Find out about the employment options available to international students at Harvard, including on-campus work, internships, and post-graduation opportunities, with advice from the HIO. We also talked about Harvard international student work options and Employment guidance HIO Harvard. As well as Jobs for international students Harvard and Post-graduation work Harvard international students.
Harvard International Student Work Options
One of the biggest things about studying in the US as an international student is understanding the different work options available to you during your time at Harvard. While it can seem overwhelming, there are several options for international students to explore, on and off campus.
On-Campus
For international students at Harvard, on-campus work is the easiest and most convenient option. Harvard University has a ton of on-campus jobs. From working in the libraries and dining halls to research and administrative positions in different departments. International students on F-1 visas can work on campus up to 20 hours a week during the academic term. They can work full time during official school breaks (summer and winter vacation).
On-Campus Employment Advantages
- No work permit required: F-1 visa holders donât need a work permit for on-campus jobs, so you can start working as soon as you get a job.
- Convenience: On-campus jobs are usually flexible and employers understand that students need to balance academics with work.
- Networking: On-campus work gives you the opportunity to meet faculty, staff and fellow students and build connections that can be helpful in the future.
You can check out some on-campus job opportunities on the Harvard Student Employment Office website.
Off-Campus Employment
On-campus employment is relatively easy, off-campus work for international students is more limited due to visa regulations. However, there are specific circumstances under which international students can work off-campus:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT allows F-1 visa students to work off-campus if the job is directly related to their field of study and is part of their academic program. CPT is often used for internships or practical experiences that are part of a studentâs degree requirements. This can be part-time (20 hours a week or less) during the academic year or full time during summer breaks. But CPT must be approved by the school and the HIO before you can start working.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is a more flexible work option that allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months during or after completing their degree. If a studentâs degree is in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field, they can apply for a 24-month extension. Thus, they can have a total of 36 months of work authorization in the US.
OPT is especially popular among students looking for professional experience in the US after they graduate. The HIO has detailed information on how to apply for OPT. This also includes what documents are required and how to maintain legal status while working.
Volunteering and Unpaid Internships
Another option for students who may not qualify for off-campus paid employment is to explore volunteering or unpaid internships. While unpaid positions do not require work authorization, it is important to ensure that the position genuinely qualifies as unpaid work. It is not just a way to circumvent employment regulations. The HIO can help students understand the nuances of these positions and ensure compliance with U.S. labor laws.
See also: Apply for Harvard Academy Scholarship Admission for International Student, USA
Employment Guidance from HIO Harvard
The Harvard International Office (HIO) is an invaluable resource for international students looking to understand their work options and visa regulations. The HIOâs main role is to provide up-to-date information on employment rules and regulations that apply to international students and ensure they remain in compliance with their visa requirements.
Visa Requirements and Work Authorization
The type of work authorization that international students need depends on their visa category. The two most common visas for Harvard students are the F-1 and J-1 visas. However, both are with its own set of work restrictions.
F-1 Visa Employment Guidelines
For students on an F-1 visa, employment is generally limited to on-campus work during the academic term. Off-campus work is allowed only under special circumstances, such as CPT or OPT, both of which require approval.
- On-campus work: Does not require special authorization.
- Off-campus work: Requires specific work authorization such as CPT, OPT, or Severe Economic Hardship employment.
J-1 Visa Employment Guidelines
J-1 students have slightly different rules when it comes to work authorization. They must obtain permission from their program sponsor (which is often the HIO) before they can engage in any type of employment, including on-campus jobs.
- On-campus employment: Requires approval from the HIO.
- Off-campus employment: Can be pursued through Academic Training (AT). It allows students to work in their field of study either during their academic program or after completion.
How the HIO Provides Employment Guidance
The HIO is dedicated to providing international students with the guidance they need to make informed decisions about their work opportunities. Some of the services offered include:
- Workshops and webinars: The HIO regularly hosts informational sessions about work authorization, visa compliance, and post-graduation work options such as OPT and Academic Training.
- Individual advising sessions: Students can schedule one-on-one meetings with HIO advisors to discuss their specific situation. As well as ask questions, and get help with applying for work authorization.
- Online resources: The HIO website offers a range of resources. Including detailed guides on how to apply for CPT, OPT, or Academic Training, as well as FAQs on various visa-related topics. Check out their employment section for more information.
