Tips to Get a Job as an International Student in USA

The idea of getting a job after graduation is perhaps one of the most important concerns. Finding a job after graduation requires a lot of effort, whether your goal is to return to your native country or pursue a career here in the US.

Many businesses may be reluctant to sponsor international students because the process can be costly and time-consuming. Additionally, there is a greater risk that if the new hire doesn’t work out, all that time and money will have been wasted. You must stay on top of the rules and regulations surrounding visas, which can be complex and confusing.

In light of that, here are our top 7 suggestions on how international students can get a job after college.

Tip #1 – International Students Must Plan Ahead

Don’t wait till after graduation to start your career search. Start your job hunt well before you graduate as you get closer to finishing your degree. Ask the counsellors in your college’s career centre what resources and help are available for international students.

Check to see if you can participate in an internship with a company that will sponsor work visas. This gives you more time to build relationships and increase your chances of receiving sponsorship after graduation, in addition to giving you the ability to get your foot in the door and get experience.

Important: We advise that you begin planning at least a year beforehand.

Remember that employers aren’t simply interested in a candidate’s academic performance; in addition to the job search process itself, you need make sure that you are prepared in other areas as well. Even if you are a graduate without any formal work experience, employers are still seeking for experience and transferrable abilities.

There are activities you can engage in to display non-academic talents while you are studying, such as serving in a leadership capacity in a club or organisation, organising or planning an event or conference, and tutoring or teaching other students.

Tip #2 – Know the rules and regulations

The more knowledgeable you are about the visa application process, your options, prices, and deadlines, the more prepared and self-assured you will be while applying for jobs. Try to learn more about the organisations that sponsor visas, the requirements for obtaining authorisation, and the length of the procedure.

Reminder: You find out the most recent requirements for obtaining a work visa, make sure to consult authorised government sources.

Tip #3 – Use your resources wisely

The International Students Office and Career Development Center at your institution are the ideal places to begin your planning. These resources can inform you about your specific prospects as well as more general information about what to do after graduation.

You can get assistance from the career services at your institution, who most likely have a lot of experience working with overseas students. You might try scheduling a meeting with a career coach to go over your unique circumstances and objectives. Attend employment fairs, speak with recruiters there, form connections, and keep in touch with them to follow up on prospective interviews.

There are tools online that provide information on businesses that have previously sponsored overseas workers and are more likely to do so again. You can also conduct research by making a list of companies that interest you and finding out if they are open to recruiting international students.

Tip #4 – Timing is everything

Typically, as an overseas student, you have 60 days from the time you graduate to enrol in another college programme for additional study or in an OPT (Optional Practical Training) programme to start working right away on an F-1 visa. You will have to leave the US if this doesn’t happen in 60 days.

While you work, train, or intern in your field of study, you can extend your F-1 visa status for a year under the OPT programme. You should apply well in advance of graduation because it can take several months to get accepted into an OPT programme.

You will require an employer to sponsor you for an H-1b non-immigrant visa if you intend to stay in the US for an extended period of time. You are able to work for that company for another three years with this visa.

The best advise is to start this process early and conduct as much research as you can because finding a company that will sponsor you for an H-1b visa can be difficult.

Tip #5 – Network, meet people, establish connections

Early networking is the key to finding your future employer. Solid relationships help fill about 70% of open positions. Utilize the alumni networks at your college to speak with people who have undergone similar experiences. Become friends with your teachers or even the parents of your schoolmates.

When applicable, ask others for their opinions and information on any available employment positions while also discussing your professional interests, ambitions, and aspirations.

You can also get a head start by participating in CPT (Curricular Practical Training) internships and going to career fairs. For non-immigrant foreign students with F-1 visas studying in the United States while enrolled in a college-level degree programme, CPT is a type of temporary employment authorisation.

In accordance with the rules set forth by US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the international students office at your university or college grants permission for CPT.

Tip #6 – Work on an outstanding resume for job search

Make sure your resume is current and includes a complete summary of your accomplishments and work history. Be upbeat and try to stand out when speaking with prospective employers by emphasising your special strengths. Don’t send a generic CV to every job you apply for; instead, take the time to learn more about the firm and the position and customise your cover letter for each.

Remember that your resume is more than simply a piece of paper or an email attachment these days. Don’t forget that you can develop your profile on your website or on professional networking sites like LinkedIn.

When you meet people at networking events and interviews, try to create a fascinating tale to go along with your resume so that you can engage and intrigue people while also showcasing your professionalism and passion.

Tip #7 – Stay positive and be persistent

It can be very irritating to put a lot of time into the job search process without seeing any results. Make certain not to give up. Employers will be more willing to invest in you if you smile and are confident in your talents.

Keep in mind that getting accepted to your ideal college wasn’t simple, but you managed to do it. If and when you are successful in landing a job after graduation in the USA, all of your hard work, study, unanswered applications, and rejections will have been worthwhile.