OPT Jobs

As a foreign student studying in the United States, finding a job can be a daunting task. The OPT program, also known as Optional Practical Training, provides international students with the opportunity to work in the United States for up to one year after graduation.

In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate guide for OPT jobs in the USA.

Understanding OPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows international students studying in the United States to work in their field of study for up to one year after graduation. This program is a great opportunity for foreign students to gain real-world experience in the United States and enhance their skills. OPT is available to students who have completed their degree and are in good academic standing.

Eligibility for OPT

To be eligible for OPT, you must be a full-time student who has completed at least one academic year of study. You must also be in good academic standing and maintain your F-1 visa status. Additionally, your degree program must be related to your field of work.

Applying for OPT

To apply for OPT, you must first meet with your Designated School Official (DSO) and receive a recommendation for OPT. After receiving the recommendation, you can submit an application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can apply up to 90 days before your graduation date, and USCIS can take up to 90 days to process your application.

Finding OPT Jobs

Once you have received your OPT work authorization, you can begin your job search. There are several resources available to help you find OPT jobs in the United States, including:

Your university’s career center

Online job boards, such as Indeed and Glassdoor
Professional networking sites, such as LinkedIn
Industry-specific job boards and websites
It is important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you are applying for and to highlight your OPT work authorization.

OPT Extension

If you are working in a field related to your degree and your employer is willing to sponsor you, you may be eligible for a 24-month OPT extension. To be eligible for the extension, you must have received a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field and be working for an employer enrolled in E-Verify.

The OPT

The OPT program provides international students with a great opportunity to gain work experience in the United States after graduation. By understanding the eligibility requirements and utilizing the resources available, foreign students can successfully navigate the OPT program and find employment in their field of study.

How to Find Jobs in USA for Foreigners

How to Build LinkedIn Connections for Jobs in the USA as a Foreigner

As a foreigner looking for job opportunities in the USA, it can be challenging to know where to start. However, one of the best places to start is LinkedIn, a professional social network with over 740 million members in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building connections and finding job opportunities, but how can you effectively use it as a foreigner looking for work in the USA?

Optimize Your Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume and your first impression on potential employers. As a foreigner, it is essential to optimize your profile to make it easier for recruiters to find you. Make sure that your profile includes a professional profile picture and a compelling headline that highlights your skills and experience. Also, customize your LinkedIn URL to make it easy to share with potential employers. Another crucial aspect of your LinkedIn profile is your summary section. Use this section to provide a brief overview of your skills, experience, and goals. Use relevant keywords in your summary to increase the chances of recruiters finding you.

Join Groups

LinkedIn groups are an excellent way to build connections with people in your industry. Join relevant groups and actively participate in discussions to build relationships with other professionals. Remember that joining groups is not just about connecting with people. It’s also an opportunity to learn from industry experts and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and news.

Connect with Recruiters

Connecting with recruiters is a great way to get your foot in the door for job opportunities. Search for recruiters in your industry, and send them a personalized message introducing yourself and your experience. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and let them know that you are actively looking for job opportunities in the USA.

Engage with Your Network

Engaging with your network is essential for building and maintaining relationships. Be sure to congratulate your connections on their work anniversaries and job changes. Also, like and comment on their posts to show that you are engaged and interested in their work. Remember that building relationships takes time, and it’s essential to be patient and consistent in your efforts.

Share Your Expertise

Finally, sharing your expertise is an excellent way to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. Write articles and share them on LinkedIn, or post about industry trends and news. Sharing your expertise is an excellent way to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry and increase your visibility on LinkedIn. In conclusion, LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building connections and finding job opportunities in the USA as a foreigner. By optimizing your profile, joining groups, connecting with recruiters, engaging with your network, and sharing your expertise, you can effectively use LinkedIn to find job opportunities and build a successful career in the USA.