All graduate assistants for which an offer of employment is made on or after May 1, 2011, who are either a new hire or have incurred a six month or greater break in service.  A background check is also required anytime a change in employment group occurs.

Include in the comment section of the appointment form the length of time the individual has been residing in the United States. If the foreign national has been residing in the United States for more than six months prior to his/her appointment, he/she will be required to undergo a criminal background check.  A Criminal Background Check Authorization and Consent form will need to be attached to the appointment form submitted.   If the foreign national has been residing in the United States for less than six months prior to his/her appointment, he/she is not required to undergo a criminal background check as they have obtained necessary background clearances through the Department of Homeland Security.

Yes. Individuals who have never had a criminal background check before and are changing their appointment status from student employment to a graduate assistantship are required to undergo a criminal background check.