Lana Oconnell
International students in the US on an F1 visa are permitted to work off-campus in optional practical training (OPT) status during and after their degree. However, job hunting as an international student can be challenging, as employers may be hesitant due to visa requirements and cultural differences. Before beginning your job search, it is crucial to understand your visa restrictions and eligibility for working in the US. Additionally, it is beneficial to identify companies that are open to hiring international students and to utilise resources such as the International Student Job Center and Resume Writing Center. When applying, ensure your resume is tailored to the job description, highlighting your unique skills and passions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa type | F-1 Visa (Academic Student), M-1 Visa (Vocational Student) |
| Visa requirements | Must be enrolled in an academic, language-training, or vocational program; school must be approved/authorized by the US government to accept foreign students |
| Work eligibility | Part-time (up to 20 hours/week), full-time (30+ hours/week), internships (temporary training opportunities) |
| Job search tips | Understand personal qualities and skills, research employers thoroughly, format resume correctly, consult school's career center |
| Additional resources | International Student Job Center, International Student Resume Writing Center, Handshake |
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What You'll Learn
Understanding visa requirements and restrictions
Visa Types for International Students:
The US offers several types of visas for international students, with the most common being the F and M visas:
- F-1 Visa (Academic Student): The F-1 visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies at accredited academic institutions. F-1 students must be enrolled in a program leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate, and their school must be authorized by the US government to accept foreign students. F-1 visa holders may accept on-campus employment during their first academic year and can engage in specific off-campus employment opportunities after their first year.
- M-1 Visa (Vocational Student): The M-1 visa is for full-time international students pursuing vocational or non-academic studies. M-1 visa holders are typically not allowed to work off-campus but may be eligible for on-campus employment.
Visa Requirements:
To obtain an F-1 or M-1 visa, international students must meet certain requirements:
- Enrollment in an approved school: The student must be accepted into a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and approved by the US government to accept foreign students.
- Valid passport: Students must have a valid passport from their country of citizenship.
- Financial support: Students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their tuition and living expenses during their stay in the US.
- English proficiency: Students must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses to achieve English proficiency.
- Non-immigrant intent: Students must demonstrate their intention to return to their home country after completing their studies.
Visa Restrictions:
It is important to understand the restrictions associated with student visas:
- Work limitations: F-1 visa holders are restricted to on-campus employment during their first academic year. Off-campus employment must be related to their area of study and authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS. M-1 visa holders generally cannot work off-campus.
- Time restrictions: Student visas are typically valid for the duration of the academic program. Any extension or change of status must be applied for and approved by USCIS.
- Enrollment requirements: Students must maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress to remain in valid visa status.
Additional Considerations:
- Social Security Number: Only aliens with permission from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to work in the US can apply for a Social Security Number.
- Visa processing: The visa application process may include an interview with a consular officer, fingerprint scans, and potential administrative processing. A visa issuance fee may also be required for certain nationalities.
- Visa sponsorship: Some employers may be hesitant to hire international students due to the complexities of visa requirements. It is essential to start the job search early and be prepared to educate employers about your specific visa situation.
Understanding these visa requirements and restrictions is vital for international students seeking job opportunities in the US. By familiarizing themselves with the rules and regulations, students can make informed decisions about their job search and increase their chances of securing suitable employment.
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Knowing your eligibility and rights
As an international student in the US, it is important to know your eligibility and rights when it comes to working in the country. The type of student visa you hold will determine your requirements and eligibility for working in the US. For instance, students with an F-1 visa can only work for a maximum of 20 hours per week on campus while their academic term is in session. This restriction is usually lifted during semester breaks if you are not enrolled in classes.
F-1 visa holders are not allowed to work off-campus during their first academic year but may accept on-campus employment. After the first academic year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) OPT. To work off-campus, F-1 students must obtain prior authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS will only authorize off-campus employment in cases of severe economic hardship or emergent circumstances, such as natural disasters or financial crises. F-1 students can apply for post-completion OPT, but the application must be received by USCIS before the completion of their degree.
M-1 visa holders are classified as Vocational Students and are allowed to work off-campus, but the employment must be related to their area of study and authorized by the DSO and USCIS. Generally, only aliens with permission from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to work can apply for a Social Security number.
International students can seek guidance from their school's career center or International Student Office to understand their work eligibility and visa status. They can also use resources like Handshake to filter and identify companies that offer visa sponsorship. It is essential to know your rights and the rules and regulations of your specific situation, including visa requirements, deadlines, and costs, to increase your confidence when applying for jobs in the US.
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Resume formatting and transferable skills
When applying for jobs as an international student in the US, it is important to familiarise yourself with the US job market, which may differ from that of your home country. It is also crucial to understand your visa requirements and restrictions, as employers may be hesitant to hire international students due to complexities and misunderstandings concerning visas. It is your responsibility to provide this information to potential employers.
Resume Formatting
When creating a resume for US employers, it is important to follow a US format, which may differ significantly from resume formats in other countries. Here are some key considerations for formatting your resume:
- Length: Standard US resumes are typically only one page long for undergraduates, while CVs can be one and a half to two pages.
- Personal Information: Include a page header with your full name, cell phone number, and email. You may also include your home address, city, personal website, or LinkedIn profile link.
- Education: Provide the names, locations, and dates attended for the schools you have attended. List your degree, area of study, and any relevant coursework, awards, or honours. If you are still pursuing your degree, list this first, followed by any other degrees in reverse chronological order. Avoid listing high school or unnecessary educational information.
- Relevant Experience: Include your most relevant past work experiences, such as internships and jobs. If you have limited work experience, you can also highlight extracurricular activities, awards, and strong references.
