
As an international student, you may face several challenges when looking for internships and jobs in certain countries, such as complex and changing immigration regulations and cultural differences. However, there are companies that hire international students and even sponsor them. Some of the top companies that hire international students include IBM Corporation, Intel Corporation, Adobe Systems, and Accenture. There are also online platforms such as Interstride, My Visa Jobs, and Handshake that can be used to find internships and jobs that require special skills that international students may have.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Job Search Tools | Handshake, CareerShift, Interstride, My Visa Jobs, Uniworld |
| Job Search Filters | "Will sponsor or doesn't require US work visa", "Accepts OPT/CPT", "H1-B Visa Sponsorship" |
| Work Authorisation | F-1 or J-1 non-immigrant student immigration status, CPT, OPT, H-1B, E-2, L-1, G-4 |
| Visa Sponsorship | H-1B, OPT, CPT, E-2, G-4 |
| Top Companies | Accenture, Adobe Systems, IBM Corporation, Intel Corporation, Adobe Research, Capital One, Cisco Systems, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services |
| University Support | United OPT, University Career Center, Center for Career Development, Cawley Career Education Center |
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What You'll Learn

Job search tools and filters
Several online job search tools and filters can help international students find companies that hire foreign nationals. These platforms offer filters for work authorization and visa sponsorship, making it easier for students to identify relevant opportunities. Here are some popular platforms with effective filters:
Handshake
Handshake is a platform that allows students to filter companies that offer visa sponsorship. It also has filters like "Will sponsor or doesn't require US work visa" and "Accepts OPT/CPT." Handshake also provides insights into companies' attitudes toward hiring international talent, helping students assess their fit with potential employers.
CareerShift
CareerShift is a comprehensive job and internship search tool that aggregates opportunities from multiple sources. It provides contact information for alumni and other professionals. International students can use the H1-B Visa Sponsorship filter under Advanced Search to find organizations willing to sponsor visa holders.
MyVisaJobs
MyVisaJobs is a platform that offers filters for OPT/CPT eligibility and visa sponsorship. It helps international students identify companies that are open to hiring foreign nationals and provides valuable information about the US job market, which can be challenging to navigate due to work authorization complexities.
LinkedIn, the world's largest professional networking platform, is invaluable for international students. It offers job listings and networking opportunities. Students can connect with professionals, alumni, and recruiters to gain advice and insights into companies that may be open to sponsorship. Job postings on LinkedIn often specify whether an employer is open to visa sponsorship, making the search more efficient for international students.
Indeed
Indeed is a popular global job search engine with a US-specific site offering numerous opportunities for international students. It allows users to filter job searches by work authorization status, making it convenient for students to find employers willing to hire non-US citizens.
Interstride
Interstride is a platform that lets users filter jobs by companies that have historically sponsored visas. It provides global job boards, allowing students to search for opportunities in the US and other countries. Interstride also offers guides and resources on hiring international students and alternatives to the H-1B work visa.
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OPT/CPT visa requirements
The OPT/CPT visa requirements for international students in the US are detailed below:
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
The CPT visa allows international students on an F1 Visa to gain practical work experience in their field of study. CPT can be undertaken during full-time study and allows for full-time or part-time work, as well as internships. Graduate students can accept CPT from day one of their studies if it is a requirement of their program.
To apply for a CPT visa, students must first receive a valid job offer related to their educational major, and then get approval on their employment letter from a Designated School Official (DSO). CPT is valid for 12 months and does not affect eligibility for OPT unless undertaken for 12 months or more of full-time work.
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
OPT visas are for students who have completed their graduation and allow them to gain practical training in their field of study. OPT visas are applied for through the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) and require an Employment Authorization Document. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during classes and 40 hours per week outside of class time.
H1B Visa
The H1B visa is the next step after OPT and CPT. It allows international students to work full-time and can lead to permanent residency. Employers may sponsor students for an H1B visa after they have completed their educational degree.
Additional Considerations
International students should be proactive in their job search and start applying before graduation. They should also be mindful of visa requirements and ensure they understand the rules and regulations of their specific situation. It is important to do thorough research on potential employers and their hiring processes, especially regarding their sponsorship of international students.
Some internships and larger companies provide visa sponsorship, which can be beneficial for gaining experience and navigating the visa process. Students can also seek help from career counsellors and legal advisors, as well as HR consulting firms, to navigate the job market and improve their chances of finding employment.
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Fortune 500 companies
The Fortune 500 list is an important resource for international students seeking employment in the United States. The list ranks the top 500 US companies by their total revenue and includes various industries, such as technology, finance, and consulting. Fortune 500 companies offer a wide range of job opportunities and are known for their economic prominence and career development opportunities.
For international students, particularly those on Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the US, the Fortune 500 ranking provides valuable insights into potential employers. These companies have the resources and inclination to support international talent through programs like H1B visa sponsorship. The size and diversity of Fortune 500 companies provide a rich environment for OPT students to gain valuable professional experience and contribute to America's economic prosperity.
When seeking employment with Fortune 500 companies, international students should consider the following:
- Adaptability and cultural fluency: Integrating into the diverse corporate cultures of these large organizations is crucial.
- Strong communication skills: Effective articulation of ideas and collaboration are enhanced by good verbal and written communication skills.
- Technical proficiency: A solid foundation in technical skills relevant to the field is essential.
- Networking and relationship building: Actively participate in industry events and informational interviews to build a network of connections.
- Active learning and skill development: Combine this with problem-solving skills to stand out to recruiters.
- Previous internship experience: Practical insight and application of skills gained during internships are valuable.
- Utilize recruitment platforms: Platforms like Handshake and Interstride can help international students find job opportunities and connect with employers, including Fortune 500 companies.
