An international student is facing a painful choice between a dream internship and a fully funded PhD offer. Their story, shared on Reddit, highlights how the U.S. immigration system forces students to make career-altering decisions where one path often ends another.
A clash between opportunity and rules
After finishing a master’s in Applied Math in 2025, the F-1 student received a funded PhD offer for Spring 2026. Before joining, they also landed a prestigious big-tech internship a chance that could fast-track their career.
Immigration rules block both options
The problem lies in U.S. visa regulations. To qualify for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), the student must complete a full academic year before next summer something impossible with a January PhD start. Optional Practical Training (OPT) isn’t an option either, as transferring their SEVIS record from the master’s to the PhD program would immediately cancel it.
A choice with no easy answer
Now the student must choose: pursue a guaranteed PhD with funding or take a once-in-a-lifetime internship that could redefine their career. Reddit users largely suggested going for the internship, arguing that industry experience outweighs a PhD in today’s market.
Reflecting a wider struggle
This situation reflects the harsh reality international students face in the U.S. Even after years of hard work, visa restrictions often limit opportunities. And while internships promise valuable experience, they don’t guarantee long-term employment leaving many students stuck in uncertainty once again.
