CareerConnect: Work Placement Support
Finding a paid position in the U.S. can be challenging. Therefore, our team helps you connect with U.S. employers for CPT and OPT. We focus on finding paid roles that match your area of study.
Get Hired in the U.S.
EduConnect USA helps international students navigate the complex hiring process. We provide the essential support you need to start your career. Because our primary goal is to make your job search easier, we work hard to connect you with the right opportunities.
Start working towards your future today
We guide students to work opportunities in their chosen fields so you can kickstart your professional journey. With our help, you can confidently step into a role that matches your skills and aspirations. .
Practical Training
Embrace the transformative experience of a dynamic practical training program. This curriculum structure allows you to gain hands-on experience while you pursue your American education. Consequently, this provides a valuable pathway for your professional development. To begin, EduConnect USA conducts an evaluative interview. During this meeting, our work placement director examines your background through a comprehensive assessment. We discuss your departments of interest and review your resume carefully. As a result, we ensure your qualifications perfectly align with our work-study programs.
Career Services
We believe that real-world experience is crucial for success in today’s job market. For this reason, we offer a personalized career service department. Our team finds the right training opportunities so you can gain experience in your chosen field.
First, we work one-on-one with you to provide hiring support. We evaluate your goals, set up placement interviews, and guide you through the work authorization process. Ultimately, we aim to empower you to achieve your dreams of a successful career in the United States.
Our Step-by-Step Approach
1. Evaluation Interview
First, our career service coordinators conduct an interview to examine your background. This assessment includes meaningful discussions about your interests. Additionally, we perform a meticulous review of your resume to confirm your qualifications for our programs.
2. Complete Search Form
Next, you will complete an online search form. This tool helps us gather information about your career goals. Since this form aligns your aspirations with suitable roles, it is a vital part of the process. At this stage, you will also upload your finalized resume so we can better understand your experience.
3. Placement Interviews
Once we receive your form, our coordinator diligently sets up interviews with potential companies. We leverage our established partnerships to identify opportunities that fit your interests. Then, we forward your information to the employer and facilitate all interview arrangements for a seamless process.
4. Hiring Support
If you secure a job offer, our coordinator provides invaluable assistance during the hiring process. We act as a liaison between you and the university. Furthermore, we guide you through the paperwork for work authorization and ensure you remain compliant with all legal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) includes work study options like internships or cooperative education. To be eligible, an F1 student must usually finish one full academic year at an approved U.S. college. However, some graduate students may be exempt from this one-year rule. Finally, you must request authorization from your DSO and receive an endorsed Form I-20 before you begin working.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) refers to temporary employment that directly corresponds to the major field of study pursued by an F-1 student. Students who meet the criteria can apply to obtain employment authorization for a maximum of 12 months, either prior to completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). It’s important to note that any duration of pre-completion OPT will be subtracted from the total period of post-completion OPT available to the student.
What is the difference between part-time and full-time CPT?
Part-Time Training
When you are enrolled in classes and work for 20 hours or less per week, it falls under the category of “part-time” curricular practical training. Consequently, the authorization on your I-20 form should clearly indicate permission for “part-time” training, and it is crucial to ensure that your work hours do not exceed 20 hours per week.
Full-Time Training
Engaging in employment exceeding 20 hours per week is classified as “full-time” curricular practical training, and accordingly, the employment authorization noted on your I-20 form should explicitly state permission for “full-time” training. There is no set duration limit for participating in full-time curricular practical training. However, if you engage in it for twelve months or longer, you will become ineligible for any form of optional practical training, including post-completion practical training.
Please be aware that if your program lacks a specific practicum course or does not offer it during the semester/term for which you seek employment authorization, you will not qualify for Curricular Practical Training. However, you may still qualify for Optional Practical Training.
While immigration regulations present several opportunities for practical training during your time in F-1 status, it is crucial to adhere to proper procedures and obtain authorization. Working improperly or without authorization is a severe violation of your immigration status. The Department of Homeland Security strictly prohibits the issuance of Curricular Practical Training authorization primarily for the purpose of facilitating employment.