Examples of Fortune 500 companies that hire international students include:
- Intel Corporation: A technology sector leader offering internships in various industries, including computer hardware and software innovation.
- JP Morgan (JP Morgan Chase): A top financial institution offering financial solutions and research efforts to address global economic challenges.
- Accenture: A professional services company with a global presence, offering internships in strategy, consulting, and technology.
- IBM Corporation: Ranked among the top visa sponsors, IBM offers H1B occupations in computer programming, systems analysis, and software development.
- Cisco Systems: A networking and IT brand offering internships and apprenticeships in technology solutions for businesses.
- Google: Known for competitive internships, Google is at the forefront of technology advances, making information accessible worldwide.
By considering the above points and exploring the Fortune 500 list, international students can identify potential employers and increase their chances of securing career opportunities with leading companies in the US.
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University resources
Career Services Office:
Your university's career services office is a valuable resource. They often have dedicated staff members who specialize in assisting international students with their unique job search needs. These professionals can provide guidance on work authorization requirements, help you understand the job market, and offer support throughout your job search journey. They may also have employer connections and can inform you about companies that have hired international students in the past. Utilize their expertise and schedule regular appointments to discuss your job search strategy and gain access to their network.
Alumni Networks:
Tap into your university's alumni network to connect with graduates who have successfully navigated the job search process as international students. Alumni are often willing to offer advice and insights to current students. They can share their experiences, provide referrals, and even alert you to job openings within their organizations. Attend alumni events, join alumni networks, and utilize your university's alumni database to make meaningful connections that can aid in your job search.
On-Campus Recruiting:
Many universities host on-campus recruiting events where employers come to campus to meet and interview students. These events are excellent opportunities to connect directly with companies that may be open to hiring international students. Attend career fairs, information sessions, and networking events to introduce yourself to recruiters and demonstrate your interest in their organizations. Ask questions about their hiring practices regarding international students and showcase how your skills and experiences align with their company culture and values.
University Partnerships:
Universities often have partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and corporations. These partnerships can provide valuable connections to potential employers. Inquire about any internship or cooperative education programs your university offers in collaboration with local companies. These programs can offer a gateway to employment opportunities, as many companies first seek to hire interns or co-op students before offering full-time positions.
Faculty and Staff Connections:
Don't underestimate the power of networking with your professors, lecturers, and university staff. They often have extensive industry connections and may be aware of companies that actively seek diverse talent, including international students. Share your career aspirations with them, and ask for their advice and referrals. They might know of specific companies hiring or be able to introduce you to relevant industry contacts.
University Career Portals:
Many universities provide online career portals or job boards exclusively for their students and alumni. These portals can be a great place to find job postings that cater to international students. Employers who use these portals are often already aware of the unique considerations when hiring international talent and may be more open to sponsoring work visas. Regularly check your university's career portal for relevant job opportunities.
Remember, your university wants to see you succeed, and they provide these resources to support your career development. Make the most of these services and actively engage with them to increase your chances of finding companies that hire international students.
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Immigration regulations
International students face several challenges when seeking internships and jobs in the United States, including complex and changing immigration regulations. To work in the US, international students must obtain a visa, which can be either a non-immigrant visa for temporary stays or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. There are three primary types of student visas: F, J, and M. F visas are for students studying at an accredited US college or university, or an English language institute. J visas are for exchange programs, and M visas are for non-academic or vocational study. Students must apply for a visa through the US Department of State, and upon arrival in the US, the Department of Homeland Security becomes the responsible agency for enforcing immigration regulations.
To maintain student status, international students must fulfill the purpose of their visa and follow all associated regulations. Students must also apply to other government agencies for any additional benefits, and eligibility depends on their student status. Most employment and training opportunities require authorization from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
International students can use the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program to work part-time jobs. CPT is commonly used for internships and allows students to work in their field of study part-time while studying. After completing their studies, international students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain temporary employment directly related to their area of study. OPT is commonly used for full-time jobs.
For long-term employment in the US after graduation, international students require employer-based visa sponsorship, such as the H-1B, TN, or O1 visa. The H-1B visa is a common option for international students seeking long-term employment, and resources like Handshake allow students to filter job postings by employers who sponsor work authorization or accept OPT/CPT. Additionally, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) provides a list of the top 200 employers in 2019 who hired OPT and CPT students, which can be a valuable resource for international students seeking employment.
Overall, international students must navigate complex immigration regulations and visa requirements to secure internships and jobs in the United States. By understanding the different types of visas, maintaining their student status, and utilizing resources like CPT and OPT, international students can increase their chances of finding employment opportunities that align with their career goals.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can use online platforms like Handshake, CareerShift, Interstride, My Visa Jobs, and Uniworld to find internships and jobs that require special skills like language capabilities. These platforms allow filtering jobs based on work authorization requirements and visa sponsorship. Additionally, students can seek opportunities within their universities and explore small firms and companies around their location, including computer centres, cafeterias, and small organizations.
Several companies hire international students, including:
- IBM Corporation (global technology company)
- Intel Corporation (innovations in computer hardware and software)
- Adobe Systems (technology and creativity)
- Accenture (professional services company specializing in strategy, consulting, and technology)
- Infosys (mathematical and logical reasoning focus)
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
- United OPT (helps international students find OPT jobs in the USA)
International students may encounter challenges due to complex and changing immigration regulations, unclear information about employers hiring international students, and cultural differences. Additionally, hiring companies may perceive international students as more costly and time-consuming to employ, creating an added hurdle.
International students can improve their chances by focusing on quality job applications, conducting thorough research, and approaching HR consulting and recruiting firms. Utilizing platforms like Handshake and CareerShift can help find employers sponsoring work authorization for international students. Networking with alumni and mentors through platforms like Interstride can also provide valuable connections and insights into the visa process.

















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