Career Support for International Students
Career and Professional Development supports international undergraduate and graduate students throughout their academic and career journeys. We provide personalized coaching, tailored programs, and curated resources designed to help students explore career paths, build professional skills, and navigate the global workforce with confidence.
Employment Essentials for International Students
All employment must be authorized by the Office for International Students and Scholars
International students are immediately eligible for on-campus work with non-work study (NWS) funding
International students must maintain F-1 status for one academic year to be eligible for off-campus work authorization
Employment cannot exceed 20 hours per week while LMU is in session
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Paid internship in F-1 student’s field of study
Students engaged in CPT MUST be enrolled in an academic internship course
CPT is employer-specific and MUST be authorized on a student’s I-20 BEFORE they begin work
CPT does not affect Optional Practical Training (OPT) unless fulltime for 12 months
ALL F-1 students are eligible for OPT. Must be authorized by Department of Homeland Security (usually takes 90+ days).
Once approved, a student must be employed within 90 days of the OPT start date
Advising Specialists’ Office Hours
Advising Specialists are professionals with industry experience who offer individual drop-in hours in-person as well as virtually via the Career Services’ Zoom lobby. No appointment needed for specialized support and open to both students and alumni.
Have questions? Contact careers@lmu.edu or 310.338.2871
| Population | Specialist | Days and Times |
| International Students | Michael Matsheza | Wednesday 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| International Students | Sebastian Heredia | Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. |
Additional Resources & Recommendations
Create or update your profile on LinkedIn; use our complimentary professional headshot booth
Connect with LMU alumni on LinkedIn and reach out to schedule informational interviews
In addition to Handshake, explore job/internship platforms like Job Search Academy by Indeed and GoinGlobal
Consider applying for micro-internships, which are paid, professional projects; check with OISS before applying
Ensure your resume and cover letter are aligned with the job, internship, or micro-internship of interest to you
Practice your interviewing skills through Big Interview
