Janice Lozano
International students can apply for summer internships in the US, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and research. The type of visa required depends on whether the student is already studying in the US or will be travelling to the US specifically for the internship. Students already in the US on an F-1 visa are eligible for internships under Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which must be related to their degree and completed after their first year of study. Students travelling to the US for an internship will need a J-1 visa, which is valid for 12 months and requires sponsorship from an accredited educational institution or non-profit.
Characteristics and Values of Summer Internships for International Students
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa type | F-1, J-1 |
| Visa requirements | Passport, application fees, proof of self-support, proof of enrollment in school |
| Visa timing | Visas typically approved 120 days before start date; entry allowed 30 days or less prior to start date |
| Work authorization | CPT, OPT, AT |
| Timing of internship search | Start as early as possible; many employers start recruiting during the previous fall |
| Networking | Career fairs, workshops, on- and off-campus events |
| Company policies | Some companies may have a policy against hiring international students; check if they have sponsored students previously |
| Student status | Must be enrolled in school or have graduated within the last 12 months |
| Work location | On-campus vs. off-campus; F-1 visa holders may not work off-campus during the first academic year without permission |
| Work hours | F-1 visa holders can work 20 hours per week during semesters and 40 hours per week during the summer |
| Duration of internship | J-1 Intern Visa: 12 months; J-1 Trainee Visa: 18 months |
| Work type | Cannot do casual work; no more than 20% clerical work |
| Post-internship | Must leave the US within 30 days of completing the internship; cannot return to the US for 2 years |
What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for international students
United Kingdom
Non-UK nationals intending to undertake internships in the UK must secure a student visa. This involves familiarising oneself with the specific visa requirements and the application process, which includes providing essential documents such as proof of acceptance to an educational institution, financial evidence, and any other documentation mandated by UK authorities. EU citizens intending to undertake internships in the UK post-Brexit must obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which serves as proof of a job offer from a UK employer acting as their sponsor. This is a mandatory requirement for the Temporary Worker-Government Authorised Exchange Visa (T5).
United States
International students seeking summer internships in the US typically require a J-1 visa, a non-immigrant visa category facilitating cultural exchange. To obtain this visa, individuals must first secure an internship offer and then initiate the visa application process. The J-1 visa falls under the "Intern" and "Trainee" categories, applying to current students or recent graduates within the past 12 months who wish to intern in their field of study. Additionally, F-1 visa students can undertake internships through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which requires the internship to be related to their degree and the completion of at least two full-time semesters.
Australia
International students pursuing internships in Australia may consider the following visa options:
- Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462 or subclass 417): This visa is for individuals who want to work and holiday in Australia for up to a year. It encourages cultural exchange and is subject to specific eligibility criteria, such as educational requirements.
- Occupational Trainee Visa: This visa enables overseas students to work in a company related to their field of study for a limited period.
- Australia Student Visa: This visa permits international students to work full-time during breaks or after graduation or engage in internships for up to 40 hours every two weeks throughout the semester.
Boosting International Student Enrollment: Strategies for Success
You may want to see also
Understanding work authorization rules
International students with an F1 visa in the US are permitted to work off-campus in optional practical training (OPT) status during and after their degree. However, this requires prior authorization from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the school's International Student Office. Students can apply for OPT after being enrolled for at least nine months, but they cannot begin employment until they have been enrolled for at least a year and have received their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is another off-campus employment option for F1 students. To qualify, the work experience must be integral to the degree or a requirement for a course for which academic credit is awarded. CPT can be issued by the school and does not need to be authorized by the government, although it must still comply with federal regulations. Students must have been enrolled full-time for a year to be eligible for CPT, except for graduate programs that require immediate CPT. CPT employment can be full or part-time, and there is no limit to how long a student can work. However, if a student works full-time on CPT for 12 months or more, they are not eligible for OPT.
F1 students may not work off-campus during their first academic year, but they may accept on-campus employment. After the first year, F1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment: severe economic hardship, STEM OPT extension, and CPT. USCIS will only authorize off-campus employment in cases of severe economic hardship after a student has been enrolled in an academic program for at least a year, or in emergent circumstances as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Emergent circumstances include world events such as natural disasters, wars, and financial crises.
F1 students are eligible to receive authorization to work full or part-time on campus during the summer vacation. They may also be eligible to apply for a work authorization based on an internship with an international organization.
To successfully secure a summer internship, international students should start their search early and understand the work authorization rules to assist employers in navigating the legal guidelines.
International Students: Converting Status to Stay and Work Abroad
You may want to see also
Networking and career fairs
On-Campus Fairs and Events
Many universities host career fairs and networking events on campus, often in collaboration with specific industries or sectors. For example, Yale University's Office of Career Strategy (OCS) hosts various industry networking events and information sessions where students can meet employer representatives and learn about their organizations. These events are a great way to learn about internship opportunities and make connections with potential employers. It is recommended to dress in business casual attire for these events.
Off-Campus Fairs and Events
In addition to on-campus fairs, there are also off-campus career fairs and networking events that are open to students from multiple universities. For instance, the Engineering Career Fair Collaborative is open to students from Yale, Harvard, Boston University, Olin College, Tufts, and MIT. These events provide a broader range of opportunities to connect with employers from various organizations.
