Work Authorization Options for International Students in the U.S.

Whether you’re heading to the United States or Canada, getting a job as an international student is more than just about income. Work experience helps you build real-world skills, grow your professional network and improve long-term career prospects. But before you can begin, you’ll need the proper work authorization for international students based on where you’re studying.

This article explains the types of internships and employment available in both countries, along with the permits and approvals required to work legally while on a U.S. student visa or Canadian study permit.

For students from Nepal, it’s especially important to understand that employment abroad requires proactive planning. Unlike Nepal, where internship placements may be arranged by your school, in the U.S. and Canada you’re responsible for finding your own opportunities and securing the correct work permits for international students before starting.

Types of jobs and internships for Nepali international students

There are several types of jobs and internships available to international students in the U.S. and Canada. Each has different student visa work restrictions that affect when, where and how you can work.

In the U.S. (F-1 visa holders)

On-campus jobs

With an F-1 visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full time during official breaks. Typical roles include library assistants, administrative aides, dining hall staff and student ambassadors.

Off-campus jobs

You can only work off campus if authorized under optional practical training (OPT) or curricular practical training (CPT). The job must relate to your field of study and follow strict rules.

Internships

CPT for international students lets you intern in roles tied to your academic program while you’re enrolled. After graduation, you can use OPT to pursue jobs or internships in your field.

Post-graduation employment

OPT allows 12 months of work after graduation, or 36 months for eligible STEM OPT students.

In Canada (study permit holders)

On-campus jobs

If you have a valid study permit, you can work on campus without a separate work permit in jobs like research assistant, peer mentor or IT support staff.

Off-campus jobs

You can work off campus up to 24 hours per week during the semester and full time during scheduled breaks. Jobs often include retail, customer service, hospitality or administrative work.

Internships

Some academic programs require internships or work placements. You’ll need a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.

Co-op programs

These are structured programs that combine classroom learning with full-time work experience. They’re typically paid and are part of your degree.

Post-graduation employment

The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) lets you work for up to three years depending on the length of your study program.

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CPT and OPT work authorization in the U.S.

If you plan to work in the U.S. as a Nepali student on an F-1 visa, understanding CPT and OPT is essential. You’ll need to follow all application rules and seek help from your DSO (designated school official) to ensure any jobs for international students in the USA stay compliant.

CPT authorization

Curricular practical training (CPT) lets you work while studying if the job is required or integral to your academic program.

How to apply: You must hold a valid F-1 visa and be enrolled in a degree program. After securing a job offer related to your studies, work with your DSO to update your I-20 and receive written approval. You cannot start working until you receive this.

CPT gives you hands-on experience and helps you build a foundation for your OPT or future employment.

OPT authorization

Optional practical training (OPT) allows you to work during or after your degree even if the job isn’t tied to a specific course.

How to apply: Apply up to 90 days before graduation or within 60 days after. You’ll need your school’s recommendation and approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You’ll receive an EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card, which is your official work permit.

Standard OPT lasts 12 months, but STEM OPT students can apply for a 24-month extension.

Nepali students unfamiliar with the OPT system should plan early, as the process can take several months and depends heavily on proper documentation.

Side-by-side comparison: U.S. vs Canada

Feature	U.S. (F-1 visa)	Canada (Study permit)
On-campus work	Max 20 hrs/week, no permit needed	Allowed with valid study permit
Off-campus work (during studies)	Only with CPT or OPT	Allowed up to 24 hrs/week
Internships	CPT required, job must be approved	Co-op work permit may be required
Postgraduation work	OPT: 12 months (STEM: 36 months)	PGWP: Up to 36 months
Employer flexibility	Only in major-related fields	Any employer, any field

PGWP work authorization in Canada

If you choose to study in Canada, the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) allows you to stay and work for up to three years, depending on your program length.

You must complete a full-time program at a designated learning institution (DLI) lasting at least eight months.
You must apply within 180 days of getting your transcript and degree confirmation.
The PGWP is an open permit. You can work for any employer across Canada.

How to apply

Apply online through the IRCC website. You’ll need:

A letter of completion and official transcript from your school
A valid passport
Proof that you held a valid study permit when you applied

If you apply before your permit expires, you may be able to work while you wait for the PGWP to process.

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FAQs

Can Nepali students work part time while studying in the U.S.?

Yes. On an F-1 visa, you can work part time on campus (up to 20 hours per week) during the school term. No extra permit is needed, but the job must be directly tied to your university.

What happens if I work without authorization?

Working without proper authorization, on or off campus, can lead to serious consequences, including termination of your F-1 status. Always speak to your DSO before starting any work.

How is CPT different from OPT?

CPT is used while you’re still enrolled in your degree program. The job must be part of your curriculum. OPT is used during or after graduation and is more flexible in terms of timing and employer.

Can unpaid internships be done without CPT or OPT?

No. Even unpaid internships often require CPT or OPT authorization if the role would normally be paid or involves professional duties. Check with your international student office to stay compliant.

Are Nepali students eligible for STEM OPT?

Yes. If your degree falls under the list of STEM OPT-eligible programs, you can apply for a 24-month extension of your postcompletion OPT. This allows you to work in the U.S. for up to three years total.

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Work authorization for international students: A guide for Nepali students