Douglas Olsen
International students can do internships, and many do. However, there are several hurdles to overcome, including visa rules, work permits, and cultural differences. The process can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help international students find and secure internships. Visa-wise, international students already studying in the US will need an F1 visa to intern, while those coming solely for an internship will likely need a J-1 visa. International students can also take advantage of their university's career services, which often have ties with firms open to hiring international students, as well as online job boards and internship platforms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students do internships? | Yes, international students can do internships in the US. |
| Visa requirements | F1 visa or J-1 visa. |
| Visa application support | Available through an internship placement provider. |
| Visa type for international students studying in the US | F1 visa. |
| Visa type for internships in the US for students not studying in the US | J-1 visa. |
| Visa type for CPT | F1 visa. |
| Visa type for OPT | F1 visa. |
| CPT requirements | Must have completed the first year at university, and have authorization on their F1 visa. |
| OPT requirements | Approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. |
| OPT duration | Up to 12 months, full-time, or longer depending on the field of study. |
| CPT duration | Up to 12 months. |
| CPT type | Paid or unpaid. |
| CPT paperwork | Submitted to the International Office. |
| OPT type | Pre-completion or post-completion. |
| Internship search support | Available through a Career Coach or Internship Specialist. |
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What You'll Learn
Visa requirements: F1 or J-1
The F-1 visa is for international students who want to study in the United States. The J-1 visa, on the other hand, is a non-immigrant visa for exchange visitors who want to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States, including internships and training.
To be eligible for a J-1 visa, applicants must be enrolled in and pursuing studies at a foreign degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary academic institution outside the United States. Alternatively, they must have graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to their exchange visitor program start date.
The J-1 Visa has 15 categories, including the J-1 intern visa category. The J-1 intern visa is for students and recent graduates from universities outside the United States who want to apply for an internship in the country to gain practical experience in their field of study for up to 12 months. The duration of a J-1 visa can vary between 4 months and 5 years, depending on the category.
F-1 students can also participate in summer internships and training. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a full-time or part-time training opportunity available during the school year or annual summer vacation. Students must obtain permission from their major advisor or graduate coordinator on the CPT recommendation form and submit the CPT application to their international student advisor. Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is another training option for F-1 students that can be full-time during the summer vacation. Summer internships that are paid and require training in a position where the organization would usually hire someone require authorization.
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CPT and OPT options
As an international student in the United States, you have the option of gaining practical work experience through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). Both CPT and OPT allow international students to engage in meaningful work in a variety of fields and industries.
CPT is primarily for internships before you graduate. To be eligible for CPT, the work opportunity must be required by your academic program, and your employer will have an agreement with your school. CPT can be part-time or full-time work, but if you choose to work full-time for 12 months on CPT, you will become ineligible for OPT. CPT does not require additional fees outside of your student visa requirements and tuition.
OPT lets you seek employment before or after you complete your degree. OPT must relate to your major or course of study, and you must have been a full-time student for at least one year. To get work authorization for OPT, you must receive an I-20 form with a recommendation for OPT from a school official, and then apply via Form I-765 with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The OPT application process can be long (90+ days), so make sure to apply as soon as possible. You will need to pay taxes on income you make through your OPT employment.
To determine your eligibility for CPT and OPT, speak to your International Student Office on campus.
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Compliance with immigration regulations
- F-1 Visa: This is the most common visa for international students enrolled in academic programs. F-1 visa holders can apply for paid or unpaid internships without additional paperwork. However, they are restricted to working 20 hours per week for part-time internships related to their curriculum. F-1 students must have work authorization and can work on-campus for up to 20 hours during the school session and full-time during vacations.
- J-1 Visa: The J-1 visa is for students who are not enrolled full-time in an academic program. It allows them to work as trainees in the US. J-1 visa holders can work for up to 18 months in academic training. Those solely coming to the US for an internship can apply for a J-1 Intern or Trainee visa.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is a type of work authorization under the F-1 visa. Students must complete their first year of college, and their internships must relate to their degree program. CPT can be full-time or part-time, but 12 months of full-time CPT eliminates eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT allows international students to work full-time in the US. Pre-completion OPT must relate to the student's major, and they must file Form I-765 for employment authorization. Students can engage in OPT internships before or after completing their degree.
