Savanna Hoffman
International students in the US are typically admitted on non-immigrant visas, such as the F visa for college, university, and school students, or the M visa for students attending vocational programs. These visas do not provide a direct path to permanent residency, but there are several ways international students can extend their stay in the US after graduation. For example, students can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and work in the US for up to 12 months, with STEM students eligible for a 24-month extension. Alternatively, international students can apply for an H-1B visa, which requires employer sponsorship and allows individuals to live and work in the US for up to six years.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa type | F visa, M visa, H-1B visa, EB-2 visa, EB-3 visa |
| Visa requirements | Proof of enrollment, valid passport, proof of financial means, intent to depart the US after completing studies |
| Visa fees | Non-refundable visa application fee, visa issuance fee |
| Visa validity | F-1 visa holders can stay for 60 days after graduation |
| Visa extensions | OPT, STEM OPT, H-1B visa |
| OPT requirements | Form I-20, Form I-765, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), enrolled for at least a year |
| OPT validity | 12 months, 24 months for STEM graduates |
| OPT work type | Part-time (minimum 20 hours/week) or full-time (40 hours/week) |
| H-1B visa requirements | Bachelor's, master's or doctorate degree, employer sponsorship |
| H-1B visa validity | Maximum of six years, usually granted for three years with a possible three-year extension |
| Other benefits of international students | Contribute to the economy ($43.8 billion in 2023-2024), support jobs (375,000+ in 2023-2024), subsidize costs for domestic students, increase domestic student enrollment, enhance graduate programs and research efforts |
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What You'll Learn
The economic benefits of international students
International students in the US contribute significantly to the economy, with a positive impact on communities, research, and innovation. During the 2023-2024 academic year, international students contributed a record-breaking $43.8 billion to the US economy, supporting more than 375,000 jobs. This figure is even more impressive when considering that it is the third straight year of recorded increases following the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
International students' spending and tuition fees are a vital source of revenue for US colleges and universities. This revenue allows institutions to increase domestic student enrollment, improve graduate programs, and enhance research efforts. International students typically pay full tuition rates, and their contributions can subsidize the cost of attendance for domestic students. For instance, a 2015 study found that international students brought $9 billion to public universities, accounting for 28% of their total revenue.
The presence of international students also has a positive impact on the job market. For every three international students, one US job is created or supported. This is especially evident in community colleges, where international students' economic contributions have been increasing year after year. In the 2023-2024 academic year, they contributed $2 billion and supported over 8,400 jobs, reflecting a significant increase from the previous year.
International students are also crucial in driving research and development, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. They help fill job openings in critical STEM sectors, advance national security, and boost entrepreneurship and innovation. The US benefits from the talent and expertise that international students bring, enhancing the country's competitiveness in the global marketplace.
The economic impact of international students extends beyond their time as students. Many international graduates choose to stay in the US long-term, contributing further to the economy by creating jobs, starting new businesses, and raising wages for US-born workers. The US benefits from the skills and knowledge of these graduates, who often pursue careers in high-tech industries and become entrepreneurs.
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Student visas and their limitations
International students in the US are typically admitted on F or M visas. These are "'nonimmigrant' visas, meaning they do not provide a direct route to permanent residency. This creates challenges for graduates who wish to remain in the US after completing their studies.
F Visas
The F visa is the most common type of visa for international students in the US, covering college, university, high school, and elementary students. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in an academic program, language-training program, or vocational program. They must also be enrolled full-time, be proficient in English or working towards English proficiency, have sufficient funds to support themselves, and maintain a residence in their home country with no intention of giving it up. F-1 students may not work off-campus during their first academic year but may accept on-campus employment. After the first year, they may engage in three types of off-campus employment:
- Off-campus employment due to economic hardship or special relief
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): This allows students to work in their major field of study. It can be part-time (minimum 20 hours per week) or full-time (40 hours per week). Students must apply for OPT and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before starting work. The process can take up to 90 days, and students must have been enrolled for at least a year. F-1 students who graduate with a STEM degree may be eligible for a 24-month OPT extension.
M Visas
The M visa is for students in vocational or other non-academic programs (except language training). M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies, and it must be related to their area of study and authorized by a Designated School Official.
Limitations
The main limitation of both F and M visas is that they do not provide a direct path to permanent residency in the US. Students must maintain a residence abroad and cannot remain in the US after their studies without switching to a different visa status. Additionally, there are restrictions on employment for F-1 students during their first academic year, and any off-campus employment for F-1 and M-1 students must be related to their field of study.
