Struggling With Internships or Job Offers? Let’s Talk

Hey there!

We know how tough the job market has been lately - especially if you're an international student trying to line up internships, full-time roles, or just make sense of your work authorization options.

You’re not alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: there are students landing offers. There are paths forward. And it starts with understanding your work authorization and showing up - consistently, confidently, and strategically.

Let’s break it down:

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

What is CPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is off-campus work authorization available to F-1 students when practical training is an integral part of the curriculum, such as internships or Co-ops directly related to your field of study. Employment can be paid or unpaid, but must be related to your degree program and approved by your university

Eligibility:

• You must be in valid F-1 status

• Must have completed 1 academic year

• Must have a job offer related to your degree before applying

Part-Time vs. Full-Time CPT:

👉 Pro Tip: Stick to 11 months or less of full-time CPT if you want to protect your full 12-month OPT eligibility.

How to Apply:

1. Get a job offer letter

2. Meet with your DSO

3. Enroll in your program’s CPT/internship course

4. Submit your CPT application

5. Get a new I-20 with CPT authorization - don’t start work until it’s issued

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

What is OPT?
OPT gives F-1 students up to 12 months of work authorization after graduation, in a role that must be directly related to your major. If you have a STEM degree you are eligible for 2 more years of STEM-OPT (total 3 years).

Eligibility:

• Must be in valid F-1 status

• Application is available once per educational level (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD)

Important Timelines:

• Apply up to 90 days before and 60 days after your program ends

• You have a 60-day grace period to remain in the U.S. after your program ends

• Up to 90 days of unemployment is allowed on OPT

Don’t Have a Job Yet?
Choose an OPT start date toward the end of your grace period to buy yourself more job-hunting time. (Just make sure to stay within the unemployment limit.)

How to Apply:

1. Request OPT recommendation from your DSO

2. Receive new I-20 with OPT endorsement

3. File your I-765 online to USCIS

4. Wait for EAD card (3–5 months processing)

5. You can start work only once you have the card in hand and your start date has arrived

Not an current international student? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.

STEM OPT Extension

What is STEM OPT?
A 24-month extension of OPT for students in science, technology, engineering, or math fields. You can work for up to 3 years total on OPT + STEM OPT.

To Apply:

• You must be on post-completion OPT

• Your degree must be on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program list

• Employer must be E-Verify enrolled

• Apply up to 90 days before your regular OPT expires

Submit I-765, updated I-20, and required forms to USCIS; you may continue working for up to 180 days while extension is pending if submitted on time

H-1B Work Visa

What is H-1B?
A U.S. work visa for “specialty occupations” that require at least a bachelor's degree.

How It Works:

• Employers submit H-1B petitions in March

• If selected in the lottery, the visa starts October 1

• Many students use OPT/STEM OPT to bridge the time gap until H-1B kicks in

Annual Limits:

• 65,000 for bachelor’s degree holders

• 20,000 additional for U.S. master’s degree holders

• Higher selection rates for master’s and PhD graduates

Job Application Tips & Encouragement

We get it - job searching can feel like a full-time job in itself. Here are a few strategies to help you push through:

• Check H-1B Databases to ensure that your applications are going to companies that will sponsor you in the future - don’t waste time

• Use ChatGPT to tailor your resume or cover letter to each job description

• Practice behavioral interviews - real confidence comes from preparation

• Reach out to recruiters and alumni on LinkedIn

• Keep your LinkedIn profile active - post about your projects, internships, or experiences

• Keep upskilling: pick up certifications, build personal projects, take online courses

• Stay consistent. Every application is progress.

You’re doing more than enough - even if it doesn’t feel like it yet.

You’ve got this. Roam’s here for you - every step of the way.
If you need a little extra guidance, book a 1:1 mentorship call with an international student expert who’s been through the job search, the visa process, and the “What now?” moments.

👉 Book a Mentorship Call

Best,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