- Software engineers and cloud architects command the highest starting salaries, with cloud solutions architects earning up to $180,000 per year.
- Major tech companies like Google, Meta, Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft actively sponsor H-1B visas for international graduates annually.
- STEM graduates receive 36 months total work authorisation through OPT extensions, compared to just 12 months for non-STEM degrees.
California stands as the global technology capital, home to Silicon Valley and countless opportunities for international students pursuing tech careers. For F-1 students, the state offers not just world-class education but also direct pathways to launching careers at leading tech companies.
In this blog, we will explore the most in-demand tech roles for F-1 international students, salary expectations, post-study work options in the USA, and the best universities to kickstart your technology career in California.
Can Students Work in California?
F-1 students hold specific work authorisation options that allow them to gain practical experience in their field of study. Understanding these regulations helps you plan your career timeline effectively from day one of your studies.
International students on F-1 visas can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week when school is in session and full-time during official school breaks.Â
- After completing one full academic year, students become eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for internships directly related to their major.
- Upon graduation, Optional Practical Training (OPT) grants 12 months of work authorisation.
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STEM graduates receiving an additional 24-month extension, totalling 36 months of post-graduation work experience in the United States.
Top Paying Jobs in California – Tech Sector
California’s tech industry spans multiple specialisations, each offering distinct career trajectories and compensation structures. These roles represent the most accessible and high-demand positions for international graduates entering the workforce.
The following positions consistently show strong hiring demand and offer pathways to H-1B visa sponsorship:
Software Engineer
Software engineers design, develop, and maintain applications and systems that power modern technology. Companies across all sectors actively recruit talented developers who can solve complex problems through code.
Average Salary: $115,000 to $185,000 per year (₹1 Cr to ₹1.6 Cr)
Top Recruiters in the USA: Meta, Apple, Salesforce
Data Scientist
Data scientists extract insights from large datasets to drive business decisions and product development. This role combines programming skills with statistical analysis and business acumen.
Average Salary: $120,000 to $180,000 per year (₹1 Cr to ₹1.6 Cr)
Top Recruiters in the USA: IBM, Accenture, Deloitte
Product Manager
Product managers bridge technical teams and business strategy, defining product vision and roadmaps. This role requires strong communication skills alongside technical understanding.
Average Salary: $125,000 to $185,000 per year (₹1 Cr to ₹1.6 Cr)
Top Recruiters in the USA: Google, Amazon, Netflix
UX/UI Designer
UX/UI designers create intuitive, visually appealing interfaces that enhance user experience. California’s design-forward tech culture places high value on skilled designers who understand both aesthetics and functionality.
Average Salary: $90,000 to $145,000 per year (₹80.7 L to ₹1.3 Cr)
Top Recruiters in the USA: Adobe, Airbnb, Figma
Cloud Solutions Architect
Cloud architects design and implement scalable infrastructure solutions using platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. The shift to cloud computing has created sustained demand for these specialists.
Average Salary: $130,000 to $180,000 per year (₹1 Cr to ₹1.6 Cr)
Top Recruiters in the USA: Oracle, Cisco, VMware
Factors Affecting Tech Salaries for F-1 Students in California
Multiple variables influence your earning potential as an international tech professional in California. Understanding these factors helps you make strategic decisions about specialisation, location, and career progression.
Company Type
Compensation varies significantly between startups, mid-size companies, and tech giants. Large technology companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple typically offer the highest total compensation packages, including base salary, stock options, and bonuses.Â
Location Within California
San Francisco and Silicon Valley command the highest salaries due to concentration of major tech companies and intense competition for talent. San Diego and Sacramento offer 15-20% lower salaries but also significantly reduced living costs.
Technical Specialisation
Certain technical skills command premium compensation. Machine learning engineers, blockchain developers, and cybersecurity specialists often earn 20-30% above standard software engineering salaries. Front-end developers typically earn less than back-end or full-stack engineers.Â
Education Level
A master’s degree typically increases starting salaries by $15,000 to $25,000 (₹13.5 L to ₹22.4 L) annually compared to bachelor’s degree holders. PhD graduates often start at senior engineer levels with corresponding compensation. However, practical experience through internships and projects sometimes outweighs advanced degrees for certain roles.
Best Universities for Tech Programmes in California
Selecting the right university shapes your career opportunities, network, and skill development. These California institutions offer world-class technical education with strong connections to the state’s technology industry.Â
| University | Programme Name | QS World University Ranking 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Stanford University | Master of Science in Computer Science | #3 |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences | #17 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Master of Science in Computer Science | #10 |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | Master of Science in Computer Science | #46 |
| University of California, San Diego (UCSD) | Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering | #66 |
Key Takeaways
California continues to lead the global technology industry, offering F-1 students unmatched opportunities to build successful tech careers. Salaries for entry-level positions range from $90,000 to $185,000 (₹80.7 L to ₹1.6 Cr) depending on role and specialisation, with clear pathways for growth and advancement.
Your journey begins with selecting the right university programme that matches your career goals and budget. Whether you attend a top-ranked institution or a more affordable alternative, California’s tech ecosystem rewards talent, dedication, and continuous learning.
The combination of OPT work authorisation, STEM extensions, and active H-1B sponsorship creates viable pathways from student to professional. Companies across the state actively recruit international talent, recognising the diverse perspectives and skills you bring to their teams.Â
Ready to Launch Your Tech Career in California? Start Your Journey Today! At AdmitX, our expert counsellors have successfully guided thousands of Indian students to top US universities, providing comprehensive support, including:
- University Selection Guidance
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Book your FREE study-abroad counselling session with our experts today!Â
FAQs
How long can F-1 STEM graduates work in the USA after graduation?
STEM graduates receive 36 months total work authorisation through 12 months standard OPT plus 24-month STEM extension.
What is the salary range for software engineers in California as F-1 graduates?
Software engineers earn between $115,000 and $185,000 annually (₹1Cr-₹1.6Cr) in California’s tech industry.Â
Can F-1 students work on campus during their studies in California?
Yes, F-1 students can work up to 20 hours weekly on-campus during term and full-time during official breaks.
Which companies are the largest H-1B visa sponsors in California?
Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta represent the largest employment-based visa sponsors annually.
What is the minimum GPA requirement for F-1 visa approval in the USA?
Most universities require a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale for F-1 visa student admission consideration.
Can F-1 students apply for green cards while on OPT in California?
Yes, F-1 students can begin the green card process through employer sponsorship during their OPT period.
What happens if an F-1 student loses their job during OPT in California?
F-1 graduates have 90 days cumulative unemployment allowed during the entire OPT period to find new employment.
Can F-1 students switch from tech to non-tech jobs during OPT?
No, OPT employment must directly relate to the student’s degree major and field of study for compliance.
What salary can I expect after completing a one-year Master's in the USA?
Graduates earn between $79,256 (₹66.18L) and $173,914 (₹145.21L) annually, with IT managers commanding the highest salaries in 2026.
When did Trump increase H-1B visa fees to $100,000 and what is the exact amount in Indian Rupees?
President Trump imposed a $100,000 (₹88.7 lakh) one-time fee for new H-1B petitions on 19th September 2025, effective from 21st September 2025.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
