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Study Abroad Content Specialist
The Optional Practical Training period is ideal for gaining relevant work experience for Indian students in USA. However, finding a job that matches your skills while meeting OPT regulations can be difficult. Last year, 276,452 students were authorized for post-completion OPT in USA. Additionally, 122,101 students received authorization for STEM OPT extension.
International students often struggle to secure a job in their OPT period due to limited guidance and competitive job markets. Indian students are advised to follow a stepwise procedure to secure OPT jobs at the earliest. This includes crafting a resume, utilizing OPT-specific job portals, and following timelines. The OPT job search timeline is provided below:
OPT Job Search Steps
You are eligible to work in USA if your OPT has been approved, or you are waiting for your OPT card. Here are some key steps to begin your OPT job search:
- Step 1: Create a Professional Resume:
- Ensure your resume includes sections on Education, Internships, Skills, and Work Experience.
- Focus on clarity, relevancy, and simplicity. Avoid lengthy descriptions; instead, you can highlight key achievements and skills that align with your field.
- If you are unsure about the quality of your resume, you can consider using professional services like United OPT Resume Writers to make it more appealing.
- Step 2: Identify OPT-Friendly Job Portals:
- Compile a list of OPT-specific job portals such as MyVisaJobs, United OPT, and OPT Nation.
- Register on each portal with a memorable ID and password for easy access.
- Upload your resume and create a profile on each platform. Tailor your job search by selecting job titles and keywords that align with your academic background and desired H-1B visa sponsorship.
- Step 3: Develop a Skills-Based Application Strategy:
- List your technical and interpersonal skills along with your areas of expertise. Use this list to apply for roles that fit both your skillset and degree.
- Prioritize jobs that align with your major and that may offer H-1B sponsorship, increasing your chances of long-term employment in USA.
Also Explore: MBA Jobs in USA
OPT Job Search Portals
Here’s a quick comparison of popular job portals that specifically cater to OPT candidates:
| Job Portal | Key Features | Target Industries |
|---|---|---|
| Wide network and employer reach | Various industries | |
| Indeed | General job portal with OPT-friendly jobs | General |
| MyVisaJobs | Detailed H-1B sponsor information | IT, Engineering, Finance |
| United OPT | Resume marketing services | General |
| OPT Nation | OPT job listings, resume distribution | Healthcare, Business, IT |
USA OPT Job Application Steps
The step-by-step process of applying to OPT visa jobs in USA is provided below:
- Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials: Once your resume is polished and uploaded on major job portals, you can focus on applying for positions. Make sure each application highlights relevant skills and experiences to increase response rates.
Also Check: How to Write a Resume With No Experience
- Step 2: Stay Organized with a Job Application Tracker: Track all of your applications, including company name, job title, date applied, and response status. This can help you follow up appropriately. You can also observe your progress to stay motivated.
- Step 3: Avoid Third-Party Consultancy and Staffing Companies: Many consultancy firms are nowadays adding fake experience or engage in unauthorized practices. This can risk your US work visa status. Focus on direct applications or positions advertised by verified employers.
- Step 4: Consider Resume Marketing Services: If responses are limited, you can seek assistance from professional resume marketing services like United OPT. They can help by actively promoting your profile to relevant recruiters and employers in the OPT market.
OPT Requirements: Pre-Completion vs Post-Completion OPT
To be eligible for OPT employment, Indian students must abide by a set of eligibility criteria. Below are the necessary requirements for pre-completion and post-completion OPT employment:
| Criteria | Pre-Completion OPT | Post-Completion OPT |
|---|---|---|
| Work Hours | Part-time (up to 20 hrs/week) | Full-time (20+ hrs/week) |
| Unemployment Days Allowed | No limit | Up to 90 days |
| Employment Types | Paid, unpaid, multiple employers | Paid, unpaid, multiple employers |
| Reporting Requirements | No employer reporting required | Employer information must be reported |
How to Manage OPT Unemployment Period?
On post-completion OPT, students are permitted to be unemployed for up to 90 days. Failing to secure a job within this period can result in the loss of your OPT status. Here is a guide on managing the unemployed period:
- Set a Timeline: Establish a goal to secure a job within the first 45–60 days of your OPT period.
- Consider Part-Time or Unpaid Work: OPT permits unpaid internships and part-time roles. This experience counts towards employment and can help you avoid accruing too many unemployment days.
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Tips for a Successful OPT Job Search:
- Start Early: Begin your job search 3-6 months before your graduation to increase your chances of securing a position that fits your OPT eligibility and career goals.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals, attend career fairs, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to make valuable contacts.
- Leverage University Resources: Many universities offer career services, OPT workshops, and job fairs specifically for international students.
- Utilize LinkedIn: LinkedIn is an invaluable resource for finding jobs, networking, and gaining insights into industry trends.
Tips to Secure a Job on OPT:
- Be Open to Short-Term Roles: As a beginner, you should go for entry level jobs for OPT students. Contract jobs and internships often lead to full-time offers and provide valuable experience.
- Track Your OPT Employment: Maintain detailed records of all employment to ensure compliance with OPT regulations.
- Focus on Quality: Indian students should aim to apply for jobs that match their skills and goals. Avoid looking for a wide range of jobs, which can be overwhelming.
Know More: Part Time Jobs in USA
How to Overcome Challenges for OPT?
- Limited Responses: If you’re not receiving responses, re-evaluate your resume and application strategy. Consider using resume marketing services.
- Visa Sponsorship Concerns: Target companies known for OPT sponsorship jobs, that sponsor H-1B visas. Many tech, finance, and engineering firms frequently hire OPT candidates with sponsorship potential.
- Networking Challenges: Start by joining student and professional groups related to your field. Attend events and career fairs hosted by universities or community organizations.
Finding an OPT job on time comes with the opportunity to enhance your career goals and OPT requirements. The above mentioned structured planning, consistent efforts, and leveraging resources can help you find a suitable OPT job in USA.
FAQs
Ques. How soon can I start working on OPT after graduation?
Ans. You can start working on OPT once your OPT application is approved, and you have received your OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. This is usually after graduation, but you can also apply for pre-completion OPT while studying.
Ques. What should I include in my resume to increase chances of job during OPT?
Ans. To increase your chances of OPT visa jobs, your resume will play a vital role. Your resume should focus on your education, internships, skills, and relevant work experience. Keep it concise, with a clear structure and relevant keywords to showcase your expertise. You may also consider professional services like United OPT Resume Writers if you need assistance with optimizing your resume.
Ques. What are some best job portals for OPT students in the USA?
Ans. Some recommended job portals for OPT students include MyVisaJobs, United OPT, OPT Nation, LinkedIn, and Indeed. These platforms have OPT-friendly listings and are useful for targeting jobs in industries like IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance.
Ques. How can I avoid too many unemployment days on OPT?
Ans. On post-completion OPT, students are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment. To avoid reaching this limit, try to set a timeline for securing a job, and consider part-time or unpaid work, such as internships, that aligns with your field of study. Part-time or unpaid work also counts as employment under OPT rules.
Ques. How to find OPT jobs for international students that offers H-1B sponsorship?
Ans. For OPT jobs offering H-1B sponsorship, you should target companies known for H-1B sponsorships. Companies in fields like tech, finance, and engineering are more likely to provide H-1B sponsorship in USA. Make use of resources like MyVisaJobs, which provide details on H-1B sponsoring companies. Tailoring your job search strategy to these companies can improve your chances of securing a long-term position.
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