- Skills and Interests: Feature technical skills applicable to the role you are applying for. You can also add any international experiences, languages, and hobbies if space permits.
- Format: Organise your resume with a reverse-chronological format, putting your most recent experiences and qualifications first.
Transferable Skills
Transferable skills are those that you have gained through various experiences, such as education, extracurricular activities, internships, or previous jobs, and can be applied to the position you are applying for. When crafting your resume, focus on highlighting these transferable skills that make you a uniquely qualified candidate for the position. Here are some tips for identifying and showcasing your transferable skills:
- Identify Your Skills: Make a list of your personal qualities, including both strengths and weaknesses. Think about your educational background, work experience, leadership roles, and any extracurricular activities that have helped you develop valuable skills.
- Tailor Your Resume: Review the job description and identify the skills and qualifications that the employer is looking for. Tailor your resume to highlight the transferable skills that are most relevant to the position.
- Provide Examples: In your resume and cover letter, provide specific examples of how you have applied your transferable skills in previous experiences. This will demonstrate to employers how your skills can contribute to the role.
- Show Passion and Interest: In your cover letter, expand on select experiences and make connections to the position, showing your passion and interest in the role, career field, and employer. This will help you stand out to employers and improve your chances of securing the job.
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Finding the right companies
Start with your university career services
Your university's career services department will likely have experience helping international students find jobs in the US. They can provide guidance, support, and resources to help you navigate the job market. They may also have connections with potential employers and can help you build a professional network. Take advantage of their expertise and set up a meeting with a career coach to discuss your specific needs and goals. Attend career fairs, talk to recruiters, and build relationships that could lead to potential interviews. Networking is key, so don't be afraid to reach out to alumni, professors, and even parents of your American friends.
Utilize online platforms
Several online platforms cater specifically to international students seeking jobs in the US. These include Handshake, LinkedIn, CareerShift, MyVisaJobs, and International Student Careers. MyVisaJobs.com, for example, helps identify companies with a history of sponsoring international employees, making it easier to narrow down job opportunities that could lead to long-term employment. LinkedIn is not only a job search platform but also a networking tool that allows you to connect with professionals, alumni, and recruiters who can offer valuable advice and insights. Other platforms like Glassdoor provide transparency about company cultures and compensations, helping you assess if a company is a good fit for you.
Be flexible and start early
Don't limit yourself to a specific company, role, or location. Being flexible provides you with more options. Start your job search early, as it may take longer to find a company that sponsors work visas. Additionally, take the time to gain relevant experience through side projects, on-campus jobs, internships, or volunteer work. This will help you stand out to potential employers.
Research and target companies that hire international students
Not all companies are willing to hire international students, so it's important to target those that do. Use resources like myvisajobs.com, career services, and alumni networks to find these companies. The H-1B Employer Data Hub, hosted by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), provides a detailed database of companies that petition for H-1B visas, allowing you to identify employers with high approval rates for visa petitions.
Understand the visa requirements
The type of student visa you have will determine your requirements and eligibility for working in the US. For example, students with an F-1 visa can only work for a maximum of 20 hours per week on campus during their academic term, while those with a STEM degree have a longer OPT validity period. Knowing the rules and regulations specific to your visa will help you navigate the job market more effectively.
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Applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Understanding OPT
Firstly, it is important to understand what OPT is and who is eligible. OPT is a type of off-campus employment authorization available to F-1 students, allowing them to gain practical training related to their area of study. To be eligible, you must have completed your studies and not have previously authorized for 12 months or more of full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Requesting OPT
The first step in the OPT application process is to request OPT through your Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO will recommend OPT by endorsing your Form I-20, "Certification of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status", and making the appropriate notation in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Filing Form I-765
After receiving the DSO's recommendation, you must file Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," with USCIS. This form must be accompanied by the required fee and supporting documentation as outlined in the form instructions. It is important to note that you cannot begin your pre- or post-completion OPT until USCIS approves your Form I-765 and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Maintaining Status
During your OPT period, it is crucial to maintain your student status by complying with all requirements. For example, transferring to another school or beginning studies at a higher level will result in the automatic termination of your OPT authorization. Additionally, working in the United States without authorization has serious consequences, including removal from the country.
STEM OPT Extension
If you are an F-1 student with a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), you may be eligible for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT. To qualify, you must have earned your degree from an accredited institution recognized by the US Department of Education and certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The practical training opportunity must be directly related to your STEM degree.
Reporting Requirements
During your OPT period, you are required to report certain information to your DSO regularly. For example, if you are participating in the STEM OPT extension program, you must report any termination of employment or changes within five business days. Additionally, you must confirm your information with the DSO every six months, even if there have been no changes.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two non-immigrant visa categories for students wishing to study in the US: F and M visas. F-1 visas are for academic students and M-1 visas are for vocational students. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment and, after their first academic year, may be eligible for off-campus employment.
Students with an F-1 visa can only work a maximum of 20 hours per week on campus during their academic term. This restriction is usually lifted during breaks in the academic term. Off-campus training employment for F-1 students must be related to their area of study and must be authorised by the Designated School Official (DSO) and USCIS.
It can be difficult for international students to find employment in the US as employers may be hesitant due to complexities and misunderstandings concerning visas. It is important to know your visa requirements and restrictions and to be able to explain them to employers. You can use resources such as Handshake to filter for companies that offer visa sponsorship.
Before you start applying, think about the types of jobs you want to work in and your professional goals. Consider your personal skills and interests and how they align with the job. Research the employer thoroughly and understand your strengths and weaknesses.
Your school is likely to offer career services with experience helping international students find jobs in the US. You can also visit the International Student Job Center and International Student Resume Writing Center for dedicated resources and guidance.
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