OPT Correspondent Jobs
Correspondent roles are available to F-1 OPT students with degrees in journalism, communications, or international studies. Your OPT work authorization must directly relate to your field of study, and STEM OPT extension is not available for this role, so the standard 12-month OPT window applies.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The position is described below. If you want to apply, click the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this page. After you click Apply Now and complete your application, you'll be invited to create a profile, which will let you see your application status and any communications. If you already have a profile with us, you can log in to check status.
Need Help?
If you have a disability and need assistance with the application, you can request a reasonable accommodation. Send an email to Accessibility (accommodation requests only; other inquiries won't receive a response).
Regular or Temporary:
Regular
Language Fluency: English (Required)
Work Shift:
1st shift (United States of America)
Please review the following job description:
Review non delegated, specialty, and complex closed loan files to determine if they meet regulatory and investor requirements for purchase. Knowledge of closing documents, Settlement conditions, loan disclosures, compliance timelines, fees and other mortgage documents required on a complex closed mortgage loan. Ability to identify deficiencies in the loan documentation and pend appropriately. Serve as Trainee mentor and or SME when needed. Attention to detail is critical for this position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Following is a summary of the essential functions for this job. Other duties may be performed, both major and minor, which are not mentioned below. Specific activities may change from time to time.
-
Review non-delegated, specialty or complex closed loan packages for key documents. Ability to review multiple different products and review checklist including Full Review and or Non Delegated Reviews.
-
Review key data points and documents within the loan package to determine if the loan is acceptable for purchase.
-
Clear underwriting settlement conditions and ensure HMDA audit is completed prior to moving file. Interact with underwriting as needed to ensure loan purchased meets underwriting criteria.
-
Complete compliance testing of key data elements.
-
Enter, validate, and correct information in Lending Space to ensure data integrity.
-
Communicate loan defects in clear and concise stipulations.
-
Maintain Production, Quality and Service Level Standards set by Manager and Review Type.
-
Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) and assist with training and escalation of junior level reviewers.
-
Ensure loan is escalated appropriately to escalation points if applicable.
-
Ensure work product i.e. checklists and LVDC are uploaded according to policy.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
-
3+ years of experience in a similar or transferable role within Mortgage.
-
Ability to work independently.
-
Strong attention to detail.
-
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
-
Working Knowledge of mortgage loan documents.
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and related training.
-
3+ years of experience in lending or finance, preferably in mortgage originations.
-
Processing or junior Underwriting experience.
-
Demonstrated proficiency in one or more of the following: Lending Space, Compliance Ease, and MERS.
OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS
Sitting/Standing/Walking/Bending/Lifting
-
Sitting (if checked, indicate frequency): Constantly (More than 50% of the time)
-
Standing (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Walking (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Bending (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Lifting (if checked, indicate pounds): Choose an item.
-
Visual / Audio / Speaking: Able to access and interpret client information received from the computer and able to hear and speak with individuals in person and on the phone.
-
Manual Dexterity / Keyboarding: Able to work standard office equipment, including PC keyboard and mouse, copy/fax machines, and printers.
-
Availability: Able to work all hours scheduled, including overtime as directed by manager/supervisor and required by business need.
-
Travel (Must select one): Minimal and up to 10%.
The annual base salary for this position is $45,760.00 - $70,940.00.
General Description of Available Benefits for Eligible Employees of Truist Financial Corporation: All regular teammates (not temporary or contingent workers) working 20 hours or more per week are eligible for benefits, though eligibility for specific benefits may be determined by the division of Truist offering the position. Truist offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, accidental death and dismemberment, tax-preferred savings accounts, and a 401k plan to teammates. Teammates also receive no less than 10 days of vacation (prorated based on date of hire and by full-time or part-time status) during their first year of employment, along with 10 sick days (also prorated), and paid holidays. For more details on Truist’s generous benefit plans, please visit our Benefits site. Depending on the position and division, this job may also be eligible for Truist’s defined benefit pension plan, restricted stock units, and/or a deferred compensation plan. As you advance through the hiring process, you will also learn more about the specific benefits available for any non-temporary position for which you apply, based on full-time or part-time status, position, and division of work.
Truist is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, citizenship or national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law. Truist is a Drug Free Workplace.
EEO is the Law E-Verify IER Right to Work
INTRODUCTION
The position is described below. If you want to apply, click the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this page. After you click Apply Now and complete your application, you'll be invited to create a profile, which will let you see your application status and any communications. If you already have a profile with us, you can log in to check status.
Need Help?
If you have a disability and need assistance with the application, you can request a reasonable accommodation. Send an email to Accessibility (accommodation requests only; other inquiries won't receive a response).
Regular or Temporary:
Regular
Language Fluency: English (Required)
Work Shift:
1st shift (United States of America)
Please review the following job description:
Review non delegated, specialty, and complex closed loan files to determine if they meet regulatory and investor requirements for purchase. Knowledge of closing documents, Settlement conditions, loan disclosures, compliance timelines, fees and other mortgage documents required on a complex closed mortgage loan. Ability to identify deficiencies in the loan documentation and pend appropriately. Serve as Trainee mentor and or SME when needed. Attention to detail is critical for this position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Following is a summary of the essential functions for this job. Other duties may be performed, both major and minor, which are not mentioned below. Specific activities may change from time to time.
-
Review non-delegated, specialty or complex closed loan packages for key documents. Ability to review multiple different products and review checklist including Full Review and or Non Delegated Reviews.
-
Review key data points and documents within the loan package to determine if the loan is acceptable for purchase.
-
Clear underwriting settlement conditions and ensure HMDA audit is completed prior to moving file. Interact with underwriting as needed to ensure loan purchased meets underwriting criteria.
-
Complete compliance testing of key data elements.
