An F-1 student recently faced a tough situation at work. After an interview, they were rejected because the company said it doesn’t sponsor CPT or OPT candidates. That response surprised many since CPT authorisation comes from the student’s university, not the employer.
Misunderstanding or market shift?
This isn’t just confusion about visa rules. It reflects a major shift in how companies view international students. Employers now see F-1 candidates as potential financial risks due to future H-1B sponsorship costs.
Why companies hesitate
Experts explain that many employers reject F-1 students to avoid future visa expenses. They believe hiring a CPT or OPT student leads to an H-1B sponsorship request later, which adds cost and paperwork.
The legal burden debate
Some say hiring CPT candidates puts extra legal responsibility on companies. Employers must track reports and learning plans. But other experts disagree, arguing that the process involves minimal paperwork and is far from a major burden.
Cheap labour and growing crisis
Another angle is cost. Many international students accept lower pay compared to local hires, making them some of the most affordable onshore workers in the US. Yet, despite that, the employment crisis deepens as firms continue to avoid foreign students over future visa concerns.
