¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ

We¡¯ve funded 20,000+ educational dreams ¡ª and fund yours with loans up to US$100,000! We¡¯ve funded 20,000+ educational dreams ¡ª and fund yours!

Jobs for international students in the USA: How to build experience and start your career

Learn more

Landing a job while studying or after graduating in the U.S. can feel challenging, but international students have more pathways than ever before. Whether you¡¯re looking for part-time work during school or aiming for a full-time role after graduation, understanding your options is key to navigating international student employment?successfully.

This article breaks down where to find jobs, how to stay compliant with visa rules and how to position yourself for career success as an international student in the United States.

Types of jobs available for international students

Your employment options depend heavily on your visa status and where you are in your academic journey. Here¡¯s a breakdown:

On-campus jobs

In your first academic year under F-1 visa status, you¡¯re typically limited to on-campus employment. Roles could include working in the library, IT help desk, admissions office or research labs. You¡¯re generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during semesters.

Curricular practical training (CPT) opportunities

After your first academic year, CPT allows you to take internships or practical training related to your major. Many U.S. internships for international students?are offered through CPT agreements with universities.

Optional practical training (OPT)

OPT allows you to work off campus in a job directly related to your major for up to 12 months after graduation. Students who major in fields listed as STEM OPT majors?may qualify for a 24-month extension, giving them up to three years of U.S. work authorization.

Graduate jobs in the U.S. for international students

Many international students use OPT or STEM OPT to transition into full-time, professional roles after completing a postgraduate degree. Fields like technology, engineering, health care, finance and data science offer strong prospects for graduate-level employment.

An international student attends a virtual job search webinar in a dorm room, taking notes on OPT job strategies.

Explore Immigration Tips

Have questions about the visa process? MPOWER's immigration resources are for students like you.

Learn More

Where to find job opportunities for international students

Finding a job isn¡¯t just about applying randomly ¨C it¡¯s about targeting the right international student job opportunities?where employers understand and value international talent.

University career centers

Most universities have career centers specifically supporting international student employment. These offices can help you with resume preparation, CPT/OPT workshops and connecting to employers who routinely hire international graduates.

Job boards focused on international students

Websites like Interstride, Myvisajobs and GoinGlobal list job opportunities for international students, including internships and full-time roles. Many allow you to filter positions by eligibility for CPT or OPT jobs for international students.

Employer partnerships and alumni networks

Universities often partner with companies known for hiring international students. Attending networking events, career fairs and alumni meetups can give you direct access to recruiters who understand F-1 visa hiring requirements.

STEM-specific opportunities

If you¡¯re pursuing a degree that falls under the STEM OPT majors list, you have an advantage. Industries like tech, biotech, engineering and analytics are not only hiring aggressively but are also more familiar with the visa requirements for international talent.

Tips for successfully finding a job as an international student

The U.S. job market values persistence, preparation and strategic networking. Here¡¯s how to strengthen your job search:

1. Start early

Begin researching international student internships?and job opportunities at least six months before you plan to work. Early preparation is crucial, especially if you need CPT or OPT approval.

2. Customize every application

Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application. Emphasize your skills, international perspective and any technical expertise ¨C especially if you¡¯re studying in a STEM OPT major.

3. Understand employer expectations

Some employers are unfamiliar with hiring international students. During interviews, be prepared to explain your visa status and work authorization clearly.

4. Leverage internships into full-time roles

Many students use U.S. internships for international students as stepping stones to longer-term employment. Building a strong relationship with your internship employer can increase your chances of receiving a job offer after graduation.

5. Stay compliant

Always maintain a valid visa status while working. Work only within the conditions of your CPT, OPT or STEM OPT approval to avoid jeopardizing your ability to remain in the U.S.

A whiteboard filled with CPT and OPT job search notes, resume tips, and a student planning their U.S. job search strategy.

MPOWER Financing: Helping you prepare for your career

MPOWER Financing supports international students not just through affordable loans, but also through career development resources designed to help you land jobs after graduation. MPOWER Financing recognizes that earning a degree is just the beginning ¨C you need real-world experience to launch your career.

Whether you¡¯re juggling CPT, working on campus or earning income online, MPOWER gives you breathing room ¨C with options for student loans that are:

  • Flexible: Borrow only what you need, starting at US$2,001.
  • Accessible: No U.S. cosigner or collateral is required.
  • Fast: Check your eligibility in just 30 seconds, then apply online.

But it¡¯s not just the loan that makes the difference.

Through MPOWER¡¯s Path2Success program, you¡¯ll also get:

  • A free visa support letter for your study permit
  • Access to a CPT and OPT job search tool
  • Resume builders and job application tools tailored for F-1 students
  • Resources to help you find graduate jobs in the U.S. for international students?in STEM, finance, health care and more

MPOWER Financing student loan

A loan based on your future earnings

FAQs

Can international students work off campus during their first year in the U.S.?

No. During your first academic year under an F-1 visa, you are generally restricted to on-campus employment. Off-campus work becomes available through CPT and OPT after one academic year.

How do I find U.S. internships for international students?

Use university career centers, job boards focused on international student employment and attend career fairs. Internships found through CPT can later lead to full-time opportunities.

What are STEM OPT majors and why are they important?

STEM OPT majors are degree programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics that qualify graduates for an additional 24-month OPT extension, allowing for longer work authorization in the U.S.

Is it hard to find job opportunities for international students?

While the process can be competitive, many U.S. employers hire international students, especially in high-demand fields like tech, engineering and finance. Early preparation and targeting the right employers improve your chances.

Can I stay in the U.S. after my OPT period ends?

You may be eligible for a STEM OPT extension if you studied in an eligible major. After OPT or STEM OPT, many students transition to employment-based visas like the H-1B if sponsored by an employer.


*Rates as low as 9.99% (11.16% APR). This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

2025 ? MPOWER Financing, Public Benefit Corporation NMLS ID #1233542

U.S. office India office
1101 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036 The Cube at Karle Town Center, 9th Floor, 100 Ft, Nada Prabhu Kempe Gowda Main Road, Next to Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045, India