How Indian Students Can Benefit from US Education

Students from all over the world come to study in the United States because it is a global hub for higher education. With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, earning a degree in the US is a dream come true for Indian students. Over 331,000 Indian students studied in the US during the 2023–2024 academic year, becoming India the country's top source of international students, according to the most recent Open Doors report (2024).

Any student's résumé benefits greatly from gaining work experience in the United States. It improves professional networking possibilities, cultural competency, and flexibility in addition to offering real-world application of academic information. Additionally, employers around the world highly value US job experience, which could accelerate career advancement. International students with F-1 visas have to handle the difficult work authorization procedure. Under certain circumstances, the F-1 visa permits a restricted number of work opportunities. Before beginning any work, students must validate their eligibility for employment with their Designated School Official (DSO). To make sure that students maintain their visa status, coordination with the university's DSO is crucial.

On-Campus Work Opportunities

During the academic year, F-1 visa holders are permitted to work 20 hours per week on campus; during the summer or university holidays, they are permitted to work up to 40 hours per week. Students can obtain early work experience at their familiar educational institution through this program.

Off-Campus Work Experience Programs

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are the two main programs that let overseas students in the US gain off-campus work experience. Before earning their degree, students can take part in coursework or cooperative education-related programs through CPT. After graduation, OPT permits students to work in their degree-related field for a predetermined amount of time. After graduating with a STEM-designated degree, students may be entitled to petition for STEM-extension OPT, which can last up to an extra 24 months. Post-completion OPT is normally provided for 12 months.

Considerations for International Students

It takes exceptional time management abilities to manage work and school obligations. In order to help students acquire soft skills like time management and other essential abilities that will help them in their studies and employment, US institutions fortunately provide a wide range of support services. In order to help students stand out in the competitive job market, career centers at US institutions offer aid with résumé preparation, interview techniques, and job searches.

Conclusion

US universities provide the resources that build a gateway to career success for international students. From hands-on learning in the classroom to opportunities for on- or off-campus employment, students gain the skills they need to set themselves apart as they enter the workforce. With the support of US universities' international education experts and career center staff, Indian students can reveal their full potential and achieve their career goals.

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