After completing my master's, can I get a job in the country where I study in USA?
Yes, after completing your master's in the USA, you can work there through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
OPT lets F-1 visa holders work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. If your degree is in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field, you may qualify for a 24-month extension, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization.
- You must complete at least one full academic year at a U.S. institution.
- Apply for OPT up to 90 days before finishing your program, and no later than 60 days after graduation.
- Your job must be directly related to your major.
Visa rules are subject to change. For guidance on your next steps, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
More expert answers
Yes, completing a Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences in the USA can improve your job prospects. Graduates often find roles such as pharmaceutical scientist, clinical research associate, regulatory affairs specialist, or quality control analyst, with typical salaries ranging from $70,000 - $120,000/year (subject to change).
International students are usually eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows up to three years of work experience in the US after graduation.
Your chances will also depend on your academic record, internships, networking, and job market conditions at graduation.
Will you actually get a job after your US master's?
Talk to a counsellor about real outcomes, salaries and which courses employers hire from.
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