Jobs for International Students at Harvard
When it comes to finding jobs for international students at Harvard, there are on and off campus options. But students need to be aware of visa regulations and get work authorization before starting any job.
Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships
One of the most common jobs for international students at Harvard is being a research assistant or teaching assistant. These are usually within your own department and involve assisting professors with research projects, grading or leading study sessions for undergrads.
- Research assistantships: These allow students to work closely with faculty and get hands on experience in their field of study.
- Teaching assistantships (TA): TAs assist professors in teaching classes, holding office hours and grading papers or exams.
Both types of assistantships are great opportunities for students to build relationships with professors. And also get work experience and earn money to support their studies.
See also: How to Apply for International Students Admission to the University of Liverpool
Campus Jobs in Libraries, Cafes and Administrative Offices
In addition to research and teaching positions, there are many campus jobs available to international students, including jobs in Harvardâs libraries, cafes and administrative offices. These are perfect for students looking for flexible, part time work that can fit around their academic schedule.
The Harvard Student Employment Office is a good place to start your job search as it lists all on-campus jobs and has information on working at Harvard. See Harvard International Student Employment Options.
Internships and Co-op Programs
For students looking to get professional experience in their field of study, internships and co-op programs are a great option. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to do internships that are directly related to their academic program. These internships give students practical, real world experience while staying within the bounds of their visa.
Many students also do summer internships to get experience and network with professionals in their field. Harvardâs Office of Career Services has resources to help students find internships, both in the US and abroad.
Post Graduation Work for Harvard International Students
After graduation, many international students at Harvard want to get work experience in the US before going back to their home countries. Luckily, there are several post graduation work options for international students, the most popular of which are OPT and Academic Training.
See also: Apply for University of Manchester Admission for International Students
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is the main work option for F-1 visa holders after graduation. OPT allows students to work for 12 months in a job related to their field of study. For students with STEM degrees, there is an option to extend their OPT by 24 months, making the total work authorization period 36 months.
How to Apply
Applying for OPT requires some planning and timing. Students can apply for OPT up to 90 days before graduation and the process takes a few months so start early. The HIO has instructions and support for students applying for OPT including information on how to submit the required documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Check out the HIOâs OPT page for more info.
OPT STEM Extension
For students in STEM fields, the STEM OPT Extension gives you an additional 24 months of work authorization for a total of 36 months. This extension is for students with degrees in qualifying STEM fields and you must be employed by an employer that is enrolled in the E-Verify system.
The HIO offers workshops and individual advising sessions to help you through the OPT STEM Extension process. Check out the HIO website for more info.
Academic Training (AT) for J-1 Visa Holders
For students on J-1 visas, Academic Training (AT) is similar to OPT. Like OPT, AT must be directly related to the studentâs field of study but the rules and regulations are slightly different.
Duration of Academic Training
The duration of Academic Training varies by degree level. Undergraduate and non-STEM graduate students are eligible for up to 18 months of Academic Training, STEM students up to 36 months.
How to Apply for AT
Students must apply for Academic Training through the HIO and get authorized before starting work. Apply for AT before your program end date as post-completion AT must be approved before the program end date.
Check out the HIOâs Academic Training page for more info.
See also: Student Visa Updates for 2025: How Recent Changes Impact International Students
Finding Jobs After Graduation
It can be tough to find a job after graduation as an international student, especially in a competitive market. But there are resources to help. Harvardâs Office of Career Services offers career counseling, job search resources and networking opportunities to help international students find work. See Harvard International Student Employment Options.
The HIO also hosts job search workshops for international students. These workshops cover:
- Writing a great resume and cover letter.
- Navigating the US job market as an international student.
- Networking to find a job in your field.
See also: Apply for Jobs in the USA
Conclusion
Harvard international student employment can seem overwhelming. However, with the HIO, students can make informed decisions about their work options. They can also stay compliant with their visa requirements. Whether youâre looking for an on-campus job, considering internships through CPT or planning for post-graduation work through OPT or Academic Training, the HIO has the resources and support you need. Harvard International Student Employment Options.
By taking advantage of the opportunities at Harvard, international students can gain work experience, build professional connections and enhance their academic journey. Go to the HIO website and schedule a consultation today.
See also: https://www.campusreel.org/student-jobs/harvard-university