Internship interview

[geodave]

Hi All,

First off I want to thank everyone for creating such a supportive community that I can interact with.

Here's some info about me: I'm a PhD student in science and I'm interested in applying for an internship with a company over the summer to gain some practical experience. I definitely plan to continue my PhD once the summer (and internship) is over. My preferred legal option is to apply for a pre-OPT for the duration of the internship.

Here's my question: How should I reply to the interviewer's particular question about whether or not I am authorized to work in the US?

From my understanding, technically as an F1 student I'm not authorized to work off campus unless I have OPT or CPT status, and that once I acquire the EAD I should be authorized to work anywhere (for the duration of the OPT). So, should I answer "Yes, I am authorized to work in the US" to the interviewer's question, or should I answer "Yes, once I receive my EAD I will be authorized to work in the US," or should I say "No" and not bother with the whole thing? Please note that I'm trying my best to maintain my F1 status and do things the right way.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated.

geodave

 

[BigJoe5]

8 CFR § 274a.12 Classes of aliens authorized to accept employment.

(b) Aliens authorized for employment with a specific employer incident to status.

(6) A nonimmigrant (F–1) student who is in valid nonimmigrant student status and pursuant to 8 CFR 214.2(f) is seeking:

(iii) Curricular practical training (internships, cooperative training programs, or work-study programs which are part of an established curriculum) after having been enrolled full-time in a Service approved institution for one full academic year. Curricular practical training (part-time or full-time) is authorized by the Designated School Official on the student's Form I–20. No Service endorsement is necessary.

If you have completed or will have completed one academic year, see your DSO before any interview.

 

[geodave]

Thank you for your reply, BigJoe5. You did not, however, answer my question about what my response should be at the interview. I'm already aware of the OPT/CPT stipulations for F1 students. Simply copying and pasting verbose legal jargon isn't very helpful. Thank you for your time anyway.

To anyone that has the same question as me, I did some web searches and it looks like the best answer is to simply be truthful and say something along the lines of "I have work authorization through Optional Practical Training (OPT)".

Good luck to you all!