-
Enter, validate, and correct information in Lending Space to ensure data integrity.
-
Communicate loan defects in clear and concise stipulations.
-
Maintain Production, Quality and Service Level Standards set by Manager and Review Type.
-
Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) and assist with training and escalation of junior level reviewers.
-
Ensure loan is escalated appropriately to escalation points if applicable.
-
Ensure work product i.e. checklists and LVDC are uploaded according to policy.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
-
3+ years of experience in a similar or transferable role within Mortgage.
-
Ability to work independently.
-
Strong attention to detail.
-
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
-
Working Knowledge of mortgage loan documents.
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and related training.
-
3+ years of experience in lending or finance, preferably in mortgage originations.
-
Processing or junior Underwriting experience.
-
Demonstrated proficiency in one or more of the following: Lending Space, Compliance Ease, and MERS.
OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS
Sitting/Standing/Walking/Bending/Lifting
-
Sitting (if checked, indicate frequency): Constantly (More than 50% of the time)
-
Standing (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Walking (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Bending (if checked, indicate frequency): Choose an item.
-
Lifting (if checked, indicate pounds): Choose an item.
-
Visual / Audio / Speaking: Able to access and interpret client information received from the computer and able to hear and speak with individuals in person and on the phone.
-
Manual Dexterity / Keyboarding: Able to work standard office equipment, including PC keyboard and mouse, copy/fax machines, and printers.
-
Availability: Able to work all hours scheduled, including overtime as directed by manager/supervisor and required by business need.
-
Travel (Must select one): Minimal and up to 10%.
The annual base salary for this position is $45,760.00 - $70,940.00.
General Description of Available Benefits for Eligible Employees of Truist Financial Corporation: All regular teammates (not temporary or contingent workers) working 20 hours or more per week are eligible for benefits, though eligibility for specific benefits may be determined by the division of Truist offering the position. Truist offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, accidental death and dismemberment, tax-preferred savings accounts, and a 401k plan to teammates. Teammates also receive no less than 10 days of vacation (prorated based on date of hire and by full-time or part-time status) during their first year of employment, along with 10 sick days (also prorated), and paid holidays. For more details on Truist’s generous benefit plans, please visit our Benefits site. Depending on the position and division, this job may also be eligible for Truist’s defined benefit pension plan, restricted stock units, and/or a deferred compensation plan. As you advance through the hiring process, you will also learn more about the specific benefits available for any non-temporary position for which you apply, based on full-time or part-time status, position, and division of work.
Truist is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, citizenship or national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law. Truist is a Drug Free Workplace.
EEO is the Law E-Verify IER Right to Work
See all OPT Correspondent Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Correspondent Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Correspondent
Lead with your reporting portfolio
Employers hiring correspondents evaluate published clips before anything else. Compile bylined articles, broadcast segments, or multimedia pieces that demonstrate field reporting, source development, and clear storytelling under deadline pressure.
Be transparent about your OPT timeline
Correspondent roles require ongoing employer authorization. Tell hiring managers upfront that you hold F-1 OPT and clarify your end date. Newsrooms that have hired international reporters before will understand what authorization continuation requires after OPT expires.
Target newsrooms with international hiring history
Larger outlets, wire services, and public broadcasters are more familiar with work authorization processes. Organizations with foreign bureaus or multilingual desks often have HR infrastructure that handles international journalists and visa documentation efficiently.
Highlight language skills and regional expertise
Fluency in a second language or deep knowledge of a specific region significantly strengthens your candidacy. Employers value correspondents who can cover underreported areas or conduct interviews that English-only reporters cannot, creating a clear business case for sponsorship.
Verify your degree ties directly to the role
USCIS requires OPT employment to be directly related to your major. A journalism or communications degree maps cleanly to correspondent work. If your degree is in a related but less obvious field, prepare a brief explanation of the connection before your interview.
Apply early relative to your OPT start date
Onboarding at media organizations takes time. Start applying at least two to three months before your OPT authorization begins so hiring, credentialing, and paperwork align with your legal work start date without gaps that could jeopardize your status.
Correspondent OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a correspondent on F-1 OPT?
Yes, as long as the correspondent role directly relates to your field of study. Journalism, communications, international studies, and political science degrees commonly satisfy this requirement. You must have your OPT Employment Authorization Document before your first day of work. Freelance correspondent arrangements are permitted, but you must track your hours carefully since OPT requires you to work at least 20 hours per week.
Is the STEM OPT extension available for correspondent jobs?
No. Correspondent roles fall under journalism and media, which are not STEM-designated fields. That means you are limited to the standard 12-month OPT period. Planning your transition to H-1B visa or another visa well before your OPT end date is essential. Some employers in media are willing to sponsor O-1A or H-1B petitions for journalists with strong editorial track records.
Can I work as a freelance or independent correspondent on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT. As a freelance correspondent you can contribute to multiple outlets, provided all work relates directly to your degree field. You are responsible for tracking your own employment hours and maintaining documentation showing active engagement. You should report self-employment to your DSO, who will update your SEVIS record accordingly to keep your status valid.
Where can I find correspondent jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is the recommended platform for F-1 OPT students searching for correspondent roles. The job board surfaces opportunities from employers with a demonstrated history of hiring international candidates, saving you time filtering through postings where OPT is not a realistic option. Searching there lets you focus your applications on newsrooms and media organizations already familiar with work authorization processes.
What happens to my OPT status if a correspondent contract ends between assignments?
OPT allows up to 90 days of cumulative unemployment, not per gap but across your entire OPT period. If your contract ends, that unemployment clock starts immediately. Short gaps between freelance assignments are common in journalism, so tracking your days carefully is critical. Securing your next assignment or a part-time reporting role before the 90-day threshold protects your status from falling out of compliance.