International Student Job Search
Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS)
International students seeking opportunities in the U.S. will require authorization in order to work. Information on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) can be found on the OISS website. If you have any questions about how to request CPT or OPT, or how job/internship opportunities may impact your F-1 or J-1 international student status, please contact your OISS Advisor. Advising appointments can be requested through the OISS portal.
Job/Internship Search Strategies
Job/Internship searching in our current Covid-19 reality may be challenging and/or concerning. As you navigate the next steps, take action, be persistent, be agile, and keep working towards your goals.
- Follow Employers in Handshake, Create Saved Searched, Enable Notifications, Use Keywords such as, "remote" or "virtual". All of these tips can be explored on our Tips for Using Handshake Effectively webpage.
- Utilize GoinGlobal. GoinGlobal helps new and experienced job seekers find opportunities both at home and abroad.
- Reach out directly to employers and inquire about positions that are in Handshake or on employer websites. Sample prospecting email (PDF)
- Network
- Handshake has a filter for OPT/CPT and sponsorship. Be sure to apply these filters to get the most out of your search.
Time zones have always made for challenges in scheduling calls or interviews. While very early or late night calls cannot always be avoided, you can minimize this providing multiple dates with times of availability that provide overlap with traditional business hours of the caller. Visit the International Student Career Planning Guide (PDF) for information on helpful job/internship search resources.
Handling Bias
We recognize that you may be concerned about or even face bias in your search process. This may cause discomfort for you in the form of anger, confusion, sadness, and disappointment. There is no excuse for any hostile, hateful, or discriminatory treatment.
If you have experienced bias and/or discrimination from an employer, related to the reactions and fears of coronavirus, we encourage you to reach out to Northwestern Career Advancement directly as a starting point via email at nca@northwestern.edu.
By contacting NCA, we will be able to provide you support and connect you to other important services on campus, such as CAPS and Campus Inclusion and Community. It will also help us understand where and how bias is occurring, so we can be informed advocates for our international student and scholar community.