TARGET USA

Subsidiary of US Educational
Consultancy Service LLC USA

15 Years of

Excellence

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Subsidiary of US Educational
Consultancy Service LLC USA

Apply Now!

Employment Opportunities while Studying

3 types of off-campus employment and career opportunities

In US International students (with F-1 Visa) may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. After the first academic year, International students may engage in three types of off-campus employment:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) (pre-completion or post-completion)
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

International students may also be eligible to work off-campus on a case-by-case basis as a result of special situations such as severe economic hardship or special student relief.

STEM OPT Extension

OPT employment authorization

If you have earned a degree in certain science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, you may apply for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT employment authorization if you:

  • Are an F-1 student who received a STEM degree included on the STEM Designated Degree Program List (PDF);
  • Are employed by an employer who is enrolled in and is using E-Verify; and
  • Received an initial grant of post-completion OPT employment authorization based on your STEM degree.

Employment Opportunities After Graduation

OPT, STEM OPT extension, H-1B Visa, and Green card.

in the US, several regulations must be followed by international students while working. We understand how this may concern you and cause confusion. However, these rules aren’t nearly as complicated as you think they are!

There are few methods to work and stay in the US legally after graduation ranging from post-completion OPT, STEM OPT extension, H-1B Visa, and Green card.

H-1B Visa

With the help of the U.S. employers sponsoring, international students can expect to transfer their F-1 student visa status to an H-1B status. This will allow you to work and live in the US for up to 6 years. Similar to OPT and STEM OPT extensions, you must be deemed eligible by the USCIS.

FAQs

Can International students work in the U.S. after graduation?

International students can work in the US after graduating via post-completion OPT, STEM OPT extension, H-1B Visa, and Green Card permit. However, they must obtain the work authorization first.

Can International students work in the U.S.?

International students can work in the U.S. both while studying and post-graduation. Both scenarios have several options including CPT, OPT, STEM OPT extension, H-1B status, green card, etc.

How long can international students stay in the US after graduation?

International students are only allowed to stay for up to 60 days in the U.S. after finishing their college degrees. This is so that they are able to wrap up their affairs or perhaps partake in tourism.

What do international students do after graduation?

In most cases, international students will jump onto looking for job openings and opportunities to try and extend their F-1 visa status. This is mainly because they are allowed to work as OPT after graduation.

Can you intern as an international student after graduation?

After graduation, international students on an F-1 visa can engage in internships through Optional Practical Training (OPT). Unlike Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which is utilized during the study, OPT allows graduates to work in their field of study for up to 12 months, extendable by 24 months for STEM fields. Internships can form part of this practical training, offering real-world experience post-graduation.

How hard is it to get a work visa in the U.S.?

Obtaining a work visa in the U.S., such as the H-1B, can be challenging due to the limited number of visas issued annually and the competitive nature of the application process. Transitioning from a student visa (F-1) to a work visa requires careful planning and often centers on securing employer sponsorship.

Are there any specific industries or sectors more open to hiring international students?

The technology sector is notably receptive to offering OPT jobs for international students, especially those with STEM degrees. Data show high employment rates for international students in tech companies, including giants like Amazon and Google, reflecting the industry's demand for skilled professionals.

Can F1 students apply for a green card?

F1 students can apply for a green card, but the process is complex and often requires transitioning to a dual-intent visa like the H-1B. The path to permanent residency typically involves employer sponsorship, marriage to a U.S. citizen, or other qualifying circumstances.

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