Lana Oconnell
International internships are a great way to gain valuable work experience and skills in your chosen field, while also getting to travel and explore new cultures. They can also make your resume more attractive to future employers and even lead to full-time job offers. However, it is important to navigate the legal and financial aspects of international internships carefully, especially when it comes to understanding the labour laws and visa requirements of the host country. While some internships are unpaid, it is important to remember that your time and effort deserve compensation. This could come in the form of a salary, stipends, or even full-time employee benefits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa type | F-1 visa, J1 visa |
| Visa requirements | Must be enrolled at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school |
| Work authorization | Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT) |
| Work hours | 20 hours per week while in school, full time during the summer or after graduation |
| Duration | 9 months, 12 months, 24 months (STEM majors) |
| Compensation | Stipend, living expenses, food expenses, academic credit |
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What You'll Learn
Understanding visa regulations and eligibility
Understanding Visa Options
Before embarking on an internship search, it is vital to comprehend the different types of visas available for international students. The two primary visas that facilitate internships in the US are the F-1 visa and the J-1 visa.
The F-1 visa is typically for international students already studying in the US, allowing them to undertake internships during or after their studies. This visa enables students to gain practical experience through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT is a degree-related internship, while OPT can be unrelated to the student's degree. CPT requires authorization and an updated I-20 form, and students cannot work off-campus during the first academic year without university permission. OPT can be applied for during studies (pre-completion OPT) or after graduation (post-completion OPT), with the latter allowing full-time work for up to 12 months with USCIS approval. STEM-related degrees may qualify for a 24-month extension.
On the other hand, the J-1 visa is often for those coming to the US solely for an internship. The J-1 visa program emphasizes cultural exchange and professional development, requiring employers to incorporate cultural activities and learning opportunities. This visa demands partnership with designated sponsor organizations that handle paperwork and compliance monitoring. While J-1 students cannot apply for OPT, they can apply for Academic Training (AT) in their field for up to 18 months after graduating.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an internship as an international student, you must ensure that the internship meets the requirements of your specific student visa. For instance, F-1 visa holders need to obtain work authorization, such as CPT or OPT, and must have completed at least one year of study at an SEVP-certified school before qualifying for CPT. Additionally, students must understand the work hour limitations, which vary based on their visa type and the nature of the internship (degree-related or unrelated).
Tax Implications
It is essential to recognize the tax implications associated with international internships. While most J-1 and F-1 visa holders are exempt from Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes during their first five years in the US, proper documentation and regular monitoring of tax residency status are necessary. Employers must ensure that interns complete Form W-4 for tax withholding, and organizations and interns should consult with tax professionals and immigration attorneys for specific guidance.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Compliance
US internship regulations are centered around the FLSA, which distinguishes between interns and employees. The Primary Beneficiary Test, developed by the US Department of Labor, evaluates seven key criteria focusing on the educational nature of the internship and the intern-employer relationship. Unpaid internships must adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring that the training provided mirrors that of an educational environment and directly ties to the intern's formal education.
In summary, understanding visa regulations and eligibility for international student interns involves navigating visa options, comprehending eligibility requirements, addressing tax implications, and ensuring compliance with the FLSA. These steps are crucial in paving the way for a successful and legally sound internship experience in the United States.
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Getting work authorization
International students in the US can obtain work authorization under specific circumstances, whether during their studies or after graduation. The majority of international students maintain F-1 student status, which allows them to gain practical work experience related to their major field of study.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT is a full-time or part-time training opportunity available during the school year or annual summer vacation. CPT can be authorized by your Designated School Official (DSO) but must be part of your academic program and be integral to your major field of study. CPT employment is defined as "alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required internship or practicum that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school." To qualify, the work experience must be required for your degree, or academic credit must be awarded. Prior authorization by your school's International Student Office and notification to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is required. CPT authorization will specify whether you are approved for part-time (20 hours per week or less) or full-time employment.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Pre-completion OPT is a training option for F-1 students that can be full-time during summer vacation. OPT must relate to your major, and you must file a Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," with USCIS to receive authorization before beginning your training opportunity. Summer internships require authorization if you are working and training in a position where the organization would usually hire and pay someone. If an internship is unpaid, it can still be authorized as a practical training experience. Post-completion OPT is a work authorization that allows F-1 status students who have graduated to gain practical work experience for 12 months related to their major field of study.
STEM OPT
Students can submit the completed I-983 training plan as part of their STEM OPT request to the international student services office, which processes the STEM OPT recommendation. The student then files their OPT application, supporting documentation, and a fee of $520 if filed by paper ($470 if filed online) to USCIS. Once approved, USCIS issues an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card as proof of work authorization for the 24-month period.
Severe Economic Hardship
USCIS will authorize off-campus employment in cases of severe economic hardship occurring after a student's enrollment in an academic program and after the student has been in F-1 status for at least one full academic year, or in emergent circumstances as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Emergent circumstances include world events such as natural disasters, wars, and financial crises.
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Applying for CPT or OPT
As an international student, you can apply for an internship as long as it meets the requirements of your student visa. If you are studying in the United States on an F-1 student visa, your visa allows you to work as an intern during or after school, but you'll need to get work authorization first. Specifically, you'll need to get approved for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Applying for CPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) lets you gain practical experience by working an internship or taking part in cooperative education during the school year or on summer break. CPT must be completed before you graduate from your program and it must be integral to your program of study. To apply for CPT, follow these general steps:
- Contact your student advisor at your university to find out which CPT programs are available at your institution, eligibility requirements, and sponsoring employers.
