Hiring International Students
International students bring valuable perspectives, experiences, language skills, and global connections to the workplace. Concordia College students in F-1 status may be eligible to gain professional experience in the United States through employment authorization connected to their academic program.
For employers, hiring an international student does not necessarily require visa sponsorship. Eligible students may be authorized to complete internships through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and work after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Eligible F-1 students can complete internships and other practical experiences in the United States through Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
At Concordia, CPT is available after a student has completed at least one full academic year. The internship must be part of the student's educational program, and students must receive CPT authorization before beginning work.
Students work with Concordia College and their international student advisor to complete the required steps and receive authorization before beginning their internship.
What does this mean for employers?
Visa sponsorship is not required when hiring a student who has been authorized for an internship through CPT.
Employers can help by:
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Discussing work authorization early in the hiring process
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Clearly communicating the position's responsibilities, schedule, and duration
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Giving students time to complete the required authorization process before employment begins
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Eligible F-1 students may be able to work in the United States after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT provides temporary employment authorization for practical training directly related to a student's major or field of study.Does hiring a student through OPT require employer sponsorship?
Employers do not need to provide visa sponsorship to hire a student during their authorized OPT period.
The student is responsible for obtaining employment authorization through USCIS and maintaining their eligibility to work. If an employer is considering continuing employment after a student's OPT authorization ends, additional immigration requirements may apply.
What Employers Should Know
Hiring an international student can be a great way to bring new perspectives and experiences to your organization. If you're considering an international student for an internship or full-time position:
Start the conversation early. Discuss work authorization timelines as part of the hiring process so both you and the student understand what is needed before employment begins.
Be clear about the position. Provide information about the role, responsibilities, work location, schedule, and anticipated length of employment. These details may be important when determining a student's eligibility for employment authorization.
Encourage students to connect with their international student advisor. Students are responsible for understanding and maintaining their employment authorization. Their international student advisor can help them determine what authorization they need and what steps they must complete.
Don't assume sponsorship is required. Eligible F-1 students may be able to complete internships through CPT or work after graduation through OPT without employer sponsorship.
Learn More
Immigration regulations and employment authorization requirements can change. Employers should consult current information from official sources and seek qualified legal counsel for specific immigration-related questions.
Additional resources include:
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — Information about employment authorization and OPT
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NAFSA: Association of International Educators — Resources related to international student employment
Interested in Hiring Concordia Students?
Interested in recruiting Concordia students? Learn more about Handshake, our primary platform for connecting employers with Concordia students, and find information about posting positions, events, and more.