Work Rights & PR Pathways

While you study

• On-campus jobs: up to 20 hours a week in term and full time in breaks. These are usually library, lab, dining or department jobs.
• Off-campus work is not allowed by default.
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): work as part of your curriculum, such as an internship or co-op, approved by your school. Some programmes build it in from the first year, so choose carefully.

After graduation: OPT

Optional Practical Training lets graduates work in the field of study for up to 12 months. Graduates of STEM-designated degrees can apply for a 24-month extension. Applications must be filed within specific windows and need the school’s recommendation. The government has discussed new rules and fees for OPT and for how long students may stay, so follow the news before you decide.

Beyond OPT

• H-1B is a skilled-worker visa that needs an employer to sponsor you and is selected by lottery.
• Green card: there is no direct route from study. It usually comes through employment-based sponsorship, which for people born in some countries can take many years.

A sensible approach

Choose the course for the skills and the job market, not only for the visa. A STEM degree, a school with strong career services and early internships make the biggest difference.

Check before you rely on it. OPT, STEM OPT, duration of status and H-1B rules are being reviewed and can change quickly. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Study in the States pages or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.

Talk to WIEC about the USA

Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.