Lori Meadows
International students with an F-1 visa are eligible to apply for internships in the USA, with assistance from their accredited university or college. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a full-time or part-time training opportunity available during the school year or summer vacation that F-1 students can take advantage of. CPT authorization is required and can be issued by the university, provided the student has been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for a full academic year. F-1 students can also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which can be done during their studies (pre-completion OPT) or after completion (post-completion OPT). The process of finding an internship as an international F-1 student can be challenging, but universities have resources and advisors to help students navigate the visa requirements and connect with employers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa type | F-1 or J-1 |
| Visa requirements | Passport, proof of enrolment, proof of ability to support yourself financially |
| Visa application timing | Visas typically approved 120 days before start date, entry allowed 30 days or less prior to start date |
| Visa fees | Application fees required for both F-1 and J-1 visas |
| Work limitations | F-1 students can work full-time or part-time on campus during the summer vacation. J-1 visa holders cannot do casual work, and no more than 20% of their job can be clerical work. |
| Internship requirements | CPT authorization, updated I-20 form, Social Security Number (for paid internships) |
| Internship opportunities | On-campus career fairs, job boards, virtual internships, international organizations |
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What You'll Learn
F-1 visa requirements
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time at accredited academic institutions in the US. To be eligible for an F-1 visa, several requirements must be met, both before and after applying.
Firstly, the college or university where you plan to study must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE). The educational institution must also be authorised by the US government to accept foreign students. The F-1 visa is only available to those studying full-time, so you must be enrolled as a full-time student for the duration of your academic term.
Secondly, you must meet the required English language proficiency score of your institution, or be enrolled in courses that will improve your English. You must also prove that you have sufficient funds to finance your studies and living expenses while in the US. Your passport should be valid for US travel for at least six months after your program completion date. Additionally, you must have a residence in your home country to return to following the completion of your degree.
To apply for an F-1 visa, you must first be accepted by a SEVP-certified institution. Once accepted, you will receive your I-20 form, which is required to apply for the visa. You must then pay the SEVIS fee and complete your DS-160 visa application, submitting a photo that meets the requirements. After receiving a confirmation for your DS-160, you can schedule your visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate, bringing the printed confirmation, your I-20 form, passport, travel itinerary, and photo.
While studying in the US on an F-1 visa, there are several restrictions and rules to be aware of. F-1 students are not permitted to enter the US earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program. During the first academic year, F-1 students may not work off-campus, except with permission from their university, but they can accept on-campus employment. After the first year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment, including Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), and internships with certain international organisations. CPT must be authorised by the Designated School Official (DSO) and be integral to the student's major field of study. Pre-completion OPT must relate to the student's major, and a Form I-765 must be filed with US Citizenship and Immigration Services before beginning the opportunity. Summer internships, whether paid or unpaid, require authorisation if the position is usually hired and paid by the organisation.
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CPT authorization
To obtain CPT authorization, students must first ensure that their internship is related to their degree program and that they have completed their first year of university. They will also need to apply for CPT authorization and obtain an updated Form I-20, which is a "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status". This form indicates that the student has been approved for employment by their Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO must authorize CPT in accordance with school policies, and the CPT start date must be on or after the authorization date in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
The next steps include providing details such as the employment end date, full-time or part-time status, employer name, and address where the training will take place. Students should also be aware that CPT authorization is processed and authorized term by term, and they should refer to their academic department's specific guidelines for CPT applications. There are two types of CPT: required and optional. Required CPT is mandated by the academic program for all students to graduate, while optional CPT is work experience directly related to the student's field of study but not mandatory.
It is important to note that CPT authorization is strongly recommended for unpaid internships as well. This ensures that the practical experience is recognized as part of the curriculum and helps in reporting the student's activity, employment, and location in SEVIS. Additionally, students must maintain a full course of study even when CPT is authorized, and they cannot work off-campus during their first academic year without permission from their university.
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On-campus vs. off-campus internships
For international F-1 students in the United States, internships can be a great way to enhance their resumes and build a network of contacts. However, the process of securing an internship can be challenging due to the strict regulations surrounding employment for foreign nationals.
On-campus internships are a viable option for F-1 students, as they can work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during annual vacations or academic breaks. These internships can be with on-campus commercial businesses, such as a bookstore or cafeteria, or with employers contractually affiliated with the school, such as research labs. On-campus internships must not displace US citizens or lawful permanent residents.
In contrast, off-campus internships for F-1 students are typically only authorized in cases of severe economic hardship or emergent circumstances, such as natural disasters or financial crises. To be eligible for off-campus employment, F-1 students must have been in F-1 status for at least one full academic year and must demonstrate their ability to afford school and living expenses before entering the United States. Off-campus internships can be with international organizations and must be authorized by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
F-1 students interested in internships should consult their designated school official (DSO) to ensure they follow the necessary rules and maintain their student status. Additionally, resources like Handshake, Shorelight Career Services, and university career fairs can help connect students with internship opportunities.