- H-1B Status: The H-1B visa is for international employees with undergraduate or graduate degrees. The sponsoring company submits the application to the USCIS, and the status is initially granted for up to three years, renewable for up to six years.
- Dependent Visas: International students can also attend university on dependent visas, such as H-1B, E-1/E-2/E-3, L-1, or O-1. Students on dependent visas are generally ineligible to work unless the work is voluntary under the six-factor test.
It is essential to maintain compliance with visa requirements, as working without authorization can result in severe consequences, including deportation. International students should consult with their designated school officials (DSOs) and seek guidance from their universities' international student offices to ensure they comply with immigration regulations when pursuing internships in the United States.
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University internship partners
International students can typically participate in off-campus internships through Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Students can be eligible for CPT internships if they have been enrolled full-time for two long semesters and have maintained their F-1 visa status. The internship must be related to their major field of study and be taken for course credit or be required for the completion of their degree.
International students already studying in the US on an F-1 visa can undertake internships through CPT. This is typically easier because the paperwork is already filled out for their F-1 student visa. CPT internships can be paid or unpaid and must be related to the student's degree. Students must apply for authorization on their student visa and receive an updated I-20 form before beginning their internship.
Students can look on-campus or further afield with independent internships. They can choose between CPT, a degree-related internship, or OPT, which can be unrelated to their degree. OPT internships require approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
International students can also participate in micro-internships through platforms like Parker Dewey by using CPT. Students will need to obtain a formal offer letter from Parker Dewey after being selected for a micro-internship and enroll in a course to obtain credit for the internship.
Additionally, university internship partners can help international students identify and apply for suitable internship opportunities. They can leverage their connections with established companies to enhance students' chances of securing placements. Partners can also support students in preparing their internship applications, providing resume writing assistance, and offering interview preparation resources.
In summary, university internship partners can serve as invaluable resources for international students navigating the US internship landscape. They can provide comprehensive support, from visa guidance and cultural understanding to practical assistance with internship applications and placement opportunities. By partnering with universities, international students can access the necessary tools and insights to successfully pursue internships in the US.
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Internship placement providers
International students can undertake internships in the United States. The process can be challenging, especially when it comes to navigating visas, understanding the work culture, and securing a competitive internship placement. However, with perseverance and the right support, international students can successfully obtain internships that provide valuable experience and contribute to their career development.
One option to consider when seeking an internship as an international student is to engage with an internship placement provider. These providers offer a range of services to simplify the process and improve your chances of securing a desirable internship. Here are some key advantages of using an internship placement provider:
- Logistics and Application Assistance: Placement providers handle most of the internship logistics, including visa support and application preparation. They guide you through the complex visa requirements, ensuring you have the necessary paperwork for your specific situation. They also help craft a strong internship application, increasing your chances of success.
- Established Company Connections: Placement providers often have strong connections with established companies. This gives you an advantage when applying for internships as you can leverage their industry relationships. It becomes easier to get noticed by potential employers and secure an interview or assessment opportunity.
- In-Country Support: Internship placement providers typically offer in-country support throughout your internship journey. This includes assistance with accommodation and any other challenges that may arise during your time in a new country. Having this support system can make your transition smoother and less daunting.
- Guaranteed Placement: One of the most significant benefits of using an internship placement provider is the assurance of a guaranteed placement. This removes the uncertainty often associated with internship applications and allows you to focus on preparing for your role.
While internship placement providers usually require a fee for their services, the benefits they offer can make them a worthwhile investment. The support provided by these providers can enhance your overall internship experience and help you secure opportunities that align with your career goals.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can do internships in the US. However, they need to ensure they have the correct visa and work authorization.
The type of visa you need depends on whether you are already a student in the US or if you are coming to the US solely for the internship. Students already in the US will need an F1 visa, while those coming for the internship will likely need a J1 visa.
There are several ways to find internships in the US as an international student. You can use online job boards and internship platforms such as LinkedIn or Indeed, or you can take advantage of university career services, which often have ties with companies open to hiring international students. Networking at career fairs, events, and workshops can also help you find opportunities.
