Douglas Olsen
International students can do internships in the US, and it is a popular choice, with around 23,000 international students participating in US internships during their studies. However, it can be a complex process, with visa requirements and competition for places. Students can choose to search for internships independently or with the help of an internship provider. Visa options include the J-1, F-1 with CPT (Curricular Practical Training), and OPT (Optional Practical Training). Students must also be aware of the cultural differences and the unique work culture in America.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in the US as of 2023 | 1 million+ |
| Number of international students participating in US internships | 23,000 |
| Visa options | J-1, F-1 with CPT, OPT |
| Visa requirements | Must be enrolled in a foreign college/university or graduated within the past 12 months |
| Visa application process | Complex |
| Internship search | University career services, internship placement providers, online research |
| Application process | Resume, cover letter, career action plan |
| Competition | High |
| Timing | Many employers start recruiting during the previous fall |
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What You'll Learn
Visa options: J-1, F-1 with CPT, and OPT
International students can gain US work experience through internships, but they must have the right visa. Visa options include J-1, F-1 with CPT, and OPT.
J-1 Visa
The J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to participate in the United States' Exchange Visitor Program (EVP). This program provides opportunities for cultural exchange and career development through internships and training programs. The duration of the program varies depending on the employer, but interns and hospitality trainees can generally stay for up to 12 months.
To secure a J-1 visa, students must find a host company that meets certain requirements, including providing appropriate mentorship and oversight to interns. The internship should be structured and guided, including activities such as classroom training, seminars, and on-the-job training.
F-1 Visa with CPT
The F-1 visa is another common option for international students seeking internships in the US. Students on an F-1 visa must have US work authorization to do an internship, whether virtual or in-person. To obtain this authorization, students typically apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allows for paid or unpaid off-campus training experiences related to their major field of study.
To qualify for CPT, students must complete at least one year of full-time study (two semesters) in the US before being authorized for an off-campus internship. CPT internships are usually limited to 20 hours per week during the school year.
OPT
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a form of work authorization that allows F-1 status students who have graduated to gain practical work experience related to their major field of study. OPT provides 12 months of work authorization, with an additional 24 months available for STEM graduates (known as STEM OPT).
The process of obtaining OPT can take up to several months, so students are encouraged to apply early. To receive OPT authorization, students must file a Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," with US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
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Finding the right internship opportunities
International students can do internships in the US, and there are several ways to find the right internship opportunities. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Start with your university
Many universities and colleges partner with various companies for internships, and these can be valuable resources for international students seeking internship opportunities in the US. Check with your university's career services office to see if they have any partnerships or resources specifically for international students. They can also help you navigate the visa requirements and application process.
Understand visa requirements
Different types of visas are available for international students seeking internships in the US, including the F-1 visa with CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training), and the J-1 visa. Research the requirements and restrictions for each type of visa to determine which one is most suitable for your situation. The J-1 visa, for example, is a cultural exchange program that allows individuals from other countries to intern in the US for up to 12 months.
Use online resources
There are online platforms that can help you find internship opportunities in the US. For instance, MyVisaJobs allows you to search for employers by industry, job title, or employer name, and specifically research employers who are open to hiring international students.
Consider an internship placement provider
Using an internship placement provider can save you time and effort in your search. These providers typically have strong connections with established companies and can help you navigate the logistics of your internship, including visa support and accommodation assistance. However, their services usually come at a cost.
Be proactive and persistent
Start your search early, as internship opportunities can be competitive, and many employers recruit well in advance. Be prepared to face rejections and use them as learning opportunities. Seek feedback from hiring managers, and don't be discouraged by companies with policies against hiring international students. Policies aren't absolute laws, and employers may be open to updating them if they find the right candidate.
Finding the right internship in the US as an international student can be challenging, but with careful planning, persistence, and the use of available resources, you can increase your chances of securing a valuable internship opportunity.
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Application process: cover letters and resumes
The application process for internships in the US for international students can be challenging due to visa restrictions and unfamiliarity with the US job market. However, there are many internship opportunities in the US for international students, and a good application process can increase your chances of success.