Preparation
To make the most of career fairs and networking events, it is important to be prepared. Research the companies and organizations that will be present, and practice common interview questions. Be ready to discuss your experiences, skills, and why you are interested in specific internships. It is also beneficial to have an up-to-date resume and cover letter, as some organizations offer structured internship programs for international students. Additionally, understanding the legal requirements related to work authorization, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) regulations, is crucial.
Visa Considerations
As an international student, visa considerations are an important factor when applying for internships. Most international students in the US hold an F-1 visa, which allows for Optional Practical Training (OPT) during or after their academic program. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is also an option for F-1 visa holders, allowing for internships related to their degree during the school year or summer vacation. However, it is important to note that not all companies understand the work authorization rules for international students, so being well-versed in the process is essential.
Company Policies
Some companies may have policies against hiring international students, but it is worth checking if they have sponsored students previously, as policies are not absolute. Employers may be open to updating their policies, especially if they find a strong candidate. It is beneficial to be well-informed and steer the conversation when encountering unknown individuals at career fairs.
Scholarship Tax Rules for International Students
You may want to see also
Resume and cover letter preparation
Resume Preparation:
- Research standard resume practices for the region or country you are applying to. Resume formats and expectations vary across the world. For instance, some countries request a translated version of your resume in their primary language.
- Include your contact information, qualifications, and work experiences. Ensure you represent all your strengths, skills, and experiences, including paid and unpaid work, extracurricular activities, and volunteering experience.
- Use action words and provide concrete examples to articulate your skills. For instance, if you interned at an IT desk, mention if you served a high volume of customers or made significant contributions.
- Focus on cross-cultural and technical skills to demonstrate your ability to work in another country. For example, highlight languages you speak and experiences where you collaborated with international teams.
- Include academic information from the last 2-3 years. If you are a first-year student, it is acceptable to include high school and related experiences.
- Provide your school name, major, and GPA. You may also list any scholarships, awards, or accolades received.
- Ensure your resume is free of typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. Ask a friend or family member to review it, and consider seeking feedback from your university's career services department.
Cover Letter Preparation:
- Include a submission date on the cover letter but not on the resume or references.
- Use standard business salutations (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.) if you are sure of the recipient's gender, followed by their last name. If you are unsure of their gender and know their full name, use their full name. If you don't know their name, address it to the "Hiring Manager(s]." Close the letter with "Sincerely," followed by your name.
- Avoid flowery language or words that are not commonly used in a professional context.
- A cover letter should complement your resume by providing additional context and highlighting why you are the best candidate for the position. It is your opportunity to tell your story and explain why you are a good fit.
- Like your resume, ensure your cover letter is free of errors and inconsistencies.
Remember, the resume and cover letter are essential components of your application. They create a first impression and can help open doors to internship opportunities.
International Student Discounts: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Interview preparation
International students can apply for summer internships, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and research. The first step is to ensure you are eligible and authorized to work in your desired country as an international student. For instance, in the US, most international students hold an F-1 visa, which allows for optional practical training (OPT) during or after their academic program.
Now, onto interview preparation. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your interview:
Know the Company
It is important to research the company and demonstrate your knowledge and interest. Learn about the company's mission, vision, and goals. This will help you answer questions and show your enthusiasm for the role. Visit the company's website, read recent news stories and press releases, and check company reviews and Q&As.
Prepare Answers to Common Questions
Practice answering common interview questions out loud. Be ready to discuss your experiences, skills, and reasons for your interest in the specific internship. Prepare for behavioral questions, such as describing a time you failed and how you responded, and think about how your skills align with the internship requirements.
Dress Appropriately
Consider the company culture and dress code. For more traditional or conservative industries, a formal outfit may be expected, while a more casual option could be suitable for creative or startup environments.
Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Asking thoughtful questions during the interview demonstrates your enthusiasm and preparation. Prepare questions that show your interest in the company and the role, and avoid focusing on pay or benefits.
Practice Confidence
Confidence is key in interviews. One way to build confidence is to practice answering questions and visualizing successful responses. Remember to showcase a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Follow Up
After the interview, send a thank-you email to your interviewer. Express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role.
International Students: NIH Grant Eligibility and Opportunities
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can apply for summer internships. However, they need to have the proper visas and work authorizations.
The type of visa depends on whether you are a student in the US or coming to the US only for the internship. If you are studying in the US, you need an F-1 visa, which allows for extracurricular training (CPT) while you are a student and OPT after graduation. If you are not a student in the US, you need a J-1 visa, which is a sponsored visa designed for students and trainees.
To apply for an F-1 visa, you must first apply to a school and receive your I-20 – a Student and Exchange Visitor Program document. You must show that you can support yourself while in the US and that you are enrolled in school. After a full school year and enrollment in at least 6 credit hours, F-1 visa holders are eligible for internships, which fall under the category of Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
To obtain a J-1 visa, complete form IAP-66 and then apply for the J-1. J-1 visa holders must be currently enrolled as students or have graduated within 12 months from a higher education setting outside of the United States. There are two types of J-1 visas: Intern and Trainee. Intern visas allow students to intern for 12 months, while Trainee visas allow for 18 months but require 5 years of work experience outside the US.
