Visa, Work Authorization & Search Tools
For official information about F-1 and J-1 employment, visit the ISSO website, including the CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT pages, and contact ISSO with specific questions about your status.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows eligible F-1 students to gain work experience that is integral to their program of study, often through internships or co-ops authorized during your degree.
Your internship must meet ISSO and academic requirements; you must receive authorization before starting any off-campus work.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides work authorization related to your field of study, typically used for full-time roles after graduation or for qualifying pre-completion experiences.
Eligible STEM graduates may apply for a STEM OPT extension, which can extend their total period of OPT when working in qualifying roles.
Use GoinGlobal to research international job markets, global employers, and H-1B/OPT-related information as you plan where to apply.
Career advisers and Career Placement Officers can help you strategize your search, understand typical timelines, and talk with employers about recruiting processes, but they cannot provide immigration advising; those questions must go to ISSO.