- Acquire an employment offer letter from your employer with all the required details, such as the workplace address.
- Apply to the CPT program through your college or university.
- DSOs must authorize CPT on a part-time or full-time basis, in accordance with school policies.
- When school is in session, the student must maintain a full course of study even when CPT is authorized.
- CPT authorization is only required when the training is inside the United States.
- Enter the name of the company or organization where the training will take place, as well as the address.
- Describe how the training is an integral part of the established curriculum.
- Print Form I-20 with the CPT authorization on page two. Students are expected to keep all Forms I-20 issued during their academic career.
Applying for OPT
Optional Practical Training (OPT) can authorize you to work an internship before or after you graduate. You can intern up to 20 hours per week while in school or full time during the summer or after earning your degree. OPT can be completed before or after graduation and the internship should relate to your major. The OPT application process tends to be long (90+ days), so make sure to apply as soon as possible. Here are the steps to apply for OPT:
- Speak to your student advisor or DSO at your university and request information about applying for OPT.
- Request your DSO to recommend you for OPT. Your DSO will update the SEVIS and I-20 form with the recommendation.
- Complete Form I-765 and send it to USCIS with the required documents outlined on the application. You also need to pay the required fee.
- Once the USCIS approves your Form I-765, obtain your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Start your OPT program on the start date mentioned on your EAD.
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Networking and career fairs
To make the most of career fairs, it is important to prepare beforehand. Students should review the list of participating employers and the types of roles they are recruiting for. This helps in narrowing down the relevant companies to target. It is also beneficial to prepare an elevator pitch, which is a short introduction highlighting one's skills and interests. This pitch can be used as an ice-breaker when approaching employers at the fair.
Additionally, students should come prepared with copies of their resume and a professional attitude. It is recommended to dress appropriately and have a confident demeanour. Career fairs are also an excellent opportunity to network with alumni and teachers, who may have insights into job opportunities that align with one's interests. Building these connections can open doors to future internships or job prospects.
While career fairs are beneficial, they should not be the only method relied upon for finding internships. International students, in particular, may face challenges due to visa sponsorship requirements. Therefore, it is essential to also utilise other resources such as job boards, virtual internships, and online platforms like LinkedIn to broaden the search for internship opportunities.
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Scholarships and stipends
Paying for an internship as an international student can be challenging, but there are several scholarships and stipends available to help fund your experience. Here are some options to consider:
Scholarships
Scholarships are a great way to fund your internship abroad, and there are many opportunities available. Here are some tips for finding scholarships:
- Speak to your academic advisors: Your university's academic advisors can provide valuable information about departmental scholarships, career field scholarships, and other financial assistance opportunities. They can guide you towards scholarships that align with your specific needs and background, such as first-generation, BIPOC, or LGBTQ+ student scholarships.
- Check with your university's study abroad and career services offices: These offices often maintain lists of scholarships specifically for students seeking international internships. They can also advise you on using your FAFSA scholarships and grants for international internships, especially if you partner with a program provider affiliated with your university.
- Explore national and regional scholarships: Many countries, regions, and cities offer scholarships to promote international experiences for their citizens. For instance, the U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program assists students with financial needs to pursue international internships. Similarly, Canada's Queen Elizabeth Scholars Program supports Canadian students with funding for international internships.
- Consider third-party organization scholarships: Some scholarships are tied to specific organizations or schools. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs sponsors scholarships for students with financial needs to pursue non-traditional internships abroad.
- Look into creative and unique scholarship opportunities: Some scholarships may require creative submissions, such as photo or video contests, while others may have random selection processes, like the Got Scholarship 20K Give Away.
- Research online scholarship databases: Websites like internationalscholarships.com and fastweb.com aggregate information about various scholarships, allowing you to explore a wide range of opportunities in one place.
Stipends
Stipends are another way to fund your international internship. Here are some stipend options to consider:
- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation: The Cooke Foundation offers internship stipends to current Cooke Scholars who are not receiving college credit for their internships. Scholars must maintain good academic standing and demonstrate the relevance of the internship to their career goals.
- Large multi-national corporations: Many large companies support internships and often pay their interns a living wage. They may also cover additional expenses, such as visa costs. These internships can provide valuable experience and help you build connections for future career opportunities.
- Program-specific stipends: Some internship programs may offer partial stipends to help offset the cost of participation. For example, CET, a study abroad provider, offers financial assistance and scholarships for its programs in various countries.
Remember to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each scholarship and stipend opportunity. By combining these funding sources with other creative funding strategies, such as online fundraising campaigns or part-time work, you can make your international internship a reality.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can apply for internships in the US as long as they meet the requirements of their student visa. Most international students hold an F-1 visa, which allows for optional practical training (OPT) during or after their academic program.
International students need to get work authorization before starting an internship in the US. This can be done through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). CPT allows students to gain practical experience by working during the school year or on summer breaks. OPT can authorize students to work before or after graduation, and they can intern up to 20 hours per week during school or full-time during the summer or after graduation.
Whether an international student requires payment for an internship depends on the nature of the work. If the internship is considered "volunteer work" under Department of Labor (DOL) rules, then it does not require payment or work authorization. However, if the internship should be paid employment according to DOL rules, then the student must be "employment authorized" and receive at least the federal minimum wage.
International students can find internships in the US by attending career fairs, networking events, and workshops. Many universities in the US have career services that assist students in finding internships and jobs. Students should also research and apply to internship programs, as some organizations offer structured programs for international students.
