Lori Meadows
International students in the US on an F-1 visa are permitted to work, but they require a work permit. To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the US as an international student, one must first gain admission to an immigration-authorized school that is approved to enroll non-immigrant alien students. Once admitted, the student applies for a student visa from their home country. After arriving in the US, international students can apply for work during school through CPT or post-graduation through OPT.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | Requires an I-20 form and a letter of admission from an immigration-authorized school in the US |
| Work Permit | Needed to work in the US |
| Enrollment | Requires submission of passport, bank letter or affidavit of support, and high school graduation diploma |
| School | Must be authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students |
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What You'll Learn
International students need a work permit to work in the US
International students who want to study in the US will generally need to obtain a student visa. There are two types of non-immigrant visas available for this purpose: the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa. To be eligible for either visa, students must be enrolled in an academic, language-training, or vocational program at a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program.
Students with an F-1 visa are allowed to work in the US, but only under specific conditions and in compliance with the rules and restrictions established by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). On-campus employment is the most easily accessible type of work for F-1 visa holders, and it does not require USCIS approval. However, on-campus job opportunities are often scarce at most educational institutions.
Off-campus employment for F-1 visa holders must be directly related to their field of study and must be authorized in advance by the Designated School Official and the USCIS. In addition, F-1 students must demonstrate their ability to cover school and living expenses before entering the US and are not expected to rely on off-campus work. The USCIS will only authorize off-campus employment in situations of severe economic hardship that occur after the student has enrolled in an academic program and maintained an F-1 status for a full academic year, or in emergency circumstances as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
F-1 students can engage in off-campus employment on a full-time or part-time basis, but they must maintain their status as full-time students when school is in session. This authorization is valid for one year, after which students must reapply for continued employment authorization at least six months before the authorization expires.
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Requirements for a student visa
International students who wish to study in the USA must obtain a student visa. There are two types of non-immigrant visa categories for students: the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa. Here are the requirements for obtaining a student visa:
Institution Certification
The college or university where you plan to study must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP) Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The institution must be authorised by the US government to accept foreign students.
Enrollment Status
You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution while your academic term is in session.
English Language Proficiency
You must meet the required English language proficiency score of the institution you are attending. Alternatively, you must be enrolled in courses that will help improve your English proficiency.
Financial Resources
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds available to finance your studies and living expenses during your stay in the US. This includes tuition fees and daily living costs.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for travel to the United States and remain valid for at least six months after your program completion date. This ensures that you have valid proof of identification and citizenship during your studies in the US.
Nonimmigrant Visa Application
You need to complete and submit the Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160. This form requires you to provide personal information, educational background, and other relevant details.
Visa Interview
Most visa applicants are required to attend a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate. During the interview, you must confirm your intention to return to your home country after completing your studies. You also need to demonstrate that you meet the requirements for the visa and provide any necessary documentation.
Fees
There is a non-refundable visa application fee, which must be paid before the interview. If your visa is approved, there may also be a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
It is important to note that these requirements are essential for obtaining a student visa and gaining permission to study in the United States as an international student.
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OPT and CPT visa 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.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an alternative work/study, internship, co-op, or other types of required practical training that a sponsoring employer offers through cooperative agreements with your college or university. CPT is primarily for internships before you graduate, and you can only take part in CPT if the work opportunity is required by your academic program. Your employer will have an agreement with your school and may offer part-time or full-time work. CPT must be completed before you graduate from your program. If you choose to work full-time for 12 months on CPT, you will lose your eligibility for OPT. However, working part-time on CPT won't disqualify you from OPT.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets you seek employment before or after you complete your degree. OPT can be completed before or after you graduate, and you can work under OPT for up to 12 months at each education level. For example, you may have 12 months of OPT at the bachelor's level and another 12 months at the master's level. You can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Otherwise, you can work full-time. Using OPT before graduation is known as Pre-Completion OPT, and working after is Post-Completion OPT. STEM majors may also be eligible for a STEM OPT extension, allowing them to extend their Post-Completion OPT for up to 24 months. To be eligible for OPT, you must have been a full-time student for a minimum of one year and seek a job related to your major or course of study.
If you wish to maintain your F-1 visa status after completing your academic program or OPT, you can request to extend the period to bridge the gap between the end of your F-1 status and the start of your H-1B status. The H-1B status is a temporary employment authorization that allows you to work in the US for up to six years.