While the process of securing an internship as an international F-1 student can be challenging, it is not impossible. With careful planning, patience, and determination, students can find internships that provide valuable experience and enhance their professional profiles.
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Paid vs. unpaid internships
F-1 students at SEVP-certified educational institutions can participate in summer practical training. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a full-time or part-time training opportunity available during the school year or annual summer vacation. CPT must be related to the student's major field of study. F-1 students can also participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT), which can be applied for during their studies or after completion.
Now, when it comes to paid vs. unpaid internships, there are several factors to consider. Paid internships provide financial benefits to interns, who can earn between $15.67 and $19.51 per hour on average. This can be especially advantageous for interns facing financial challenges or juggling other expenses. Paid internships also signal to future employers that the intern possesses valuable skills, potentially opening doors to new job opportunities. Additionally, paid internships offer a more structured experience, with interns expected to adhere to a schedule and perform specific tasks. This structure can maximize the benefits for both the company and the intern.
On the other hand, unpaid internships often provide a learning opportunity for interns to observe professionals and gain insights into industry operations, culture, and processes. Unpaid internships may offer less pressure and more flexibility to focus on learning without the immediate expectations of a paid role. Unpaid internships are generally easier to find, as companies may be more willing to bring on interns without financial commitments. They can also help fulfill graduation requirements by offering college credit. According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), an unpaid internship must primarily benefit the intern, not the employer, and employers must provide supervision and mentorship.
However, unpaid internships may not offer the same level of responsibility or opportunities to showcase abilities, potentially impacting immediate job prospects. The lack of compensation in unpaid internships can also disproportionately exclude individuals from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford to work without pay. Additionally, companies that offer paid internships gain a competitive edge, attract top talent, and enhance their employer brand. While unpaid internships may seem cost-effective for companies, they can ultimately cost more in terms of time, resources, and reputation.
In conclusion, both paid and unpaid internships offer unique advantages. Paid internships provide financial benefits, signal valuable skills, and offer a more structured experience. Meanwhile, unpaid internships can provide learning opportunities, flexibility, and an easier entry point into the industry. However, the lack of compensation in unpaid internships can limit accessibility and impact the level of responsibility and future job prospects. Ultimately, the decision between paid and unpaid internships depends on various factors, including the intern's financial situation, the industry norms, and the specific opportunities provided by each internship.
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The role of international student counsellors
International student counsellors play a crucial role in supporting international students, particularly those on F-1 visas, in their pursuit of internships and employment opportunities. They are well-versed in the unique challenges faced by international students and provide essential guidance to help them navigate the complex world of internships and practical training.
The role of an international student counsellor is multifaceted. They are responsible for providing consultation services, academic and extracurricular guidance, and outreach specifically tailored to the needs of international students. This includes helping students transition to campus life, connecting them with support services, and even assisting in emergency situations. One of their key roles is to help international students navigate the world of internships and practical training opportunities. This entails guiding students through the process of finding and securing internships, ensuring they meet the necessary visa requirements, and providing advice on resume and cover letter preparation.
International student counsellors are often a student's first point of contact when seeking internships. They assist students in understanding the different types of practical training available, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), and help them navigate the authorization processes. For instance, CPT requires authorization from both the student's major advisor and their international student advisor, with the latter also providing a special I-20 for the duration of the CPT experience. Counsellors also advise students on the various visa options for internships, such as the F-1 visa for students enrolled in degree programs and the J-1 visa for those seeking internships without enrolling in a degree.
Additionally, international student counsellors play a crucial role in helping students build their professional networks. They may advise students on networking strategies, direct them to career fairs and job boards, and even connect them with alumni networks. This support enables international students to leverage these connections and increase their chances of securing internships. Counsellors also guide students in understanding the cultural nuances of the job market in their host country, which can be invaluable in their internship search.
The role of an international student counsellor is expected to grow in demand, with a projected 10% increase in job opportunities between 2018 and 2028. This growth underscores the increasing recognition of the importance of supporting international students' unique needs. Counsellors are often required to have a bachelor's degree, preferably in international relations or a related field, and some employers value experience in study abroad programs. The average salary for this role is approximately $45,015 per year, and it offers a rewarding opportunity to facilitate the success of international students in their academic and professional pursuits.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need either an F-1 or J-1 visa. F-1 visas are the most common for internships and are for full-time students. J-1 visas are for students and trainees, with two types: Intern and Trainee.
CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. CPT allows students to work 20 hours per week during semesters and 40 hours per week during the summer for 12 to 14 months. CPT can be issued by your school and must be part of your academic program. CPT is usually used for internships, whereas OPT (Optional Practical Training) influences the total time of legal work allowed after graduation.
Utilize the resources and support available to you, such as career services, international student counselors, and academic advisors. Network with fellow students, professors, and guest lecturers to build connections. Prepare a resume and cover letter, and apply for internships on trusted sites. Ensure you have the correct visa and any necessary authorizations.
F-1 students can work full-time or part-time on campus during the summer vacation. Off-campus work is usually not allowed in the first academic year without permission. Students experiencing economic hardship may apply for off-campus work authorization.
