International students will typically need to obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization in order to work. The authorization process is primarily handled by the University of Michigan’s International Center.
Use these buttons to explore the full details regarding Work Authorization in the U.S.
CPT: Curricular Practical Training
F-1 students seeking off-campus work while enrolled at Taubman College will need to obtain CPT. An offer letter is required before you apply for CPT. The Career & Professional Development team can assist with job searching and interview preparation before you receive your offer letter.
The application process typically takes 1-2 weeks from the time your materials are submitted. Students should refer to the Academic Procedures for Work Authorization and to the International Center website (using the button above) to learn more about the application process.
There is no cost associated with applying for CPT.
OPT: Optional Practical Training
F-1 students seeking to work in the U.S. after graduation from Taubman College will need to obtain OPT. An offer letter is not required to apply for OPT. The Career & Professional Development team can assist with job searching and interview preparation before you receive an offer letter.
The application process typically takes at least 90 days from the time your materials are submitted. It is important to clearly understand the timelines of the allowable gap between graduation and finding work, as well as understanding rules surrounding the EAD card to stay in Visa compliance. Students should refer to the Academic Procedures for Work Authorization and to the International Center website (using the button above) to learn more about the application process.
The cost of filing Form I-765 with USCIS is $410. Additional information about the application process can be found via the International Center website or the USCIS website.
STEM Extension
Graduates from all Taubman College degree programs are eligible for STEM OPT, which provides a 24-month extension of the standard post-completion OPT. Students are strongly encouraged to review the eligibility criteria on the International Center website when applying for STEM OPT.
H-1B Visa
Some international students may seek to obtain an H-1B visa to work in the United States after graduating from Taubman College. The H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire temporary workers in specialty occupations. You cannot apply for an H-1B visa yourself – you must be sponsored by your employer.
Sponsorship is awarded via a lottery system. There are 65,000 visas available each year for those with at least a bachelor’s degree, as well as an additional 20,000 visas for those with graduate level degrees.
This blog post from Interstride outlines some of the finer details related to H-1B sponsorship. If you have questions about H-1B sponsorship, considering making an appointment with the International Center. If you have questions about discussing H-1B sponsorship with potential employers during the job search process, please schedule an appointment with the Career & Professional Development team.