Barriers You May Encounter

Many Gannon University international students want to work in the United States after graduating with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or doctoral degree. According to U.S. immigration law, international students in F-1 status are eligible to work for a period of time after they graduate as part of their "practical training," provided they remain eligible. It is important to discuss benefits and regulations regarding employment with a staff member of the Gannon International Student Office.

International students may encounter barriers to continuing employment following the completion of OPT authorization for the following reasons:

Complex hiring process:

Employers must be willing to sponsor international students to obtain H1-B status, allowing them to work in the U.S. for one to six years.

Hiring an international student is more complicated and less familiar to many employers than hiring an American. The process for the employer involves:

  • 1. Documenting that the job on offer is a “specialty occupation” and that the prospective employee is uniquely qualified for the position.
  • 2. Obtaining certification from the Department of Labor
  • 3. Petitioning the USCIS, on behalf of the prospective employee, for HI-B status.
  • 4. Absorbing the H1-B petition, fees, and related expenses.

Employer misperceptions:

Some employers may be reluctant to hire an international student because they fear the student will want to return to his/her home country after working for a short period of time, or employers are reluctant to invest time, money, and training on a new hire only to have the student leave soon after training is complete.

Communication gap:

Strong verbal and written communication skills are often a job requirement, and employers may be concerned with international students' ability to communicate effectively with clients and/or company personnel.

American only attitude:

  • During difficult economic times, some American employers believe that there will be fewer jobs for American workers if jobs are given to international students.
  • Some employers are suspicious of international students whom they view as potential “threats to security.”
  • Many employers will specify in the job listing: Must be a U.S. citizen. This may be due to governmental regulations or a company’s decision to forego the investment of time and resources to sponsor international applicants.

Next