University Internships: International Students' Access Explored

Internships are a crucial part of a student's career, offering a chance to explore interests, work styles, and capabilities while gaining industry experience. For international students, internships in the US are highly coveted, providing an opportunity for personal and professional development, as well as practical benefits like visa options and support systems.

To secure internships, international students must navigate visa considerations and understand eligibility. For instance, F-1 visa holders can undertake internships under Curricular Practical Training (CPT), provided they've completed at least a year of full-time study. J-1 visas, sponsored by designated organizations, also facilitate international internships in the US.

Additionally, universities play a pivotal role in helping international students find internships. They offer resources and guidance on applications and visa requirements, enhancing students' chances of success in a competitive job market.

Visa requirements for internships

The type of visa international students need to intern in the US depends on their situation. Here is a breakdown of the two main visas available:

F-1 Visa

Full-time students on an F-1 visa can apply for paid or unpaid internships without additional paperwork. However, they are limited to working 20 hours per week for part-time internships related to their curriculum. With an F-1 visa, students may not work off-campus during the first academic year unless they have permission from their university. Students with this visa can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which is an internship related to their degree program. To be eligible, students must have completed their first year of college. They must also apply for CPT authorisation and obtain an updated I-20 form to begin an internship in America.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) can be applied for during studies (pre-completion OPT) or after completing a program (post-completion OPT). Pre-completion OPT limits working hours to a maximum of 20 hours per week during school but allows full-time hours during academic breaks and annual vacation. Post-completion OPT allows students to work full-time in the US for up to 12 months with approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). With a STEM-related degree, students can request up to two additional years of OPT.

J-1 Visa

Students not enrolled full-time in an academic program can apply for a J-1 visa to work in the US as trainees. With a J-1 visa, students can work for up to 18 months in academic training. Those not enrolled in US programs can apply for a J-1 Intern or Trainee visa.

J-1 visa holders must be enrolled in a foreign college or university or have graduated within the past 12 months. This visa is valid for up to 12 months. Students seeking the J-1 intern visa must receive written approval from their J-1 Responsible Officer at their sponsoring institution, and the internship must be directly related to the student's field of study. The J-1 trainee visa is for those with a degree or professional certificate and at least one year of professional work experience. This visa can be valid for up to 18 months.

Other Visa Requirements

• Being registered as a student
• Having English language proficiency
• Maintaining a valid passport

University career services

Additionally, universities often serve as gateways to internship opportunities. Many universities have partnerships with employers, providing industry exposure and potential internship placements for their students. In some cases, internships may even be built into degree programs as a form of Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

University career fairs and job boards are excellent avenues for connecting with employers and finding internship opportunities. Platforms like Handshake, used by many colleges and universities, can help students find off-campus internships, career fairs, and full-time jobs. Alumni networks can also be leveraged to explore potential internship opportunities.

Overall, university career services play a crucial role in supporting international students' internship searches, providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to navigate the complex process of finding internships in a new country.

Job portals for international students

International students can access several job portals to find internships in the United States. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• LinkedIn: A great place to find internships with major companies, LinkedIn is a professional networking platform. It allows users to connect with professionals, search for jobs, and apply for positions. LinkedIn also provides the option to follow companies and stay updated on their latest job opportunities.
• Handshake: This is a career development site that partners with many US universities and employers. It offers a range of entry-level roles and internships, both on and off-campus. Handshake is commonly used by colleges and universities, making it a great resource for students seeking internships.
• University-specific job platforms: Most universities have their own platforms for finding jobs, such as virtual corkboards with ads for available positions. These can be a great way to find on-campus jobs and internships that are specifically tailored to the university's student body.
• Career centres and job fairs: International students can also find internships by visiting their university's career centre and attending job fairs. These provide opportunities to meet and network with employers and recruiters. Additionally, career centres can offer resume and interview preparation services to help students with their applications.
• Other online job boards: Websites like MyVisaJobs, Indeed, and Glassdoor can be useful for finding internships. However, it is important to be cautious of scams or fake postings on these platforms.
• Networking events: Attending industry conferences, seminars, and networking events can be a great way to meet professionals and learn about potential internship opportunities. Building connections may lead to referrals and internship offers.

While finding an internship as an international student can be challenging, these job portals and resources can help increase your chances of success. It is also important to start your search early and be prepared for a competitive application process.

Networking for success

Networking is a crucial aspect of securing an internship in the US as an international student. Here are some tips to help you network effectively and increase your chances of landing a great internship opportunity:

• Get involved on campus: Join organisations and clubs related to your major as early as possible. This will help you build networking contacts and references, and it's also a great way to practice your English and make friends.
• Take advantage of networking opportunities: Attend career fairs, conferences, and industry events organised by your university or professional organisations. Step out of your comfort zone and engage with your classmates, especially Americans, to improve your networking skills. Americans tend to be more comfortable with people who are friendly and speak up, so don't be afraid to initiate conversations.
• Build relationships with professors and faculty: Impress your professors and other faculty members with your work ethic and commitment to your field of study. They can be great references and mentors during your internship search.
• Develop your elevator pitch: Prepare a short pitch about yourself and your career goals. This will help you introduce yourself confidently when networking with potential employers or mentors.
• Utilise online platforms: Make use of professional networking sites like LinkedIn to connect with people in your industry. Join industry-specific groups and network with students from other institutions who have previously worked at companies you're interested in.
• Start early: Building a strong network takes time, so begin networking as early as possible. This will increase your chances of finding and securing a great internship opportunity.
• Be diligent: Consistently expand your network by connecting with classmates, professors, and professionals in your field. Strong connections can open doors to internships and future career opportunities.
• Seek help from your university: Universities often serve as gateways to internship opportunities. Visit your university's career services office to get guidance on finding internships, understanding visa regulations, and preparing for the application process. They may also have specialised resources and workshops to help international students.
• Join professional associations: Consider joining professional associations related to your field, as they provide access to exclusive internship listings and networking events. However, keep in mind that membership fees and time commitment may be required.
• Attend job fairs: While job fairs can be crowded and competitive, they provide valuable opportunities to meet and network with recruiters and potential employers.
• Use social media: Follow relevant companies and professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to stay updated on internship opportunities. However, be prepared for a high volume of information and competitive opportunities.
• Practice your communication skills: When networking, it's important to speak slowly and clearly. Ask your American friends for feedback on your communication style and don't worry too much about making grammar or vocabulary mistakes. Most people will be impressed by your bilingualism.

Resume-building

An internship is a crucial stepping stone for any student's career. It allows you to explore your interests, work styles, and capabilities while understanding how your chosen industry works. It is also a great way to gain in-demand skills and build your resume. For international students, an internship in the US can be one of the biggest benefits of studying in the country and can be a fantastic way to gain exposure to a new culture and improve your language skills.

Understanding Visa Requirements

First, it is important to understand the visa requirements for international students seeking internships in the US. The type of visa you hold will determine what kind of internship you can apply for.

F-1 Visa

If you are on an F-1 student visa, you are able to apply for internships in the US with assistance from your accredited university or college. Some programs may even require an internship as part of your curriculum, known as Curricular Practical Training (CPT). To qualify for CPT, your internship must be related to your degree program, and you must have completed your first year of university. You will also need to apply for CPT authorization and obtain an updated I-20 form.

With an F-1 visa, you may not work off-campus during the first academic year unless you have permission from your university, but you can accept on-campus employment opportunities.

J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa is a cultural exchange program that allows individuals to come to the US to gain knowledge and experience in their field of study or profession. There are several categories of J-1 visas, including:

• J-1 Training Visa: For young professionals who want to participate in on-the-job training programs. They must have a degree or certificate from a university outside the US and at least one year of related professional experience, or five years of professional experience.
• J-1 Internship Visa: For those who wish to participate in an intern role in the US. To qualify, you must be enrolled full-time at a university outside the US or have graduated within the past 12 months.
• J-1 Camp Counselor Visa: For individuals who want to participate in a US summer camp program. You must be 18 or older and have sufficient proficiency in English.
• J-1 Summer Work Travel Visa: For those who want to work and travel in the US during their summer break from school.
• J-1 Teacher Visa: For individuals who want to teach in the US as part of an exchange program.

Finding Internship Opportunities

Once you understand the visa requirements, you can start looking for internship opportunities. Here are some strategies to help you find the right internship:

• University career services: Many universities and colleges partner with companies to offer internships. Visit your university's career services office to seek guidance on finding internships, understanding visa regulations, and preparing your application.
• Online job boards: Websites like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Indeed.com offer a wide range of internship listings. However, be cautious of scams or fake postings, and always check the legitimacy of the opportunity.
• Networking: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and events to meet professionals in your field. Building connections may lead to referrals and internship opportunities. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to expand your professional network.
• Career fairs: Attend career fairs to meet recruiters and employers in person. This can be a great way to make a good impression and learn about available internships.

Applying for Internships

When applying for internships, it is important to tailor your resume and cover letter to each opportunity. Here are some tips to help you through the application process:

• Start early: The US visa process can be time-consuming, so begin your internship search as early as possible.
• Look for authentic opportunities: Only apply to internships from reputable websites and organizations with experience in US visa procedures.
• Seek paid internships: Paid internships can provide financial security during your stay in the US and enhance your resume.
• Network: Building connections with classmates, professors, and professionals can open doors to internships.
• Prepare for interviews: If you are invited for an interview, practice discussing your skills and how you are a good fit for the company. Be prepared to answer common interview questions and practice your body language and eye contact.

Understanding US Resume Standards

When crafting your resume for US internships, it is important to follow US standards and format. Some universities offer specialized tools and classes to help international students with this process. Here are some key tips:

• Do not include your photo, marital status, or any other personal information beyond your contact details.
• Keep your resume concise and clear, ideally one page or less.
• Focus on your strengths, work experience, and interests relevant to the internship.
• Have others review your resume before applying. Ask for feedback from career counselors, family members, and friends.

By following these steps and staying persistent, you can secure a valuable internship in the US as an international student, setting yourself up for a successful career.

Frequently asked questions