International Students Face Big Hurdles in U.S. Job Market

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Vietnamese international students in the U.S. are finding job searches increasingly difficult due to a weak market, stricter visa regulations, and the rise of artificial intelligence. Despite applying to hundreds of roles, many, like Hung, a master’s student in Chemistry, have received no job offers after submitting over 1,000 applications. Thao, a Columbia University graduate, faced similar challenges, reflecting a widespread issue among international graduates.

The U.S. job market has remained sluggish for about a year, with job openings at their lowest since 2014, excluding early Covid-19 months. The number of international students has reached over 1.18 million, with Vietnamese students accounting for around 25,600. Economists note that persistent inflation and changing tax policies make companies cautious about hiring, prioritizing only essential positions.

Artificial intelligence has exacerbated the situation, leading to over one million job cuts by U.S. employers this year. Visa issues add another layer of difficulty, as most students need an H-1B visa sponsorship to stay and work, which employers are often reluctant to provide due to proposed fees and complex paperwork. Many students resort to impersonal application strategies, leading to rejections.

Expert advice suggests focusing on targeted applications and networking, which proved successful for Thao after realizing the importance of connections. Hung continues his job search, willing to relocate and adapt to lower expectations, yet determined to find an initial opportunity. If no prospects emerge by February, he plans to return to Vietnam, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. job market challenges are heightened for international students.
• Visa complications and AI advancements limit job opportunities.
• Networking and targeted applications improve chances of success.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-12-18