Ibrahim Gardner
International students on an F-1 visa can work as interns during or after their studies, but they must first obtain work authorization. Students can gain authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT authorizes internships that are part of the academic program and are integral to the student's major field of study. OPT allows students to work in areas related to their major for up to 12 months, with STEM majors qualifying for a 24-month extension. While CPT internships can be part-time or full-time, OPT allows for internships of up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during the summer or after graduation. F-1 students can also work full-time off-campus during the summer or after graduation if they experience economic hardship. However, they must first obtain authorization and ensure they meet eligibility requirements to avoid losing their F-1 status.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students on an F-1 visa | Can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week when classes are not in session |
| International students on an F-1 visa | Can work off-campus only after meeting eligibility requirements and obtaining official authorization |
| Curricular Practical Training (CPT) | Allows international students to gain practical experience through internships, cooperative education, practicums, or other experiences related to their field of study |
| CPT authorization | Requires approval from the school and must be part of the academic program and integral to the student's major field of study |
| CPT work hours | Up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer or after graduation |
| Optional Practical Training (OPT) | Allows international students to work in areas related to their major for up to one year before or after graduation |
| OPT eligibility | Requires enrollment for at least one academic year and active F-1 student status |
| OPT work hours | Up to 12 months, with a possible 24-month extension for STEM majors |
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What You'll Learn
- F-1 student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week outside of term time
- CPT authorization is required for internships that are part of an academic program
- OPT authorization is required for internships unrelated to an academic program
- Students must gain work authorization before starting internships
- Students can apply for internships through Handshake or other trusted sites
F-1 student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week outside of term time
International students enrolled full-time and in valid F-1 status can generally work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during term time when classes are in session. They can work up to 40 hours per week outside of term time, when classes are not in session. These students must obtain work authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) before they can start interning. CPT is a full-time or part-time training opportunity available during the school year or annual summer vacation. It must be authorized by a Designated School Official (DSO) and be part of the student's academic program and integral to their major field of study. CPT may be a paid or unpaid internship, cooperative education job, practicum, or other experience related to the student's field of study.
OPT, on the other hand, allows students to work in areas related to their major for up to 12 months, either before or after graduation. Students can usually work under OPT for up to 12 months, though STEM majors may qualify for a 24-month extension. Unlike CPT, internships under OPT do not need to be required for the student's academic program, but they should still relate to their major. To obtain OPT authorization, students will need to file Form I-765 with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once USCIS sends the student's Employment Authorization Document (EAD), they will be authorized to work their internship.
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CPT authorization is required for internships that are part of an academic program
International students on an F-1 visa can participate in internships as part of their academic program through Curricular Practical Training (CPT). CPT is a type of work authorization that allows international students to participate in paid and unpaid off-campus internships during their degree program. The internship must be considered an integral part of the student's degree program and must be directly related to their major field of study.
CPT authorization is required for internships that are a mandatory part of an academic program. CPT demonstrates that the internship is part of the curriculum and serves as a way of reporting the student's activity, employment, and location. This helps the student maintain their F-1 status. CPT authorization is not just about allowing students to get paid; it is also about ensuring that their practical experience is recognized as part of their academic curriculum.
Students must meet certain requirements to be eligible for CPT. They must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for at least one academic year, maintain their F-1 status each semester, and be enrolled full-time during the semester they wish to pursue CPT. Additionally, students must have secured a training position or internship offer and must register for an internship course, if applicable.
The process of obtaining CPT authorization typically involves consulting with a designated school official (DSO) and submitting the necessary documentation, such as the CPT I-20 Request Form and an internship offer letter. The DSO will review the student's request and determine their eligibility for CPT based on federal regulations and the student's academic program.
It is important to note that CPT authorization is not required for internships that take place outside of the United States, such as a summer internship in the student's home country. Additionally, there are different types of CPT, including required CPT, where the academic program mandates practical work experience for graduation, and optional CPT, which is work experience directly related to the student's field of study but not required for graduation.
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OPT authorization is required for internships unrelated to an academic program
International students on F-1 visas can undertake internships during their academic program. However, they must ensure that the internship is related to their field of study and that they have the necessary work authorization. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a common authorization option for internships during an academic program, while Optional Practical Training (OPT) is typically used for internships after graduation.
