Hiring International Patriots: A Guide for Employers

Dallas Baptist University (DBU) values the contributions our international students bring to the global marketplace. We understand that navigating federal immigration laws can seem complex, but hiring an international student is often simpler and more cost-effective than many employers realize.

This guide provides clarity on the regulations and processes for hiring DBU international students.

Employment Options for F-1 Students

Most DBU international students hold an F-1 Student Visa. They can be legally permitted to work in the U.S. through two primary programs:

1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is for current students to gain experience in their major field of study before graduation.

  • Approval: Authorized by DBU’s International Immigration Office. It does not require approval from USCIS (the federal government), making it a fast process. The document that proves the student is approved for employment (EAD) is their I-20. The CPT approval is listed on page 2 of the I-20.
  • The "Cooperative Agreement": Per federal law, the school and employer must have a cooperative agreement. At DBU, this is satisfied when the employer provides an Employment Offer Letter which contains an agreement to cooperate with DBU in achieving the curricular purposes of the employment/training.
  • Employer Role: Provide a job offer letter stating the position title, start/end dates, site address, and a brief description of duties.
  • Start and End Date: CPT at DBU is approved one semester at a time. So, an employer should pay attention to the CPT Start and End dates listed on page 2 of the student’s I-20.

2. Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT allows graduates to work in the U.S. for 12 months after completing their degree.

  • Approval: The student applies to USCIS for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  • Employer Role: None. The student and the DBU Immigration Office handle all the paperwork and fees. The employer simply verifies the EAD card upon hiring for Form I-9 purposes.

3. STEM OPT Extension

Graduates with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) can apply for a 24-month extension, allowing for a total of 36 months of work authorization.

  • Requirements: The employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
  • Training Plan: The employer and student must complete Form I-983, outlining the training objectives of the role.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to hire international students since they don’t have a green card?
No, it is 100% legal as long as they have an  Employment Authorization Document (EAD). F-1 visa holders do not get green cards. Their EAD looks different, but is still completely legal. Further, there is no direct cost to the employer for CPT or the initial 12-month OPT. In fact, most F-1 students are exempt from Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes for their first five years in the U.S., potentially saving your company money.
How much do I have to pay the student?
There is no "international student" wage scale. You should pay the student the same fair market rate or internship stipend you would offer any other student in a similar role. Note that F-1 students are eligible for both paid and unpaid internships under CPT, provided the role meets Department of Labor guidelines.
Are employers obligated to provide benefits?
CPT students are subject to the same company rules and eligibility criteria for benefits as any other employee. Their eligibility depends entirely on their specific employment status (such as full-time or part-time) and established company policy.
Why is this employment tied to a class?
Federal regulations require that Curricular Practical Training (CPT) be an "integral part of an established curriculum." By enrolling in a particular class, the student’s work at your organization becomes a supervised extension of their education. This academic tie-in provides the legal basis for their work authorization.
What are the hour limitations?
To ensure students remain successful in their full-time degree programs, Undergraduate students are limited to 20 hours of employment per week during the Fall and Spring semesters. Graduate level students are not limited.
Do I have to grade or evaluate the student?
No. The course instructor assigns the final grade.
What does the work authorization look like?
  • For CPT: You will see the authorization printed on page 2 of the student’s Form I-20.
  • For OPT/STEM OPT: The student will present a plastic Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card with their photo and valid dates.
Can we keep them long-term?
Yes. If you wish to retain a student after their OPT expires, the most common route is the H-1B visa for specialty occupations. DBU graduates are highly skilled, and the transition from OPT to H-1B is a standard professional pathway.

Additional Resources