By Karan Lalit

The U.S. leads the world in higher education with a rich diversity of undergraduate and graduate degrees. It’s a global hub of creativity, research, and innovation where students gain not just knowledge, but a pathway to thriving careers.

Indian students understand the value of a U.S. education: more than 331,000 Indian students studied in the USA for the 2023/2024 academic year, according to the latest Open Doors report (2024).

India was the largest deliverer of international students to the U.S. for the year, with most of those students pursuing graduate degrees. Indian students understand the benefits of enrolling at a U.S. university, especially the value for their future careers.

U.S. universities are the gateway to career preparation and opportunities for international students. As students engage in their degree programs, most often with hands-on learning experiences, they learn the practical skills for their future professions.

Furthermore, students can access a variety of services across U.S. campuses, from visa guidance to career center resources to job fairs to networking with successful alumni and company leaders. These benefits, along with the pedigree of a U.S. university diploma, give international students the knowledge and guidance needed to secure internships, Optional Practical Training positions, or full-time employment.

Benefits of employment in the U.S.

Gaining work experience in the United States offers numerous benefits for Indian students. It allows for practical application of academic knowledge, enhances cultural competence and adaptability, provides opportunities for professional networking, offers financial support to offset study costs, and can lead to career advancement opportunities. A U.S. work experience is often highly coveted by employers worldwide, potentially accelerating career progression.

Navigating the work authorization process

When aspiring to pursue higher education in the U.S., international students must possess an F-1 visa. This non-immigrant visa is devised for students desiring full-time status at accredited U.S. universities that are certified by the Student and Exchange Visa Program.

While its chief function is educational, the F-1 visa also provides limited employment opportunities under a set of specific conditions. Students must contact their Designated School Official (DSO) to confirm their work eligibility before starting any job.

Navigating the work authorization process in the U.S. is complex and requires proper attention to detail. Students must coordinate with their university’s DSO to ensure that they remain in status for their visas.

Additionally, they must carefully fill in the required immigration forms and strictly adhere to visa regulations. Any violation of these terms can result in serious consequences, including visa revocation and potential deportation. Before securing any employment, an international student should meet with the university DSO to verify that all forms and details are complete. Additionally, students should refer to the U.S.

Campus work

F-1 visa holders are allowed to work on campus for 20 hours per week during the academic period and are allowed to work up to 40 hours per week during a university holiday or summer breaks. This program allows students to gain early work experience at their familiar educational institution.

Off-campus work experience programs

Off-campus work experience for international students in the United States is facilitated primarily through two major programs: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

CPT allows students to participate in a coursework or cooperative education-related program before they complete their degree.

OPT allows students to work in their degree-related field for a set period after graduation. Post-completion OPT is typically granted for 12 months. Students who graduate with STEM-designated degrees may be eligible to apply for STEM-extension OPT, which can last up to an additional 24 months.

Considerations for international students

Balancing academic responsibilities with work commitments requires excellent time management skills. Fortunately, U.S. universities offer extensive support services to help students learn soft skills like time management and other necessary skills that will aid them in their education and in their careers.

Furthermore, U.S. universities house career centers to help students in job searches and share details about workplace etiquette. Additionally, these career centers will assist students with resume writing and interview skills, which are integral to help students distinguish themselves from others in the competitive market for on-campus positions as well as for off-campus roles when they are eligible, including CPT and OPT roles.

Conclusion

U.S. universities provide the resources that build a gateway to career success for international students. From hands-on learning in the classroom to opportunities for on- or off-campus employment, students will gain the skills they need to set themselves apart as they enter the workforce. With the support of U.S. universities’ international education experts and their career center staff, along with their expert faculty, students can be assured that they will be prepared for their futures.

(Author is VP Global Sales North America & South America, Study Group)

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