How to Choose the Right Major as an International Student

Choosing a major is a big decision for any student – there’s less room for error for international students who need to work around visa rules, employment authorization, cost of tuition, cultural adjustment, and long-term career strategy. It’s not just about choosing what you like to do, but also choosing what gives you long-term options.

Though U.S. universities provide students liberties to switch majors throughout their studies, having an idea in mind is key to help you make the right decision in terms of choosing your school and making sure you’re prepared for the visa application process.

With this, we list some key points to keep in mind as you choose what major to commit to.

Importance of Declaring Your Major Early

Though schools offer the option to switch majors or even start your studies as “Undeclared”, it’s often not in the best interest for international students.

For undergraduates – you will generally be asked to talk about why you are choosing to study in the U.S. during your F1 visa interview. Embassy consulates will usually want to hear a direct answer about what you plan to study, why you chose your school and why you think studying in the U.S. provides value. Having a set plan of attack for your studies will make you a lot better prepared.

For graduates – U.S. graduate programs are specialized so you must have a set area of focus you want your degree to reflect.

In addition, most universities have multiple schools/campuses that host different areas of studies. Application processes may be different depending on the school despite them being affiliated with the same university.

How To Choose Your Major

1. Start With Your Interests - But Go Deeper

Above everything else – the major you choose should be something you’re interested in. You’re making a commitment to pursue your studies in a different country, so it’s best to put that commitment into something you know you enjoy and can put energy towards.

The best way to pick your path is to weigh what subjects/specialties you’ve enjoyed in school and think practically about what major will make the most of these interests.

It’s easy to say, “I’m good at math, so I’ll study engineering,” or “I like people, so maybe business.” But it’s best to go deeper than surface-level preferences.

College majors aren’t just subjects - they shape the kind of daily work you’ll eventually do. For example, studying computer science isn’t just “coding”; it can mean data analysis, cybersecurity, product development, etc.

Before you commit, check out free online resources for your major and see if your school offers any introductory courses you can take before applying.

2. Understand Career and Visa Implications

As an international student on an F-1 visa, your major can directly impact how long you can work in the U.S. after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT).

All F-1 students are eligible for 12 months of OPT after completing their degree. However, if you graduate with a STEM-designated major (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics), you may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing you to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months total.

STEM-designated programs are defined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and published on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Fields such as engineering, computer science, data analytics, mathematics, certain economics programs, and biotechnology often qualify.

This doesn’t mean you should automatically choose STEM just for visa benefits - but it’s an important factor to consider if your long-term goal includes U.S. work experience.

3. Research Job Market Trends and Consider ROI

Studying in the U.S. is expensive – but the education you receive is often worth the weight. You don’t need to chase trends blindly, but you should be aware of demand and how you can make up for the cost of tuition.

Look at:

• Employment growth projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Internship availability in your field
• Salary ranges
• Sponsorship likelihood for H-1B visas

Some fields historically offer more employer sponsorship opportunities than others. Tech, engineering, healthcare, and quantitative finance tend to have stronger sponsorship pipelines compared to certain creative or humanities fields.

If working in the U.S. after graduation is important to you, it’s smart to align your major with industries that regularly hire international graduates.

4. Talk to Advisors Early

Your Designated School Official (DSO), academic advisors, and career center staff are key resources. They can help you understand:

• Whether a major qualifies for STEM OPT
• Internship requirements (Curricular Practical Training – CPT)
• Graduation timelines
• Double major or minor options

Many international students don’t ask these questions early enough. Don’t wait until senior year.

How To Switch Majors As An International Student

1. Speak to Your DSO First

Changing your major may require an update to your SEVIS record and a new Form I-20. Always consult your DSO before finalizing any change to ensure you maintain F-1 status.

2. Check Program Timelines

If switching majors extends your graduation date, you may need to request a program extension. This must be approved before your current I-20 end date.

3. Confirm STEM Designation

If you’re switching into or out of a STEM-designated program, understand how that affects future OPT eligibility. Your CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs code) determines whether your degree qualifies for STEM OPT.

4. Evaluate Financial Impact

Some majors require additional semesters, labs, or prerequisites. Make sure you understand tuition implications.

5. Act Early

Switching during your first or second year is much easier than during your final year. The earlier you pivot, the more flexibility you have.

Picking a major to pursue in the U.S. is a tough decision – and so is choosing the right health insurance plan. ISO Student Health Insurance offers plans at 3,200 universities for anyone with a valid F1 visa, supporting you no matter what you study. Find a plan that works for you today!