Are you an international student planning to work legally in the United States after graduation? International graduates may be able to work in the United States if they have the appropriate employment authorization. For F-1 students, one common route is post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is temporary employment directly related to the student’s major area of study. Students must follow the rules governing working in the United States.
Employment eligibility depends on your immigration status, employment authorization, degree field, and the position. The roles below are examples of jobs that graduates may consider when the work meets the requirements of their employment authorization. They are not automatically available to every international graduate, and ordinary on-campus employment is not permitted during the F-1 post-graduation grace period.
In-Demand Job Opportunities in the USA
1. Library Assistant
- National Pay: $17.74 median hourly wage; $39,370 mean annual wage
Library assistants help librarians with aspects of running a library. Their tasks may include organizing materials, helping patrons locate resources, checking materials in and out, and providing customer service.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and short-term on-the-job training. Employers may set additional requirements. An F-1 graduate may take this type of position only when it meets the conditions of the graduate’s employment authorization, including the OPT requirement that the work be directly related to the student’s major.
2. Customer Service Representatives
- National Pay: $21.53 median hourly wage; $46,590 mean annual wage
Customer service representatives interact with customers to handle complaints, process orders, and answer questions. Depending on the employer, the role may involve telephone, online, or in-person support. An F-1 graduate may take this type of job only if it fits the requirements of the graduate’s employment authorization, including the OPT requirement that the work be directly related to the student’s major.
The role may include:
- listening to customers’ questions and concerns and providing answers or responses
- providing information about products and services
- reviewing customer accounts and making changes when necessary
- handling returns or complaints and recording actions taken
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists a high school diploma or equivalent as the typical entry-level education for customer service representatives. These positions can help workers develop communication and problem-solving skills.
3. Software Developer
- National Pay: $65.38 median hourly wage; $148,100 mean annual wage
Software developers design computer applications or programs. This work is not limited to students using the STEM OPT extension. An eligible F-1 graduate may work as a software developer during post-completion OPT if the job is directly related to the graduate’s major. Some graduates with qualifying STEM degrees may later apply for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree. The specific qualifications depend on the employer and the position.
4. Finance Executive
- National Pay for Financial and Investment Analysts: $49.40 median hourly wage; $116,800 mean annual wage
This section focuses on financial analyst roles. Financial analysts guide businesses and individuals in decisions about spending money to attain profit and assess the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments. International graduates do not need an MBA simply to be eligible to apply. However, F-1 graduates must make sure that the position meets the requirements of their employment authorization, including the OPT requirement that the work be directly related to their major.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree. Employers set their own qualifications, and graduate education may be useful for some positions or for advancement. This experience may help prepare workers for more senior financial roles.
FAQs: Employment Opportunities in the USA
Do International Students Need a Visa to Work in the US?
International students need the appropriate immigration status and employment authorization to work legally in the United States. An F-1 visa does not automatically authorize unrestricted employment after graduation. Eligible F-1 students may apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training for work that is directly related to their major area of study. USCIS states that students may apply up to 90 days before completing their degree, but no later than 60 days after completing their degree. Students should work with their designated school official and follow the current USCIS application rules.
Certain F-1 students with qualifying STEM degrees may apply for an additional 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training extension. Eligibility depends on the degree and other requirements. Studentsshould check the current DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and USCIS guidance.
Another possible route is H-1B classification for a specialty occupation. An employer generally files the petition, and H-1B status is typically granted for up to three years and may generally be extended for up to three additional years. For cap-subject cases, USCIS announces an electronic registration period for each fiscal year. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is different: it is an investment-based path to lawful permanent resident status, initially on a conditional basis, and it includes investment and job-creation requirements.
Working in another country can be challenging, especially for an international student. Before graduation, make an appointment with your designated school official and a university career advisor to explore employment options in the United States. For advice about your circumstances, consult a qualified immigration attorney.
We hope this article on work opportunities in the United States for international students is informative and helpful. Feel free to visit our Study in the USA and Available Programs for International Students pages for more information about universities and scholarship opportunities in the country.
