Hiring a Recent BU Graduate

While international students may be eligible to work on-campus during their program of study, the rules governing employment eligibility change at the completion of their degree program at BU.

Recent BU graduates may apply for employment authorization to allow them to work in the U.S. after completing their degree. Students who are completing their degree program should plan ahead to ensure that they have the necessary employment authorization to work. Without advance planning, a seamless transition from student employment to non-student employment may be difficult.  There may be a period where the individual may not be eligible for employment.

As an administrator, please note the following when hiring a recent graduate:

  • End of BU ‘Student Employment’— BU’s Student Employment Office has strict guidelines and deadlines related to student employment at BU. Please pay particular attention to the semester employment deadlines
  • To transition to a research, teaching, or other position at BU— In order hire a BU graduate, please be aware that ALL of the following conditions must be met:
    • The student must obtain the appropriate post-completion employment authorization (i.e., Optional Practical Training or Academic Training);
    • The position that you are hiring them into at BU must be related to their BU program of study; and
    • The student must complete their I-9 and ISSO clearance before their third day of employment at BU. See our general onboarding reminders.

Other important considerations:

  • Working without authorization is a serious violation of status; hiring departments should not allow the individual to engage in any activity until the work authorization is obtained
  • OPT filing timelines can vary; students should apply as early as possible. See details on how BU graduates can apply.
  • Graduates from other schools will need to follow OPT instructions from their sponsoring institution, but timelines, restrictions, and general processes remain.

Please contact your scholar advisor if you have questions related to employing a recent BU graduate.