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International student application process
International students on an F-1 visa studying in the USA can pursue a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). While specific requirements may vary by state and institution, here is a general overview of the application process for international students aiming to become CNAs in the USA:
Step 1: Research and Eligibility
Before initiating the application process, international students should thoroughly research the requirements and eligibility criteria for CNA programmes in their state. This includes understanding the specific guidelines, educational prerequisites, and any restrictions for international students. It is essential to consult official sources, such as state government websites or the websites of accredited CNA programmes, to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.
Step 2: Choosing a Programme
The next step is to identify accredited CNA programmes that align with the student's goals and meet the state's requirements. Students can explore various options, including community colleges, vocational schools, or dedicated CNA training institutions. It is important to consider factors such as programme duration, cost, and the reputation of the institution.
Step 3: Meeting Prerequisites
Most CNA programmes have specific prerequisites that must be fulfilled before enrolment. Common prerequisites may include a high school diploma or its equivalent, a minimum age requirement, and, in some cases, prior healthcare-related experience or education. International students should carefully review and meet these prerequisites to be eligible for enrolment.
Step 4: Application and Documentation
The application process typically involves submitting an application form, along with relevant documentation. International students may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of their student visa status, transcripts from their previous education, and, in some cases, language proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS). It is essential to carefully review the required documents and ensure they are submitted by any specified deadlines.
Step 5: Completing the Programme
Once enrolled in a CNA programme, international students will undergo a combination of classroom instruction and clinical training. The programme will cover essential knowledge and skills related to patient care, medical terminology, basic nursing procedures, and more. Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be prepared to take the CNA certification exam.
Step 6: Certification and Work Authorization
After completing a CNA programme, students can apply to take the CNA certification exam. Passing this exam leads to obtaining CNA certification, which is a requirement to practice as a CNA in the USA. International students should also ensure they have the necessary work authorization, such as a work permit or employment visa, to seek employment as a CNA in the USA.
It is important to note that the above steps provide a general framework, and specific variations may exist across states and institutions. International students are advised to consult with their college's enrollment counselors, immigration advisors, or international student services offices for personalized guidance based on their unique circumstances.
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English-language copies of qualifications
International students applying to universities in the United States are often required to provide English-language copies of their qualifications. This is to ensure that their academic records are accurately evaluated and their English proficiency can be assessed. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for preparing English-language copies of qualifications:
English Translations:
If the native language of your qualifications is not English, you must submit official copies of your academic records, including transcripts and certificates, in their original language. These documents must be accompanied by certified English translations. Ensure that the translations are accurate and completed by a certified translator.
Academic Records:
Provide official copies of academic records from all levels of education, including secondary school, pre-university programs, colleges, and universities attended. These records should be sent directly from the educational institutions or testing agencies. Include external examination results, such as GCSE, IGCSE, IB, A-Level, or country-specific examinations.
English Proficiency Examinations:
Many universities require proof of English proficiency through examinations. Common tests accepted by universities include TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE Academic, and the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section. Check with your desired university for specific test requirements and minimum scores needed for admission.
Country-Specific Requirements:
English proficiency requirements may vary based on your country of study. Some universities have specific country requirements, so refer to the institution's guidelines to determine if they require TOEFL, IELTS, or other English proficiency test scores for your country.
Waivers and Exemptions:
In certain circumstances, international applicants may be exempt from submitting English proficiency scores. Exemptions may include holding a degree from the university you're applying to, possessing a bachelor's degree completed entirely in the United States or a qualifying Anglophone country, or being a native English speaker from countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada (except Quebec).
Submission Instructions:
Follow the university's guidelines for submitting English-language copies of qualifications. Some universities require electronic submissions, while others may accept paper copies. Ensure that you provide all necessary documentation, including translations, within the specified deadlines.
It is important to carefully review the specific requirements of the universities you are applying to, as they may have additional or unique requirements for international students.
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Frequently asked questions
International students need to submit copies of their passport, a bank letter certifying funds or an affidavit of support, and certified English copies of their high school graduation diploma. Upon approval, they will receive an I-20 form and a letter of admission, which they can use to apply for a student visa from their home country.
Yes, international students need a work permit to work in the USA. However, OPT (Optional Practical Training) is not necessary as becoming a CNA is not considered "working in your field of study".
Yes, Access Careers is a school that is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students in their CNA programs. They offer a Nursing Assistant | Nurse Aide (CNA) Medical Assistant Hybrid Program.
