International Student
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
*questions regarding new 2008 OPT regulations are at the bottom of the page.

What can the Career Center do for me? Do they understand international student’s needs? YES. Our dedicated team of professionals are trained to assist you throughout the career and graduate school search process. See our page on meeting with the Career Center for more details on how the Career Center can assist you!

Can I work while I am still a student? YES! Check out our page on “Visa Issues” for work and internship options while you are still a full-time student.

Can I stay in the United States after I graduate? YES. Most international student visas include a Practical Training period that will allow you to work following graduation. This time is usually measured in months, but can lead to longer-term visa sponsorship by an employer.

What if I want to go home? How can you help me? The Career Center is here to help you understand the process of searching for a career that fits you. This process can yield results whether or not you are planning on returning to your home country. While our resources for a particular country may be limited, we are ready to work with you on coming up with a strategy, identifying resources at home, and finding information on the work market in different countries.

How challenging is it to find a job in the United States?  Finding a job in the U.S. can be challenging for anyone. This process is further complicated for international students due to immigration regulations and quotas. Typically international students can stay for a time immediately following graduation, as long as you complete the right paperwork with ISO and are working or looking for work. Longer-term visa sponsorship by employers is more difficult, but we have staff ready to discuss options with you.

How do I talk to an employer about being an international student? First, it is your choice if you want to bring it up. There are different visa options for working before and immediately following graduation that your employer does not need to sponsor you for. If you decide to discuss visa sponsorship with your employer, know the facts, be positive, and be ready to advocate for yourself. See our page on “Understanding Visa Issues” for more information, and feel free to make an appointment with a Career Center Professional to discuss this question.

Where can I practice my English skills?  The Career Center is happy to help you with verbal interviewing skills. We also assist with resume and cover letter writing, though we may additionally refer you to the Writing Center for assistance. We also strongly recommend taking classes where you will be required to do presentations, write papers, and converse with group members.

What is the H-1B gap?
THE H1B GAP NO LONGER EFFECTS OPT CANDIDATES!!! REGULATIONS AS OF APRIL 2008 INCLUDE AN AUTOMATIC OPT EXTENSION FOR THOSE WHO ARE GRANTED AN H1B VISA THAT GOES INTO EFFECT ON OCTOBER 1 OF THE YEAR O.P.T IS SET TO EXPIRE.

What is the O.P.T. 17-month extension for S.T.E.M. graduates?
Starting in the spring of 2008, students currently in O.P.T status are able to apply for a 17-month extension if they are in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering or Math. This gives such candidates a total O.P.T allowance of 29 months. There are several restrictions on this extension, including paperwork and registration that you employer must fill out. It is important to speak with ISO regarding what you and your employer need to do to qualify for this extension, and it is expected to effect only a small number of O.P.T candidates.

Degree programs included in the STEM fields:
Actuarial Science
Computer Science Applications
Engineering
Engineering Technologies
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Mathematics and Statistics
Military Technologies
Physical Sciences
Science Technologies
Medical Scientist

*please note that Economics does not qualify under Mathematics.
** Also note that the position you are employed in must REQUIRE the S.T.E.M. degree you possess.

Finally, to qualify for a S.T.E.M. extension, the F1/O.P.T student must be employed by or have a job offer from and employer registered with the E-Verify federal employment verification system. Please speak with ISO and your employer about this necessary condition.