GlobalConnect supports international students with the tools, guidance, and connections needed to develop in their academic and professional journeys. Explore resources designed to help you understand employment regulations, navigate U.S. work culture, and build your future career.
Understanding Employment Regulations
International students must follow specific immigration and employment regulations while studying and working in the United States. Understanding these rules helps you gain valuable experience while maintaining your student status.
Common Types of Employment:
On-Campus Employment
- Work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester
- Full-time work may be allowed during official school breaks
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Temporary employment authorization related to your academic program
- Available before or after graduation, depending on eligibility
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Employment directly related to your academic program
- Must be approved by your Designated School Official (DSO)
Important Rules to Remember:
- Never begin work without proper authorization
- Always confirm eligibility with your Designated School Official (DSO)
- Maintain copies of your immigration and employment documents
- Ensure your employment is directly related to your academic program when required
- Report employment updates when required through SEVIS or the SEVP Portal
Understanding Work Authorization
Understanding work authorization is an important part of planning your career in the United States. Knowing your options early can help you make informed decisions about internships, job opportunities, and long-term career goals.
Below is a simplified overview of common work authorization pathways for international students.
OPT (Optional Practical Training)
How to Apply
Basic steps include:
- Meet with your International Student Advisor to confirm eligibility
- Request a recommendation for OPT that will reflect on your international student SEVIS I-20
- Submit your OPT application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before beginning work
Important timing tips
- You can apply up to 90 days before graduation
- Applications must be submitted within 60 days after your program completion date
- Processing times may take several months, so applying early is strongly recommended
Employment Eligibility and Reporting Requirements
While on OPT, students must maintain compliance with immigration regulations.
Key requirements include:
- Your job must be directly related to your major field of study
- You must work at least 20 hours per week
- Report changes such as:
- Employer name and address
- Job title and responsibilities
- Employment start or end dates
- Update your information through your Designated School Official and SEVP Portal
Students on post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) may accumulate up to 90 days of unemployment during the 12-month OPT authorization period.
Tips for Maximizing Your OPT Experience
OPT provides valuable professional experience that can strengthen your long-term career opportunities.
Helpful strategies:
- Begin networking and job searching before graduation
- Look for positions that allow you to develop specialized or technical skills
- Document your accomplishments and projects during your employment
- Build strong relationships with supervisors and mentors
- Discuss long-term employment possibilities early with your employer
STEM OPT Extension
The STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) Extension allows eligible F-1 students who have completed a degree in an approved Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field to extend their post-completion OPT for an additional 24 months. This extension provides students with additional time to gain practical work experience in their field while contributing their skills to U.S. employers.
How to Apply
Basic steps include:
- Meet with your International Student Advisor to confirm STEM OPT eligibility
- Secure employment with a qualified E-Verify employer
- Complete the Form I-983 Training Plan with your employer
- Request a STEM OPT recommendation that will be issued on your updated SEVIS I-20 through you Designated School Official
- Submit your STEM OPT Extension application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before beginning the STEM OPT extension period
Important Timing Tips
• You may apply up to 90 days before your current OPT end date
• Your application must be received by USCIS before your current OPT expires
• If your STEM OPT application is pending, your work authorization is automatically extended for up to 180 days while USCIS processes the application
Employment Eligibility and Reporting Requirements
While on STEM OPT, students must continue to maintain compliance with F-1 immigration regulations and SEVIS reporting requirements.
Key requirements include:
• Your job must be directly related to your STEM degree
• You must work at least 20 hours per week
• Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify
• The employer must complete and maintain Form I-983 Training Plan
Students must report changes such as:
• Employer name and address
• Job title and responsibilities
• Employment start or end dates
• Changes to the training plan or work location
Students must also complete required validation reporting:
• Every 6 months: confirm employment and address information with your Designated School Official (DSO)
• At 12 and 24 months: submit a self-evaluation on the Form I-983
Students on the STEM OPT Extension may accumulate up to 60 additional days of unemployment, for a maximum total of 150 days of unemployment across both the initial OPT and STEM OPT periods combined.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
CPT is typically used for internships, cooperative education programs, or other work experiences related to your degree, such as clinicals or rotations.
Internship Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements vary by program of study, but typically include:
- Being enrolled in a full course of study within your academic program
- Completing at least one full academic year before participating
- Securing an internship or job that is directly related to your major
- Enrolling in an internship course or receiving academic credit when required
- Enrolled in clinicals or co-operative education course
Always confirm eligibility with the International Student Services office and Designated School Official before accepting a position.
Employer Requirements and Approval Process
Before beginning CPT employment, students must complete an approval process.
Steps include:
- Confirm enrollment in authorized course
- Secure an internship or job offer related to your field of study
- Obtain a written offer letter from the employer
- Submit the required CPT Request Forms to your Designated School Official
- Receive CPT authorization reflected on your student I-20 before starting work
Important: Students may not begin working until CPT is officially approved.
Integrating CPT with Your Academic Program
CPT is designed to complement your academic experience.
Students often use CPT to:
- Apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting
- Explore potential career paths within their major
- Gain practical industry experience before graduation
- Build professional networks with employers
Internships completed through CPT can also help strengthen your resume when applying for full-time positions after graduation.
Helpful Resources
Staying informed and organized can make the work authorization process much easier.
Official Government Resources
Students should refer to official government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Helpful sources include:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
- Study in the States (Department of Homeland Security)
These sites provide detailed guidance on OPT, CPT, and employment eligibility.
Navigating U.S. Work Culture
Understanding workplace expectations in the United States can help international students feel more confident when applying for jobs, participating in internships, and beginning their careers.
