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Part-Time Jobs on Campus (While Studying)

International students on an F-1 visa are allowed to work part-time on campus while studying. Here are the key details:

 Work Eligibility & Rules

  • Can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.

  • Can work up to 40 hours per week during official breaks (summer/winter vacations).

  • Jobs must be on-campus or affiliated with the university.


Types of On-Campus Jobs

  • Library Assistant

  • Campus Cafeteria Worker

  • Research Assistant

  • Student Ambassador

  • Teaching Assistant (for graduate students)

  • IT or Administrative Support
     

How to Find On-Campus Jobs?

  • Check your university’s career portal or student employment office.

  • Visit campus facilities like the library, cafeteria, or bookstore for openings.

  • Network with professors for research assistant positions.

​

Work After Course Completion (Post-Study Work Opportunities)

After completing your degree, you may qualify for work opportunities under OPT (Optional Practical Training) or H-1B Work Visa.

 Optional Practical Training (OPT)

  • Allows international students to work for up to 12 months after graduation.

  • STEM graduates (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) can extend OPT for 24 more months (total 36 months).

  • Work must be related to your field of study.

  • Apply for OPT through USCIS before graduation.
     

 H-1B Work Visa (Long-Term Employment)

  • For skilled professionals hired by U.S. companies.

  • Requires sponsorship from an employer.

  • Valid for up to 6 years (initial 3 years + 3-year extension).

  • Mostly used for STEM, IT, Engineering, and Business jobs.
     

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Work While Studying

  • Allows off-campus work as part of your academic curriculum.

  • Requires job offer & authorization from your university.
     

Internship & Co-Op Programs

  • Many universities offer internships to gain practical experience.

  • Paid and unpaid internships are available in different industries.

​

Some Colleges and Universities to Consider in the US

Universities

  1. Washington State University

  2. University of Houston

  3. San Francisco Bay University

  4. Fashion Institute of Technology

  5. University of California San Diego

  6. University of California, Irvine

  7. Stony Brook University

  8. University of Illinois Chicago

  9. Texas Tech University

  10. Florida state university

  11. Chicago State University

  12. Western Illinois University

  13. The City College of New York

  14. University of Missouri

  15. University of Indianapolis

Community Colleges

  1. Seattle Colleges

  2. East Los Angles College

  3. Ohlone College

  4. Highline College

  5. Tacoma community college

  6. City College of San Francisco

  7. Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)

  8. Pasadena college

  9. Skyline college

  10. Montgomery College

  11. Florida State college at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

  12. Long Beach College

  13. Houston Community College

  14. Los Angeles City College (LACC)

  15. De Anza college

  16. Foothill college

  17. Valencia College

  18. Santa Monica College

  19. Queens College

  20. Queensborough Community College

  21. Santa Monica College

  22. City College of San Francisco

Many students choose the USA for their higher education due to its world-class universities, diverse academic programs, and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. The U.S. is home to some of the most prestigious institutions globally, offering a wide variety of specialized programs across various fields.

 

Students can immerse themselves in a rich, multicultural environment, which enhances both academic learning and personal development. Furthermore, the U.S. is at the forefront of innovation and research, providing students access to cutting-edge technology and opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects.

 

Beyond academics, the U.S. offers excellent career prospects, with numerous internship opportunities and post-graduation work options through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT). With a strong support system for international students, studying in the USA provides a holistic and enriching experience that opens doors to endless opportunities.

STUDY IN UNITED STATE

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🇺🇸 USA

Top Choices of Programs for International Students in the USA

  1. Business Administration (MBA)

  2. Computer Science and Information Technology

  3. Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical)

  4. Health Sciences (Nursing, Public Health, Pharmacy)

  5. Social Sciences (Psychology, Sociology, Political Science)

  6. Biological Sciences (Genetics, Biotechnology, Environmental Science)

  7. Hospitality and Tourism Management

  8. Arts and Design (Graphic Design, Fashion, Animation, Architecture)

  9. Finance and Accounting

  10. Education (Elementary Education, Special Education, TESOL)

  11. Environmental Studies

Admission Requirements

​

  1. Application Form

  2. Application Fee

  3. Valid Passport

  4. Academic Transcripts

  5. English Proficiency Proof

  6. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)

  7. Letters of Recommendation

  8. Statement of Purpose

  9. Financial Support Proof

  10. Visa Documentation

  11. Portfolio/Audition (if applicable)

Part-Time & Post-Graduation Jobs

The USA offers various work opportunities for international students, both during and after their studies. Understanding the work regulations will help you plan your finances and career growth.

 Key Takeaways

  • On-campus jobs help students earn money and gain experience while studying.

  • ​OPT allows graduates to work in their field for up to 3 years (for STEM students).

  • H-1B visa is the most common path for long-term work in the USA.

  • Internships & CPT provide hands-on experience before graduation.

Tuition Cost

Studying in the USA is an exciting opportunity, but it’s essential to understand the costs involved. The total expenses depend on factors such as university type, location, and lifestyle choices. Below is a general guide to help you plan your budget.

