By Karan Lalit

The United States leads the world in higher education with a rich diversity of undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is a global hub of creativity, research and innovation where students not only gain knowledge, but also a pathway to thriving careers.

Indian students understand the value of an American education: More than 331,000 Indian students studied in the United States for the 2023/2024 academic year, according to the latest Open Doors report (2024).

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India was the largest provider of international students to the United States this year, with most of these students pursuing graduate degrees. Indian students understand the benefits of enrolling in an American university, especially the value for their future careers.

American universities are the gateway to career preparation and opportunity for international students. As students engage in their programs of study, most often with hands-on learning experiences, they acquire the practical skills necessary for their future professions.

Additionally, students can access a variety of services on U.S. campuses, from visa counseling and career center resources to career fairs and alumni networking at success and business leaders. These benefits, along with the pedigree of a U.S. college degree, give international students the knowledge and guidance needed to secure internships, optional practical training positions, or full-time employment.

Benefits of employment in the United States

Gaining work experience in the United States offers many benefits to Indian students. It enables practical application of academic knowledge, improves cultural competence and adaptability, provides professional networking opportunities, provides financial support to offset study costs, and can lead to career advancement opportunities. Work experience in the United States is often highly sought after by employers around the world, which can accelerate career progression.

Navigating the work authorization process

When aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States, international students must have an F-1 visa. This nonimmigrant visa is designed for students seeking full-time status at U.S. universities accredited and certified by the Student and Exchange Visa Program.

Although its primary function is educational, the F-1 visa also offers limited employment opportunities under a specific set of conditions. Students should contact their Designated School Official (DSO) to confirm their eligibility for work before beginning employment.

Navigating the work authorization process in the United States is complex and requires careful attention to detail. Students should coordinate with their university’s DSO to ensure they maintain their visa status.

Additionally, they must carefully complete the required immigration forms and strictly adhere to visa regulations. Any violation of these conditions may result in serious consequences, including visa revocation and possible deportation. Before securing employment, an international student must meet with the university’s DSO to verify that all forms and details are complete. Additionally, students should refer to the United States

Work on campus

F-1 visa holders are permitted to work on campus 20 hours per week during academic term and are permitted to work up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks or summer vacations. This program allows students to gain initial work experience in their familiar educational institution.

Off-campus work experience programs

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

The CPT allows students to participate in courses or a program related to cooperative education before graduating.

OPT allows students to work in their degree-related field for a specified period of time after graduation. Post-completion OPT is generally granted for 12 months. Students who earn a STEM-designated degree may be eligible to apply for the STEM Extension OPT, which can last up to an additional 24 months.

Considerations for international students

Balancing academic responsibilities and professional commitments requires excellent time management skills. Fortunately, American universities offer extensive support services to help students learn soft skills such as time management and other necessary skills that will help them in their studies and careers.

Additionally, American universities house career centers to help students with their job search and share details about workplace etiquette. Additionally, these career centers will help students learn resume writing and interview skills, which are essential in helping students stand out from others in the competition. walk for on-campus positions as well as off-campus roles where eligible, including CPT and OPT roles.

Conclusion

American universities provide the resources that enable international students to succeed in their careers. From hands-on learning in the classroom to job opportunities on or off campus, students will learn the skills they need to stand out when they enter the job market. With the support of America’s universities’ international education experts and career center staff, as well as their expert professors, students can rest assured that they will be prepared for their future.

(The author is vice president of global sales for North America and South America, study group)

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