Are You an International Student Seeking Employment?
Good news! International Students are eligible to work while studying in the United States. In order to obtain a social security number for work, an international student:
- Must complete at least one semester before applying for a job position
- Be registered in 12 units per semester
- Work part-time- up to 20 hours per week
- Work at the main campus where they are studying
- Can not apply for Federal Work Study
- Must find a department willing to hire students with an F1 Visa
How to Begin Your Job Search
Assessments: Although this step is not mandatory, we encourage all students to complete one of the Career Assessments offered on campus - the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory (SII). Interpretation of an assessment will help guide you on what type of job position will suit you best.
Meet: Schedule an appointment with the Career Center to receive guidance and discuss internship options and procedures.
Network: Let people know you are looking for a job position.
Research: Explore on-campus job opportunities with Handshake (our online job board). Do research on the department that interests you the most.
Learn: Find out as much as you can about the department you would like to apply to by contacting other students, alumni, or employees who have worked there.
Prepare: Create or update your resume and cover letter, obtain feedback from Career Center and schedule a mock interview.
Apply: Complete the job application then submit your resume and cover letter to the contact person for the position.
Follow-Thru: If necessary, follow up at an appropriate time via email or telephone call.
Interested in an Internship?
The process for finding an internship is similar to looking for a job:
Assessments: Although this step is not mandatory, we encourage all students to complete one of the Career Assessments offered on campus - the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory (SII). Interpretation of an assessment will help guide you on what type of job position will suit you best.
Meet: Schedule an appointment with the Career Center to receive guidance and discuss internship options and procedures.
Network: Let people know you are looking for an internship in your field.
Research: Explore internship opportunities with Handshake (our online job board) and on the internet. Do research on the internship site that interests you.
Learn: Find out as much as you can about the organization you would like to apply to by contacting other students, alumni, or employees who have worked there.
Prepare: Create or update your resume and cover letter, obtain feedback from Career Center and schedule a mock interview.
Apply: Complete the internship application then submit your resume and cover letter to the contact person for the position.
Follow-Thru: If necessary, follow up at an appropriate time via email or telephone call.
After You've Been Hired
An International Student must obtain the following before they can start working:
- An authorization letter to work. This may be obtained from the International Student Advisor.
- A Social Security number (this process may take several weeks).
For further assistance or questions regarding requirements and restrictions for International Students seeking employment, contact the International Student Advisor - VCinternational@vcccd.edu