Working While Studying: International Phd Student's Guide

International PhD students face a unique set of challenges when seeking employment, particularly in terms of visa requirements and immigration status. In the United States, international PhD students must navigate various visa options, including F1 visas, OPT, and J1 visas, to secure their stay and work authorization. The competition for jobs is fierce, and students must deal with the stress of visa requirements while also transitioning out of academia. In the UK, international PhD students can generally work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during their studies, but their income cannot be their primary source of PhD funding. Additionally, following Brexit, EU students from outside the UK are now considered international students, impacting their visa and work permissions. Overall, international PhD students must be well-informed about the specific rules and requirements of their host country to successfully navigate the job market and secure employment.

Characteristics of international PhD students working abroad

Visa options for international PhD students in the US

International PhD students in the US have several visa options available to them, depending on their goals and situation. Here are some of the most common visa paths:

F-1 Student Visa

The F-1 visa is the most common visa for international students in the US, including those pursuing full-time PhD studies. It allows students to seek on-campus employment for up to 20 hours per week and, after the first year, certain types of off-campus work with authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). F-1 visa holders can also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain work experience related to their field of study. OPT typically provides 12 months of work authorization, with a possible extension of up to 24 months for STEM graduates.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in authorized exchange programs, including research assistants, professors, scholars, and students. J-1 visa holders may be able to work in the US if their program allows it, and the visa can be valid for up to five years for individuals with specialized skills. Accompanying family members can apply for the J-2 visa.

H-1B Visa

The H-1B is a temporary work visa for skilled foreign workers, including those with PhDs. It can be obtained through academic or non-academic jobs, with the academic positions falling under the cap-exempt category. After six years on an H-1B visa, individuals can apply for permanent residence through an Employment-Based Green Card program.

O-1 Visa

The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in fields such as science, arts, business, education, athletics, or the film industry. This visa is initially approved for three years and can be renewed annually. Accompanying family members can apply for the O-3 nonimmigrant visa.

EB-1 and EB-2 Visas

The EB-1 and EB-2 are Employment-Based Immigrant Visas. The EB-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities who have achieved national or international acclaim. The EB-2 visa is for those whose work, often research, is of national importance. Both visas lead to permanent residence in the US.

It is important to carefully consider your goals and eligibility when choosing a visa path and to stay informed about the specific requirements and processes for each visa type.

Work-and-study-based exchange programs

International PhD students can participate in work-and-study-based exchange programs, allowing them to gain valuable experience and skills while also pursuing their academic goals. These programs offer opportunities for cultural exchange, academic development, and career advancement. Here are some examples of such programs:

Erasmus+ Exchanges

Erasmus+ is a well-known program that facilitates student exchanges, including doctoral candidates, between higher education institutions in Europe and worldwide. It offers various opportunities, such as long-term and short-term mobility options, with a focus on promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration. Erasmus+ students are typically exempt from additional fees and may even receive extra support and grants. The program emphasizes fair and transparent selection processes, ensuring equal opportunities for applicants.

University of Cambridge and Sciences Po Exchange

The CamPo research partnership between the University of Cambridge and Sciences Po offers an exchange program for social science PhD students. This program allows students to spend time studying and conducting research in the partner institution, providing them with access to resources and facilities. The minimum duration for this exchange is two months, and students remain registered as PhD students with their home institution while benefiting from the academic offerings of the host institution.

OxPo Exchange

Sciences Po also has an exchange partnership with the University of Oxford, known as OxPo. This program enables doctoral students to spend up to six months in Oxford, affiliated with one of the partner departments as Academic Visitors. The OxPo exchange provides access to libraries and working spaces, as well as social and academic activities, fostering a well-rounded experience for visiting scholars.

University of Washington (UW) Exchanges

UW offers a range of exchange programs with partner universities worldwide, providing opportunities for international PhD students to study abroad. These exchanges cater to students from various departments, offering academic immersion and cultural exchange. The university provides resources to help students plan their finances for these programs, as there are program fees, study abroad fees, and insurance costs associated with them.

These examples highlight the diverse range of work-and-study-based exchange programs available to international PhD students. Each program has its own unique benefits, duration, and application process. By participating in these programs, students can enhance their academic profiles, gain international experience, and build valuable connections in their respective fields.

Working in the UK as an international PhD student

International PhD students in the UK are generally allowed to work a limited number of hours per week while pursuing their doctorate. However, there are specific rules and visa requirements that must be adhered to. Here is a guide to help you understand the process and options for working in the UK as an international PhD student:

Working During Your PhD:

Most international PhD students in the UK are permitted to work alongside their studies, provided they do not exceed 20 hours of work per week. This arrangement allows students to supplement their income while pursuing their degree. However, it's important to note that this income should not be relied upon as the primary source of funding for your PhD.

There are also restrictions on the type of work you can undertake. You are not allowed to engage in business or self-employment, nor can you provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer. Additionally, you cannot pursue a permanent full-time vacancy.

Visa Requirements:

As an international student, you will likely need a student visa to study in the UK. This applies to full-time and part-time PhD courses. The UK operates a points-based student visa system, and you should apply for this visa before travelling to the UK. Your visa will be valid for the duration of your PhD as long as you remain enrolled at your sponsoring university.

Working After Your PhD:

Once you have completed your PhD, you have the option to remain in the UK for up to four additional months under the terms of your student visa. This period can be used to seek skilled work and apply for another visa, such as the Graduate Route visa. The Graduate Route visa allows international students who have completed their doctorate to stay and work in the UK for up to three years after their PhD.

