This content was adapted from UnitedOPT. You can view the original post here.
FAQ’s
1. HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER A COMPANY IS OPT FRIENDLY?
You can check the company’s hiring history on platforms like MyVisaJobs, Interstride, H1BGrader, and LinkedIn. Find out more insight from the networking referrals and alumni networks.
2. HOW CAN I IDENTIFY EMPLOYERS THAT RECRUIT CANDIDATES ON OPT?
Finding employers that recruit OPT candidates can be done through job portals like UNITED OPT, Interstride, LinkedIn, Indeed, MyVisaJobs, and networking events provided by your career center at Villanova. Use Handshake to access and browse these events.
3. WHICH INDUSTRY HAS THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR OPT CANDIDATES?
Many industries, especially those in STEM fields, have a high demand of OPT candidates. Both large and smaller companies hire OPT candidates. Example of industries include tech, healthcare, finance and engineering, etc.
4. IS H1B SPONSORSHIP A GUARANTEE AFTER COMPLETING OPT AT A COMPANY?
Not all companies provide H1B sponsorship after OPT therefore it is important to check the company’s history of sponsoring H1B. You can use sites like USCIS H-1B databases and MyVisaJobs for help in researching there companies.
5. ARE REMOTE JOBS PERMITTED ON OPT JOBS?
Yes, remote jobs are allowed for students on OPT as long as it is directly related to your field of study and meet all the work regulations for international students on OPT.
6. DO STARTUPS RECRUIT OPT STUDENTS?
Yes, small companies do hire OPT students as much as the bigger companies. Most of the companies do provide great hands-on experience but always keep in mind that they should follow the correct OPT regulations.
7. WHAT ARE THE RED FLAGS I SHOULD BE AWARE OF WHEN LOOKING FOR OPT EMPLOYMENT?
Always be aware of how the employers recruit or hire you. Beware of those employers who request for money, delay providing paperwork, do not give an offer letter, and lack proper business details on their website, LinkedIn, or do not provide a lot of details during your interview.
For more information on how to evaluate a company and tips on the job search, schedule an appointment with the Career Center.
