Information for International Students Entering the Job Market

Understanding Your Visa Options: H-1B vs. OPT/F-1/CPT

OPT (Optional Practical Training):

• Secure a visa with a 99% acceptance rate, eliminating uncertainty.
• Avoid the annual H-1B lottery system, providing a dependable visa solution.
• Lasts up to three years, with the possibility of an additional three year extension.

Career Advancement:

• Gain valuable work experience in your field while participating in mentorship programs.
• Develop leadership and project management skills, enhancing your professional profile.

Employer Confidence:

• Companies are more inclined to hire candidates with guaranteed visa status.
• Reduces employer concerns about visa-related employment interruptions.
• Significantly less expensive than pursuing a Masters or PHD in the U.S.

Candidate Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in a specialized field.
• Ability to dedicate 5+ hours per week to educational programming initiatives and workforce development.
• A benefactor (a company, organization, or individual) willing to support the Fellowship costs – Fellows cannot fund their own Fellowship.

Fellowship Commitment

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year, Fellowships can begin at any time.
• Fellows are sponsored for cap-exempt H-1Bs for up to 3 years, with a minimum 12 month commitment.
• A 3 year extension is possible.

Evaluating Your OPT Timeline

STEM Graduates:

• Maximize your 3-year STEM OPT to build experience and strengthen your H-1B application.
• Plan your transition from OPT to H-1B through The Build Fellowship to ensure continuous employment.

Non-STEM Graduates:

• Utilize your 1-year OPT effectively by seeking relevant work experience.
• Explore The Build Fellowship to secure your visa and continue your career uninterrupted.

Employer Considerations

Job Security:

• Employers may be hesitant to invest in candidates with uncertain visa statuses.
• Companies are searching for a backup option if their employees were not selected in the annual lottery.
• The Build Fellowship's cap-exempt H-1B program provides job security, making you a more attractive hire.

Long-Term Employment:

• Assured visa sponsorship through The Build Fellowship enables you to commit to long-term employment, benefiting both you and your employer.

Enhancing Your Marketability

Visa Assurance:

• Present yourself as a candidate who does not require immediate visa sponsorship by securing an H-1B visa through The Build Fellowship.
• Applications for The Build Fellowship are accepted year-round
• Increase your appeal to potential employers who prefer hiring candidates with secured visa status.

Skill Development:

• Participate in The Build Fellowship to develop leadership and project management skills.
• Gain practical experience and mentorship opportunities, enhancing your professional development.
• Build your portfolio through Build projects.

Networking Opportunities:

• Engage with a cohort of skilled peers through The Build Fellowship.
• Expand your professional network, opening doors to new career opportunities.

For more information on how The Build Fellowship can support your career in the U.S., visit The Build Fellowship.