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OPT and EAD employment opportunities
International students in the US on an F-1 visa have the opportunity to gain work experience in their major field of study through Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a type of work authorization that allows students to work part-time (a minimum of 20 hours per week) or full-time (40 hours per week). To be eligible for OPT, students must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year at a college or university certified by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
The process of applying for OPT involves several steps and can take up to 90 days or more, so it is important to plan ahead. Students should first speak with their Designated School Official (DSO) to understand the requirements and gather the necessary information for their application. The key document required is Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," which must be submitted along with the OPT application. Additionally, students must have their Form I-20, or Certificate of Eligibility, with an OPT recommendation from their DSO.
Once the OPT application is approved, students will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card as proof of their work authorization. The EAD card is valid for a 12-month period, and there is a fee of $520 for a paper application or $470 for an online application, paid by the student. It is important to note that OPT employment must be directly related to the student's major area of study.
For students studying in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), there is an option to extend their OPT period. The STEM OPT extension allows students to stay and work in the US for an additional 24 months after graduation. To be eligible for the extension, students must apply before the expiration of their initial OPT period. The STEM OPT extension provides valuable opportunities for students to gain practical work experience in their field and build a pathway towards their dream jobs.
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Applying for a green card
International students in the US are typically admitted on "nonimmigrant" visas, which do not provide a direct route to permanent residency. However, there are several pathways for international students to remain in the US after graduation, such as applying for a work visa or a Green Card.
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows you to live and work permanently in the United States. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Green Card:
- Determine your eligibility: Before initiating the application process, it is essential to determine your eligibility. US immigration laws offer various pathways to apply for a Green Card.
- Identify your eligibility category: Different eligibility categories may require distinct forms and processes. For example, you may need to determine whether you need a petition, and if so, who will file it for you. In some cases, you may be eligible to file for yourself.
- Complete the necessary forms: Most applicants will need to fill out at least two forms, including an immigrant petition and a Green Card application (Form I-485).
- Choose the appropriate process: Depending on your situation, you will need to select either adjustment of status or consular processing.
- Submit your application: After ensuring that all the required forms are completed and submitted, send your application for processing.
- Biometrics appointment: As part of the application process, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature.
- Attend an interview: You may be invited for an interview as part of the evaluation of your application.
- Receive a decision: After completing all the necessary steps, you will be informed of the decision regarding your Green Card application.
- Update your address: If your address changes after submitting your application, promptly update it with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure your documents are delivered to the correct address.
It is important to note that the Green Card application process can vary depending on individual circumstances, and there may be additional steps or requirements. The USCIS website provides comprehensive information on the Green Card application process, eligibility requirements, and other related details.
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The social and cultural impact of international students
International students in the US face several social and cultural challenges, which can impact their academic performance and personal well-being. One of the most significant challenges is the language barrier, which affects everything from understanding lectures to participating in class discussions and social interactions. This can be particularly difficult due to the use of idioms and metaphors, which may not make sense without an explanation of the cultural context.
To address these challenges, US universities have implemented language assistance programs, peer mentoring, and community engagement initiatives. These programs aim to facilitate cultural exchange, enhance academic achievement, and create an inclusive environment for international students. For instance, during 'Freshers Week', US universities aim to boost student integration and ease the 'settling in' process for international students. Additionally, lecturers can incorporate discussions on native culture into their classes, helping international students gain a better understanding of their new surroundings.
International students also face challenges in social integration due to cultural differences in communication styles, social norms, and interpersonal relationships. These differences can make it difficult for international students to connect with their American peers, leading to feelings of isolation and homesickness. However, the creation of friendships and social networks is crucial for providing students with an identity in foreign surroundings.
From an economic perspective, international students have a significant impact on the US economy and local communities. They contribute financially through full tuition rates, supporting jobs, and raising wages for US-born workers. International students also bring diversity and a global perspective to US campuses, enriching the educational experience for all students and enhancing the country's competitiveness in the global marketplace.
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Frequently asked questions
International students generally need an F visa or an M visa. These are "nonimmigrant" visas, meaning they do not provide a direct route to permanent residency.
International students typically pay full tuition rates, providing valuable revenue that benefits domestic students. A 2015 study found that international students contributed $9 billion to public universities, 28% of their overall total revenue.
Students on an F-1 visa are usually only allowed to stay in the US for 60 days after graduation. However, they can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in the US for up to 12 months. STEM students can request an additional 24 months.
International students can pursue various pathways to extend their stay and obtain permanent residency or citizenship. They can apply for an H-1B visa, which allows them to live and work in the US for up to six years. They can also explore employment-based green cards, such as the EB-2 and EB-3 visas, with the support of their employers.