The key difference between CPT and OPT lies in their timing and purpose. CPT is typically used for internships during an academic program, while OPT is generally used for internships after graduation. CPT must be authorized by a Designated School Official (DSO) and must be an integral part of the student's academic program and major field of study. On the other hand, OPT can be used both during and after an academic program, providing flexibility for students.
Students should carefully consider their options when choosing between CPT and OPT. While CPT has no set limit and can be used multiple times, OPT is limited to a total of 12 months at each education level. Many students prefer to use CPT for internships during their academic program to save their OPT authorization for post-graduation opportunities. By strategically using both CPT and OPT, students can maximize their work experience in the US and extend their F-1 visa duration.
In conclusion, OPT authorization is necessary for internships unrelated to an academic program. Students should consult with their DSO to determine the most suitable authorization option for their specific circumstances and ensure they comply with all relevant regulations.
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Students must gain work authorization before starting internships
For international students on F-1 visas, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is the most common form of US work authorization for those seeking internships during their studies. Students must satisfy an academic year before becoming eligible for CPT. This type of authorization is designed to let students pursue internships, practicums, or similar practical training experiences integral to their educational degree. CPT is only available to currently enrolled students still working towards fulfilling their degree requirements.
Students can also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is a benefit and extension of F-1 status. F-1 students can gain practical work experience related to their major field of study for 12 months with OPT. Students with an approved STEM degree can apply for an additional 24 months of OPT work authorization.
Students must obtain work authorization before starting internships. Paid internships always require US work authorization. International students can work with their schools to obtain the required authorization before starting their internships. Unpaid internships may not require work authorization, but international students may still want to obtain it for legal protection.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants work authorization with the recommendation of the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). Students should review the ISSO website to learn about their unique status before starting any job search. Students must speak with their designated school official (DSO) to ensure they follow the rules and maintain their student status.
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Students can apply for internships through Handshake or other trusted sites
International students on an F-1 visa who wish to undertake an internship must first speak with their designated school official (DSO) to ensure they follow the rules and maintain their student status. Students must also ensure they do not work more than 40 hours per week during school terms, as this would violate their F-1 status.
Students can apply for internships through Handshake, a platform that connects students with employers offering internships and entry-level jobs. Students can also apply for internships directly through company websites or other trusted sites, such as those of UNICEF and NASA, which offer internship programs with varying eligibility requirements.
Handshake offers a wide range of opportunities for students to explore, with employers looking to hire students from diverse educational backgrounds. Students can create a profile, search for internships, and apply directly through the platform. They can also use Handshake to research companies, prepare for interviews, and connect with other students and alumni who can offer advice and support throughout the application process.
UNICEF, for example, offers internship opportunities throughout the year, providing direct practical work experience to students and recent graduates. Applicants can find current opportunities on the vacancies page and must carefully review the requirements for each role. UNICEF internships typically last between six and twenty-six weeks and can be full-time or part-time. They cover expenses and provide a monthly stipend to interns, as well as supporting visa applications where necessary.
NASA also offers a range of internship programs, including the NASA International Internship (NASA I²), which seeks to prepare students to work in a global environment. NASA internships provide training, mentoring, and career development opportunities, allowing interns to work alongside leading scientists, engineers, and professionals from various fields. NASA offers three internship sessions per year and provides information on eligibility and application requirements through webinars and other resources.
Students can also explore opportunities through other trusted sites, such as specific company websites or industry-specific platforms. It is important to carefully review the requirements and application processes for each internship and ensure that any necessary authorizations or visa requirements are met before commencing an internship.
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Frequently asked questions
International students enrolled full-time and in valid F-1 status can generally work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week when classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week when classes are not in session.
International students can be eligible for internships if they obtain work authorization through CPT or OPT. CPT, or Curricular Practical Training, lets you gain practical experience by working an internship or taking part in cooperative education during the school year or on summer break. OPT, or Optional Practical Training, can authorize you to work an internship before or after you graduate.
To obtain work authorization, you must first speak to your designated school official (DSO) to ensure you follow the rules and maintain your student status. Then, you must apply for internships on Handshake or another trusted site and obtain permission from your major advisor or graduate coordinator on the CPT recommendation form. Finally, you must submit the CPT application and recommendation form to your international student advisor.
