Work Opportunities & OPT/STEM OPT in the USA 2026
On-Campus Jobs, CPT, OPT & Post-Study Work Rules Explained
Feb 14, 2026
Can International Students Work in the USA?
Yes. International students on an F-1 visa are allowed to work under specific conditions.
Work authorization depends on the type of employment and immigration rules.
Students must always maintain valid F-1 status.
On-Campus Work
F-1 students may:
Work up to 20 hours per week during academic term
Work full-time during official breaks
On-campus jobs may include:
Library assistant
Research assistant
Administrative roles
Campus dining services
On-campus work does not require special immigration approval beyond F-1 status.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT allows students to work in roles related to their academic program.
CPT may include:
Internships
Cooperative education
Practicum experiences
CPT must be authorized by the university and directly related to the student’s field of study.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT allows students to gain work experience after completing their degree.
Students may apply for:
Up to 12 months of OPT
OPT must be directly related to the student’s major.
Students must apply for work authorization through USCIS.
STEM OPT Extension
Students in eligible STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs may apply for:
24-month STEM OPT extension
This extends total OPT duration up to 36 months.
Employer requirements and reporting rules apply.
Average Entry-Level Salaries in the USA
Salaries vary widely depending on field and location.
High-demand sectors include:
Technology
Engineering
Healthcare
Finance
Data Science
Compensation depends on industry, state, and employer.
Transition to Work Visa
After OPT or STEM OPT, graduates may pursue:
H-1B Work Visa (subject to employer sponsorship)
Other employment-based immigration pathways
Approval depends on employer sponsorship and immigration policies.
Important Work Rules
Students must:
Maintain full-time enrollment during studies
Work only within authorized categories
Follow reporting requirements
Avoid unauthorized employment
Violation of work rules may affect visa status.
Is the USA Good for Long-Term Career Growth?
The USA offers:
Strong job market
High earning potential
Global corporate presence
Research and innovation ecosystem
International career exposure
Students in STEM and business fields often benefit from strong post-study employment opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The USA provides structured work opportunities through on-campus jobs, CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT extensions.
With proper planning and compliance with immigration rules, students can gain valuable professional experience after graduation.
For students seeking global career exposure, the USA remains one of the strongest destinations in 2026.