Common Workplace Expectations
- Arrive on time and meet deadlines consistently
- Communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and colleagues
- Take initiative and ask questions when you need clarification
- Participate actively in meetings and team discussions
- Be respectful of different perspectives and workplace diversity
Professional Communication Tips
- Use clear, polite language in emails and messages
- Address supervisors and colleagues professionally unless told otherwise
- Respond to emails within a reasonable time frame (usually within 24 hours)
- Be prepared and professional during virtual meetings and video interviews
Interview and Workplace Etiquette
- Research the company before an interview
- Prepare examples that highlight your skills and experience
- Maintain eye contact and confident body language
- Send a thank-you email after interviews
Building a Professional Network from Scratch
Many international students begin their studies in the U.S. without an established professional network. Building connections early can help you learn about career paths, gain advice, and discover job opportunities.
Where to Start
- Attend career fairs and employer networking events
- Join student organizations related to your field of study
- Participate in workshops hosted by Career Services
- Connect with alumni who work in your industry
How to Introduce Yourself
Prepare a short introduction that includes:
- Your name
- Your major and university
- Your career interests
- A question about the professional’s career or organization
Example:
“Hello, my name is ___. I’m studying ___ and I’m interested in careers in ___. I would love to hear about your experience in this field.”
Networking Tips
- Follow up with professionals you meet by sending a short thank-you message
- Stay connected through professional networking platforms
- Ask thoughtful questions about career paths and industry trends
- Build relationships over time, not just when you need a job
Job Search Strategies
Finding internships and jobs in the United States may feel challenging at first, but with preparation and persistence, international students can successfully navigate the job search process. Understanding how to communicate your skills and identify employers who value global perspectives can make a significant difference.
Start Your Job Search Early
International students often need additional time to secure employment and complete authorization processes.
Recommended timeline:
- 9–12 months before graduation: Begin researching companies and industries
- 6–9 months before graduation: Attend career fairs and networking events
- 3–6 months before graduation: Apply for internships or full-time positions
- 3 months before graduation: Ensure work authorization applications are submitted if required
Highlight Your Unique Strengths
International students bring valuable global perspectives and skills to the workplace.
Consider highlighting:
- Multilingual communication skills
- Cross-cultural adaptability
- Global market knowledge
- Experience working with diverse teams
- Problem-solving and resilience from studying abroad
Employers often value candidates who can bring international insight and cultural awareness to their organizations.
Research Employers That Hire International Students
Some organizations have experience hiring international candidates and sponsoring work authorization.
Ways to identify these employers:
- Review job postings for sponsorship information
- Talk with alumni who work in your field
- Ask recruiters about hiring international students at career fairs
- Use university career resources to identify international-friendly employers
Stay Organized and Persistent
The job search process can take time, but staying organized will help you manage applications and follow up effectively.
Helpful tips:
- Track the jobs you apply for in a spreadsheet
- Follow up with employers after interviews
- Continue networking even after submitting applications
- Be open to internships or entry-level roles that build experience
Career Planning Tips
Students interested in employment in the U.S. should consider:
- Targeting industries and companies directly related to your field of study
- Building specialized skills that are in high demand
- Maintaining strong professional relationships with supervisors and mentors
- Demonstrating the value you bring through your global perspective and technical expertise
International Student Job Search Toolbank
Welcome to the curated hub of job-search tools tailored for F-1 international students, OPT/CPT applicants, and global job seekers. Explore trusted platforms that simplify sponsorship-friendly job searching and expand opportunities worldwide.
UnitedOPT specializes in connecting F-1 students with OPT, CPT, STEM OPT, and H-1B sponsorship-aligned roles, supported by more than 50,000+ employers posting sponsorship-friendly opportunities.
Why It’s Great:
- 50,000+ employers offering sponsorship-friendly roles
- Strong for IT, engineering, and entry-level technical positions
- Fast recruiter responses and live-chat support
Interstride provides a comprehensive platform with job search filters based on work authorization, global listings, and cultural transition resources.
Why It’s Great:
- Visa-aware job listings for the U.S. and global markets
- Relocation guidance, cultural insights, and adjustment tools
- Employer insights and data
MyVisaJobs compiles comprehensive H-1B and Green Card sponsorship statistics, ideal for students seeking employers with a strong history of hiring international candidates.
Why It’s Great:
- H-1B and Green Card sponsorship data by employer
- Profiles of companies with consistent sponsorship history
- Helps students build realistic job target lists
GoinGlobal gives students access to global job boards, visa and work permit information, country-by-country career guides, and localized resume and CV templates. A great match for students exploring opportunities outside the U.S. or preparing for global mobility.
Why It’s Great:
- Comprehensive guides for dozens of countries
- Localized career norms, resume formats & interview expectations
- Employer directories and international internship listings
- Helps students explore globally—not just in the U.S.
Connect with Career Services
South University’s Career Services and Alumni Relations team is committed to supporting international students and alumni as they pursue their academic and professional goals in the United States and beyond. To connect with our team and access individualized career support, please visit careercenter.southuniversity.edu/staff to find your designated Career Services advisor.
Need more support?
As the University Director of International Programs, Dr. Johna McClendon provides strategic leadership in advancing global engagement and supporting the success of international students across the institution. With a student-centered approach focusing on international admissions, enrollment management, and federal regulatory compliance, she ensures adherence to SEVIS and immigration regulations and promotes a welcoming and inclusive campus environment for students from around the world. Dr. McClendon is committed to holistically supporting cultural inclusion and academic success. She collaborates with university leadership, faculty, and external partners to develop programs and services that connect international students with academic, cultural, and professional opportunities while fostering cross-cultural understanding and meaningful global partnerships that empower students throughout their educational journey.
Johna McClendon, Ed.D., M.Ed., B.S.
University Director for International Programs
jmcclendon@southuniversity.edu
912-650-6282