Finding a job in the U.S. can be confusing, whether you're searching for an internship or looking for work after graduation. To get started, it's important to understand your resources and the relevant regulations.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of international students come to the U.S. to study at institutions of higher learning. In addition to pursuing degrees at American universities, many students hope to gain work experience in the U.S., which may provide greater opportunities for employment in the U.S. and abroad after graduation. For international students, the ability to work during or after their studies is complicated by their visa status, which limits their employment opportunities. Despite these restrictions, international students are allowed several options to gain work experience while in the U.S.
On Campus Employment
International students on F-1 or J-1 visa status can work on-campus in roles typically filled by student workers. These positions may include Research Assistant (RA), Teaching Assistant (TA), Graduate Research Assistant (GRA), Graduate Assistant (GA), front desk positions in admissions or department offices, service jobs in landscaping or housing, or technical support in information technology. On-campus employment is limited to half-time (20 hours per week) during the Fall and Spring terms. However, students are allowed to work more than half-time during summer vacations. For more information about available on-campus positions, please visit UNL Career Services.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
For F-1 students, Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides an opportunity to gain full-time work experience directly related to your major field of study. Typically undertaken after completing a degree, F-1 students are eligible for 12 months of OPT, with students in STEM fields allowed an additional 24-month extension of OPT status. USCIS must grant authorization before you’re allowed to work, so if you intend to apply for OPT, it is recommended that you do so early in your last term of study. UNL’s International Student and Scholar Office (ISSO) hosts several OPT information sessions each term, which you must attend to apply for OPT. Find out more here
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
F-1 students can also engage in Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allows for full- or part-time employment during their studies if required for their major. Employment on CPT is typically in the form of an internship, co-op, or practicum and requires that you enroll for credit for the experience. CPT must be approved by your advisor, department, or department head before ISSO grants authorization. See the ISSO website here for detailed information on this option.
Additional Resources
If you have any additional questions about your visa status and what you can do, please contact ISSO first. Before applying for an academic job, be sure to schedule a consultation with Graduate Studies here to review your resume, CV, or cover letter and receive individualized feedback on your job search documents. If you are applying for non-academic/industry jobs reach out to the career services staff in your college. Job documents used in the U.S. may vary from your home country, so it is worth ensuring your job documents align with what is expected of U.S. employers before you apply.