F-1 Student Faces Job Dilemma: Bengaluru vs. U.S. Offer
An F-1 student is grappling with a tough choice between two job offers. One is for ₹28 LPA (Lakhs Per Annum) in Bengaluru, India, while the other offers $60,000 annually in the United States, where he has been working for the past four months.
Having moved to the U.S. to pursue his master’s degree, the student shared his journey on Reddit, recounting a year of obstacles before finally landing a job. However, he noted that his current salary seems low compared to what he could earn in India.
He recently received a notice that he was selected for an H-1B visa, which is currently being processed. Despite this fortunate opportunity, he remains uncertain about his future, especially with an eye on the length of his stay in the U.S.
“I’m in a very confusing state,” he wrote. “I came to the U.S. for my master’s. After much effort, I finally got a job 4 months ago. Now, I have an offer from India for ₹28 LPA. My H-1B was picked this year but isn’t processed yet, and my STEM OPT visa is valid until July 2026. I always planned to return to India after my STEM OPT expires to be with my aging parents. The question is whether I should accept the offer and move back or stay here in the U.S.”
This post has sparked considerable discussion, highlighting the worries surrounding the H-1B visa process, especially with changing regulations that have made it increasingly challenging for Indian nationals. Many social media users weighed in, noting that while $60,000 may sound appealing, it is relatively low for the U.S., particularly outside major cities like Silicon Valley or New York.
Many comments leaned toward supporting the Bengaluru offer. They pointed out that the cost of living in Philadelphia can be quite high, making ₹28 LPA a practical choice.
“Go to India. $60K is not enough in the U.S. ₹28 LPA is a good offer,” advised one user. Another added, “Unless you believe you can quickly get your salary to a higher level in the U.S., take the offer from India.”
Some users emphasized the need to weigh current job markets carefully, with opinions divided on which option might lead to greater financial stability in the long run.
Overall, this student’s situation underscores the complex decisions many international students face when entering the job market.