Tuition Fees
Tuition costs vary based on the institution and program. Here’s an estimated breakdown:
 
Undergraduate Programs

  • Public Universities (State Colleges): $10,000 – $25,000 per year

  • Private Universities: $25,000 – $50,000 per year
     

Graduate Programs (Master’s & PhD)

  • Public Universities: $15,000 – $30,000 per year

Private Universities: $25,000 – $55,000 per year

Community Colleges

  • More affordable, with tuition ranging from $7,500 – $15,000 per year
     

Additional Costs

  • Application Fees: $50 – $150 per university

  • Student Health Insurance: $500 – $2,000 per year (varies by university)

Books & Supplies: $800 – $1,500 per year


Key Differences Between Universities & Community Colleges

Universities

Community Colleges

Factor

4 years (Bachelor's), 2 years (Master's)

2 years (Associate's)

Duration

Higher ($15,000 to $60,000 per year)

Lower ($7,500 to $ 11,000 per year)

Tuition  Fee

Competitive, requires SAT, GRE, or IELTS.

Open admission with minimal test requirements.

Admission

Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD degrees.

Associate's (can transfer to universities)

Degree Awarded

Larger, more lecture-based

Smaller, more personalized class settings.

Class Size

Living expenses

Living expenses in the USA depend on the city and lifestyle. Generally, bigger cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are more expensive
than smaller towns.
Estimated Monthly Expenses

Expense Category                                                                                       Cost (per month)
​Accommodation (shared apartment)                                                     $500 – $1,500
Food & Groceries                                                                                                   $300 – $600
Transportation                                                                                                         $50 – $150
Internet & Utilities                                                                                                  $100 – $200
Health Insurance                                                                                                    $50 – $200
Miscellaneous (entertainment, shopping)                                           $200 – $500

Annual Living Cost Estimate

  • Small towns: $10,000 – $15,000 per year

  • Mid-sized cities: $15,000 – $20,000 per year

  • Major cities: $20,000 – $30,000 per year

     

Ways to Reduce Costs

  • Scholarships & Financial Aid: Many universities offer scholarships for international students.

  • Part-time Jobs: Students on F-1 visas can work on campus up to 20 hours per week.

  • Affordable Housing: Consider shared apartments or university dorms to save on rent.

  • Public Transport: Use student discounts on buses, trains, and metro services.

     

Planning Your Budget
It’s important to plan ahead and ensure you have sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and other costs. Many universities require proof of financial stability during the visa application process.

Reasons to Study at Universities in the USA

  1. Higher Degrees: Universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, while community colleges mainly offer associate degrees.

  2. Global Recognition: University degrees are widely recognized and can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

  3. Specialized Programs: Universities offer specialized programs and research opportunities not typically found in community colleges.

  4. Campus Life: Universities provide a richer campus experience with clubs, sports, and extracurricular activities.

  5. Career Support: Universities have strong career services and networking opportunities to help with internships and job placements.

  6. Higher Earning Potential: Graduates from universities tend to earn more than those with associate degrees.

  7. Pathway to Advanced Degrees: Universities offer clear pathways to master's and doctoral programs.



Reasons to Study at Community Colleges in the USA
 

  1. Affordable Tuition  - Community colleges generally have much lower tuition fees compared to universities, making them an affordable option for many students.

  2. Flexible Programs - Community colleges offer flexible programs, including part-time and evening classes, allowing students to balance work and study.

  3. Pathway to Universities - Many community colleges have transfer agreements with top universities, allowing students to complete their first two years and then transfer to a four-year institution.

  4. Smaller Class Sizes - Community colleges often have smaller class sizes, offering more personalized attention and direct access to instructors.

  5. Career-Focused Training - Many community colleges offer programs that focus on specific careers, such as healthcare, technology, and business, preparing students for the job market quickly.

  6. Diverse Student Population - Community colleges attract students from various backgrounds and age groups, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

  7. Support for International Students - Many community colleges offer resources and support for international students, including language assistance and cultural integration programs.

  8. Opportunity to Explore Interests - Community colleges allow students to explore different subjects before committing to a specific major, giving them time to decide on their career path.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Studying in the USA can be expensive, but many scholarships and financial aid options are available to help international students reduce costs.

Types of Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded for academic excellence and leadership (e.g., Harvard, Stanford, Yale).
Need-Based Scholarships – Offered by universities to students with financial need (e.g., Columbia, University of Chicago).
Government-Funded Scholarships – Fully funded programs like Fulbright and Humphrey Fellowship.
University-Specific Scholarships – Exclusive scholarships from universities (e.g., NYU, Clark University).
Private & NGO Scholarships – Offered by organizations like AAUW and Rotary Foundation.

 How to Apply

  1. Research scholarships 12-18 months in advance.

  2. Check eligibility and required documents (transcripts, essays, recommendations).

  3. Submit applications before deadlines for better chances.
     

Other Financial Aid Options
​Part-Time Work: F-1 visa students can work on-campus (20 hrs/week) and apply for OPT/CPT after a year.
Assistantships & Fellowships: Graduate students can get tuition waivers and stipends through teaching or research roles.

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