Resumes
A resume is a critical component of your application. It should be professional and tailored to the US job market. It should also highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. Here are some tips for creating a strong resume:
- Seek help from career counsellors, professors, seniors, or university advisors to review your resume and provide feedback.
- Utilise the resources provided by your university, such as specialised tools and classes, to create a resume that meets US standards.
- Include any prior work experience, internships, or externships, as these enhance your resume and make it more recognisable to employers.
- Ensure your resume is formatted correctly and free of errors.
- Create a USAJOBS account and upload your resume to increase your visibility to potential employers.
Cover Letters
A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume. It provides a brief overview of your work history, skills, talents, interests, and personal motivations. Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter:
- Address the specific job role and explain how you would be a good organisational and cultural fit.
- Include any extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills relevant to the position or organisation.
- End with a brief summary of why you are an ideal candidate, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity, and thank the hiring manager.
- Have others review your cover letter for feedback and proofreading.
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University partnerships and career services
Career services at universities often offer resources and guidance to help international students find internships and navigate the application process. They may also provide support with visa requirements and work authorisations, which can be complex for international students. It is recommended to utilise these support systems early on to optimise resources and reduce the pressure of navigating the job search and career development alone.
Additionally, some universities may have existing internship programs or partnerships with US-based institutions that offer internships. International students can apply directly to these programs or leverage their university's connections to gain access to internship opportunities. These partnerships can provide a streamlined path to securing an internship in the US.
It is worth noting that certain internships may require specific visas, such as the F1 visa for international students studying in the US or the J-1 visa for those coming solely for an internship. Understanding the visa requirements and eligibility criteria is essential before applying for internships.
University career fairs and events can also be excellent opportunities for international students to connect with potential employers and learn about internship openings. Preparing well for these events, including being aware of company policies on hiring international students, can increase the chances of securing an internship.
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Cultural exchange and personal growth
International students can gain immensely from internships in the US through cultural exchange and personal growth. Internships in the US are highly coveted by international students, with around 23,000 of them participating in internships during their studies. The US is home to tens of millions of businesses, and while some organisations are limited to hiring US citizens, many companies in the US host internship programs specifically for students. International students can gain valuable experience and develop in-demand skills through internships, which can enhance their employability and competitiveness in the job market.
Cultural exchange is a significant aspect of internships in the US for international students. By working in an international environment, interns can immerse themselves in American culture and enhance their cross-cultural understanding. This fosters global competence and enables interns to become more globally-minded citizens.
Personal growth is another crucial benefit of internships in the US for international students. Internships provide a unique opportunity for self-development and the acquisition of soft skills. Interns can learn from their mistakes, seek advice from senior staff, and develop valuable professional skills that will serve them throughout their careers. They can also gain insight into different career paths, helping them make informed decisions about their future endeavours.
Navigating the visa process is often the most challenging aspect of interning in the US for international students. Various visa options, such as the J-1, F-1 with CPT (Curricular Practical Training), and OPT (Optional Practical Training), allow international students to legally undertake internships in the country. The J-1 visa, in particular, is designed as a cultural exchange program, facilitating cultural immersion and exchange for international interns.
Overall, internships in the US offer international students a wealth of opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth. By embracing these experiences, interns can broaden their horizons, enhance their skill sets, and develop a more global perspective, setting themselves up for success in their future endeavours.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can do internships in the US. In fact, there were approximately 23,000 international students participating in US internships during their studies as of 2023.
The most common visas for international students interning in the US are the F1 visa and the J-1 visa. The F1 visa is for international students already studying in the US, while the J-1 visa is for those coming to the US solely for an internship. The J-1 visa is a cultural exchange program that allows individuals from other countries to intern in the US for up to 12 months.
International students can search for internships independently or with the assistance of an internship placement provider. University career services and internship providers can help students find internships, prepare applications, and navigate visa requirements. Students can also check the careers pages of specific organizations for internship programs. Additionally, students can use sites like MyVisaJobs to research employers that can legally hire international students.
Internships in the US provide international students with the opportunity to gain professional experience, build in-demand skills, and enhance their resumes. They also offer cultural immersion and a chance to develop cross-cultural understanding. Additionally, internships can lead to permanent positions or provide connections for future career opportunities.
