Florida Institute of Technology
High Tech with a Human Touch
Employer Resources International Students
Florida Tech is a diverse, global campus with over 800 international students representing over 100 different countries. Many of these students are interested in seeking either internships or full-time employment upon graduation but employers are often reluctant to hire them because of the perceived legal and immigration difficulties. The following information is provided to help employers with this process and to help determine if an international student can meet your hiring needs.
Student Employment
International students in F-1 visas are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours a week while class is in session. They are not, however, able to work off campus in part-time or full-time positions unless they are participating in an internship or a co-op and receiving academic credit for their work experience or they receive work authorization due to severe economic hardship. This includes volunteering for a position that is normally a paid position. Employers should be very careful to ensure that they do not hire an international student without proper work authorization. Questions about a particular student can be directed to Career Management Services at 321-674-8012 or the Office of International Student and Scholar Services at 321-674-8053.
Co-ops/Internships
International students on F-1 visas may be eligible to work full-time or part-time off campus in positions that are directly related to their major and for which they will receive academic credit. Students must be approved by the University to participate in a co-op or internship and international students will receive work authorization through Curricular Practical Training from the Office of International Students and Scholars. Employers will typically need to provide a written job offer and may need to fill out other forms depending on the nature of the co-op or internship. The student must not begin working before they receive proper work authorization and can only work during the time that is specified on their authorization form and within the time frame of the academic semester. Employers who wish to hire an international student for an internship or co-op need to plan well in advance of the hiring date to ensure all paperwork is completed in time for the student to begin working at the appropriate time.
For more information about participating in the Co-op/Internship program please contact Career Management Services at 321-674-8102. Questions about work authorization status should be directed to the Office of International Students and Scholars at 321-674-8053.
Full-time Employment after Graduation
International students on F-1 visas are eligible for Post Completion Practical Training allowing them to work full-time in a position directly related to their field of study for a maximum period of one year. After the student completes paperwork, they are issued an Employment Authorization Card by the U. S. Citizenship and Imigration Services (USCIS) allowing them to begin employment. Employers are not required to fill out any additional paperwork or pay any fees.
Post Completion Practical Training is an excellent way for employers to "try out" a new employee because there is no requirement for the employer to continue employment after the 12 month period is up. If the employer wishes to hire the student for a longer period of time, they can then sponsor the student for an H1B visa for up to six years or for a green card.
Once a student has completed their year of practical training, they are no longer under the jurisdiction of Florida Tech. Employers who need assistance or information on how to sponsor an international worker for an H1B visa should contact an immigration attorney or go to USCIS Portal for information from the USCIS.
Hiring an international student can seem daunting but is actually fairly simple for temporary positions and internships once the student has secured proper work authorization. Most international students at Florida Tech have excellent English communication skills and their technical skills are often outstanding. And, they speak several different languages and bring an understanding of different cultures that is important in today's global economy.