USA Work Permit Options for Nigerian Students
  12. August 2025     Admin  

USA Work Permit Options for Nigerian Students


1. On-Campus Employment

As an international student on an F-1 visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during school sessions and full-time during breaks without a special work permit.

2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

  • Allows F-1 students to work off-campus in a role related to their field of study.
  • Must be authorized by the Designated School Official (DSO) before starting.
  • Can be part-time (20 hours or less) during school or full-time during breaks.

3. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

  • Up to 12 months of work authorization after completing your degree.
  • Can be used during (pre-completion OPT) or after (post-completion OPT) your studies.
  • STEM graduates can apply for a 24-month OPT extension.

4. STEM OPT Extension

If you graduate with a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), you can apply for a 24-month extension after your initial 12 months of OPT, giving you a total of 36 months to work in the U.S.

5. H-1B Work Visa

After OPT, Nigerian graduates can apply for an H-1B visa if they secure employment with a U.S. employer willing to sponsor them. This visa allows up to 6 years of professional work in the U.S.

6. J-1 Academic Training

For students on a J-1 exchange visa, Academic Training permits work in their field of study for up to 18 months (or 36 months for postdoctoral training).
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