportive. The collaborative spirit among all participants and navigators fostered meaningful discussions and allowed us to exchange valuable insights.
What was the most meaningful thing you learned or gained in the CC-I program?
This experience helped me become a more confident applicant. The tailored mentorship, seminars, and hands-on assignments in the CC-I Program helped me refine my application and develop a deeper understanding of my professional capabilities.