Postsecondary planning
As graduating high school students, you have various options to pursue further education, training, or career opportunities.
While your immigration status limits the opportunities available to you, you still have options. While your path may look different, it does not mean you cannot achieve your goals.
Higher Education
Pursuing degrees such as associates (2 years), bachelor’s (4+ years), or advanced degrees at colleges or universities. This can take anything from 2 years to 4+, depending on your end goal.
Reminder: For those planning to study out of state, ensure that the university/state you’re planning on attending is friendly towards the immigrant community. Click here for a map.
Employment
Many choose to start working right after graduation to gain experience, earn income, or explore career options. It is important to understand where you stand in the immigration spectrum to know what your options may be.
With a valid work permit, you can legally work in the U.S. The specifics of how many hours you can work depend on the conditions of your permit.
If you are fully undocumented, an Individual Tax Identification Number can help you work as a non-employee (freelancer or independent contractor) and to pay taxes, even though it doesn’t provide legal work authorization. For more information on employment click here.
Trades | Apprenticeships
This option provides hands-on training to become skilled in a trade, like an electrician, plumber, or solar panel installer. Working in the trades can be a great option for students in the immigration spectrum. Many trades allow you to earn certifications and work as a self-employed professional. Again, make sure you know where you stand in the immigration spectrum to ensure you know whether you will be working with or without a work permit. For a list of programs offered by City Colleges of Chicago, visit their page.
Gap Year
A gap year is a year-long break taken by students to figure out their next steps. This is an opportunity to grow, explore, and prepare for your future. You can do this through travel, work, internships, and volunteering.
Military
Serving in the armed forces, which can provide discipline, training, and education benefits. The citizenship requirements to join the U.S. military vary slightly depending on the branch of service and the role you are applying for. You must possess a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Non-citizens without a Green Card are generally ineligible to enlist. For more information visit this page.
Need more details?
A workbook was developed to provide more information on all the options students in the immigration spectrum have after graduation.
