Hiring International Students
Brooklyn College international students may be eligible to work in the United States through several temporary employment and training authorizations. Below is an overview of the most common employment pathways, with a focus on what employers need to know and do for each option.
Hiring Guide
Legal Notice: This guide is not intended to and does not serve as legal advice; it is for informational purposes only. The Office of International Student and Scholar Services serves Brooklyn College international students directly and does not give immigration advice or respond to questions from employers. Content is subject to change. Employers are advised to consult an experienced U.S. immigration attorney with any additional questions.
Why Hire International Students?
Brooklyn College’s international students represent 90 countries and pursue a diverse array of degrees and career goals. They possess qualities that top employers seek:
- Global perspectives with diverse viewpoints and experiences
- Multilingual and cross-cultural communication skills that are vital for companies to compete in a global economy
- Effective leadership and teamwork skills along with the ability to adapt to changes and persevere
- Education taught by industry leaders
The majority of international students are in F-1 or J-1 immigration status that includes off-campus work authorization benefits during and after the academic program. The remainder of this guide provides an overview of these work authorization options along with long-term employment visa options and resources. We hope the information will help to clarify and streamline the hiring process of international students.
Important Note
Employers should note that a Social Security number alone is not sufficient proof of work authorization for international students. It is critical that employers confirm an international student’s work authorization prior to the employment start date to prevent any liability for the student and the employer in the future.
Academic Training (AT)
J‑1 Students — During or After Degree Completion
Academic Training allows J‑1 students to gain paid or unpaid work experience directly related to their field of study. It can take place during a student’s program or after graduation and is authorized by Brooklyn College.
Employer Role
- Provide a written offer of employment related to the student’s academic field
- Review the student’s DS‑2019 showing Academic Training authorization for Form I‑9 purposes
- No sponsorship, fees, or government filings are required
- Employment may begin only after Academic Training has been approved and documented on the DS‑2019
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
F‑1 Students — During Degree Program
Curricular Practical Training authorizes off‑campus employment that is an integral part of an F‑1 student’s curriculum, such as internships or required practical experience.
Employer role
- Provide a job or internship offer directly related to the student’s major
- Review the student’s CPT‑authorized I‑20 for Form I‑9 verification
- Ensure the student works only for the employer, dates, and hours listed on the I‑20
- No sponsorship, filing fees, or legal involvement is required
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
F‑1 Students — After Degree Completion
OPT allows F‑1 students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in positions related to their field of study after completing their academic program.
Employer role
- Review the student’s Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) for Form I‑9 purposes
- No sponsorship or immigration filing is required
- A job offer is not required for OPT approval
- The employer is not responsible for monitoring the student’s immigration status beyond standard I‑9 compliance
STEM OPT Extension
F‑1 Students — 24‑Month Extension of OPT
Eligible F‑1 students with STEM‑designated degrees may apply for a 24‑month extension of OPT, allowing up to 36 months of total work authorization.
Employer role
- Be enrolled in E‑Verify and provide the E‑Verify company identification number
- Provide a qualifying job directly related to the student’s STEM degree
- Report the end of the student’s employment to Brooklyn College if it occurs before the authorized end date
- No application fees or petition filings are required
Additional information about STEM opportunities at Brooklyn College.
H‑1B Temporary Worker Visa
The H‑1B is an employer‑sponsored visa for long‑term employment in a specialty occupation requiring specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
To learn more about employers in the United States to temporarily employ foreign workers, visit the H-1B Employer Data Hub.
Employer role
- Sponsor the employee and initiate the H‑1B petition
- Retain an immigration attorney to prepare and file the petition
- Pay required legal and USCIS filing fees
- Comply with wage, reporting, and timing requirements
- File petitions on time, typically as part of the annual H‑1B cap process
Support for Employers
The Office of International Student and Scholar Services‘ mission is to enhance the academic experiences of international students and scholars by providing the highest levels of knowledge and expertise in advising, immigration services, advocacy, and programming to the Brooklyn College campus community.
Our office seeks to empower students with the knowledge they need to navigate their visa status, including seeking and obtaining the authorization to work. This information pertains to Brooklyn College students only and may not apply to students at other institutions.