Internships and Work Experience:

Internships are a great way to gain work experience during your PhD. You are permitted to undertake internships as long as they do not exceed three months and meet certain other criteria. These include being paid and offering conditions comparable to those for a 'resident worker' in the same role.

Challenges and Persistence:

Finding work as an international PhD student in the UK can be challenging due to the competitive job market and visa requirements. Some organisations may be reluctant to offer visa sponsorship, which can lead to rejections. However, persistence is key. Starting your job search early, gaining relevant work experience, and staying updated with visa rules will improve your chances of finding employment.

In summary, while international PhD students in the UK have work opportunities, it is important to understand the visa requirements and plan accordingly. The right to work is typically limited to part-time roles, and you should be prepared for a potentially lengthy job search process.

Funding options for international PhD students

Funding a PhD can be daunting, especially for international students. However, there are many funding options available for international PhD students, including scholarships, grants, studentships, and assistantships. Here are some options and tips to help you secure funding for your PhD:

Scholarships:

Many universities and organisations offer scholarships specifically for international PhD students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, health insurance, and other costs. Some notable examples include:

• Fulbright Scholarships: Offered to international students pursuing masters or PhD studies, these scholarships cover full tuition fees, living stipends, accommodation, airfare, and health insurance.
• Gates Cambridge Scholarship: This scholarship is available for masters and PhD studies and provides a stipend, health insurance, academic development funding, and a family allowance.
• Stanford University Scholarship: This scholarship is for masters and PhD students and offers full tuition fees coverage, a travelling allowance, a living allowance, and academic expense coverage.
• Country-specific scholarships: Some scholarships are tailored for students from specific countries. For example, the Australia Day Foundation offers grants to young Australians studying at UK universities, covering fees and course materials.

Grants:

Grants are another source of funding for international PhD students. These can be offered by governments, private organisations, or research companies. For instance:

• French Ministries: The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR) offer the Eiffel Excellence Scholarships to international students.
• Private-sector research companies: PhD students can apply for funds from private-sector research companies, which can provide hosting and other benefits.
• Co-tutelle scholarships: These scholarships allow PhD students to undertake a research project between two institutions, known as a Joint-PhD.

Studentships and Assistantships:

Studentships and assistantships are popular sources of funding that provide financial support and valuable experience for PhD students. They are more common in STEM subjects and can be found through universities or external organisations:

• Research Council Studentships: International students can obtain funding from Research Council studentships, such as those offered by UK Research and Innovation, which provide money for living expenses and discounted tuition fees.
• University scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarships and grants, so be sure to explore opportunities at your chosen institution or one that interests you.
• PhD Studentships: These can include teaching assistantships and research assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable academic experience.

Country-specific Opportunities:

Different countries have their own unique funding options for international PhD students:

• UK: The UK has a range of funding options, including university scholarships, government loans, and international programs like Horizon Europe, which provides funding for research.
• Canada: The Canadian Government runs a scholarships website with opportunities like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, available to international PhD students.
• New Zealand: International PhD students in New Zealand pay the same fees as local students and can apply for dedicated scholarship schemes, such as the International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS).
• India: India offers a range of funding options, including scholarships and grants from the Indian government, other countries' governments, universities, and private and public organisations.

University-specific Opportunities:

Some universities offer fully-funded PhD programmes or scholarships for international students:

• Yale University: Yale offers a need-based scholarship for undergraduate, masters, and PhD students, with an average value of over $50,000.
• University of Bath: The Department of Mechanical Engineering invites applications for a funded PhD project starting in January 2025.
• Sheffield Hallam University: In collaboration with La Trobe University, Sheffield Hallam University offers fully funded PhD scholarships in sports engineering research.

Additional Tips:

• Timing: Some funding opportunities have specific application deadlines, so be sure to check and mark the important dates on your calendar.
• Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each funding opportunity to ensure you meet the requirements before applying.
• University websites: Most funding opportunities for PhD studentships are advertised on university websites, so regularly check the websites of universities that interest you.
• Supervisor advice: Your potential PhD supervisor may know of funding schemes that are not widely publicised, so don't hesitate to ask for advice and support.

Transitioning from academia to industry

Understanding the Differences

Firstly, it is essential to recognize the differences between academia and industry. In academia, the primary focus is on generating new knowledge and information to enhance understanding, whereas, in industry, the bottom line is profitability. This fundamental difference influences decision-making, priorities, and the overall culture of the organization.

Networking and Building Connections

Building a strong network of industry connections is crucial. Attend local meetups, collaborate with colleagues who have industry ties, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your target industry. Networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and even job opportunities.

Visa Requirements and Immigration Status

For international students, navigating visa requirements and maintaining valid immigration status is essential. Ensure you are well-informed about the applicable visa options, such as the F1 visa, OPT, J1 visa, or diversity visas. Understand the timelines, application processes, and any restrictions or requirements that come with each visa type.

Resume and Job Search Strategies

Tailor your resume for industry jobs, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Be proactive in your job search, and don't rely solely on online applications. Attend industry events, seminars, and social gatherings to network and make yourself known. Stay patient, positive, and persistent in your job hunt.

Adjusting Expectations

Your first industry job may not meet all your expectations or provide the desired level of intellectual stimulation. Use this opportunity to learn about the industry, develop new skills, and analyze the pros and cons. This experience will help you make more informed decisions about your next steps.

Confidence and Adaptability

Confidence is key in the business world. Take responsibility for your actions, be decisive, and embrace a "can-do" mindset. Be prepared to adapt to a different work culture, where individual contributions and accountability are often more pronounced than in academia.

Remember, transitioning from academia to industry is a process, and it may take time to adjust. Stay resilient, seek advice from mentors, and keep an open mind as you navigate this new phase of your career.

Frequently asked questions