Ibrahim Gardner
International students in the United States may come across the term work-study when searching for on-campus jobs. Work-study is a US government program that allows undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs to work part-time and earn money to pay for their education. Unfortunately, international students don't frequently qualify for work-study as most positions are federally funded and require the completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). However, international students can still find employment opportunities while enrolled, such as on-campus jobs, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT). Additionally, working while studying can help international students finance their expenses, gain real-world experience, and improve their English skills in a professional environment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Federal work-study availability for international students | Not frequently available for international students as most positions are federally funded |
| Work-study definition | A US government program that assists students with financial needs to work part-time and earn money for education |
| Work-study eligibility | Determined by financial need; students must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) |
| Work-study job types | On-campus and off-campus jobs, including community service, research assistant, and private employers |
| Alternatives for international students | On-campus jobs, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT) |
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What You'll Learn
International students' eligibility for work-study in the US
International students in the US often face high tuition fees and additional costs for books, health insurance, room and board, and transportation. To help finance their education, many students seek part-time employment.
While federal work-study programs are not available to international students, as they are federally funded, there are other opportunities for international students to work while studying. Firstly, some schools have special policies that allow international students to access jobs reserved for federal work-study students. For example, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Mary Washington offer work-study programs funded by institutional money rather than federal funds. Secondly, international students can seek on-campus employment, which is the most freely available type of work for students. However, international students may need to obtain permission from the International Student Office and may not be permitted to work in their first semester or year. Thirdly, international students can seek off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which is available to F-1 students when practical training is an integral part of their curriculum. Prior authorization from the school's International Student Office and notification to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is required. Finally, after completing their degree, international students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work off-campus in their field of study.
It is important to note that the ability to work on or off-campus may depend on the type of visa held by the student. F-1 and M-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas that allow students to enter the US provided they are enrolled in an approved academic or vocational program. F-1 students may not work off-campus during their first academic year but may accept on-campus employment. After the first year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT). M-1 visa students must ensure that any off-campus training employment is related to their area of study and is authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS.
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Work-study alternatives for international students
International students in the United States might come across the term "work-study" when searching for on-campus jobs. Work-study is a US government program that allows eligible undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs to work part-time and earn money to pay for their education. Unfortunately, as the program is federally funded, it is not open to international students.
However, international students have several alternatives to work-study programs that can help them finance their education and gain valuable experience. Here are some options:
On-Campus Jobs
Some colleges, like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), encourage all students to work during the academic year. They offer jobs in on- and off-campus offices, labs, and other departments that align with students' interests. While some of these jobs may be labelled as "work-study," most are not and are open to international students. It is important to note that the ability to work on or off-campus may depend on the student's visa type, so reviewing applicable policies is essential.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
A growing number of schools in the US offer specialized CPT programs that allow international students to work from the moment they arrive on campus. CPT provides an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in one's field of study while earning an income.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
International students can also explore OPT opportunities, which can provide valuable work experience and potentially help finance their studies.
Off-Campus Employment
International students can also seek off-campus employment, although this may be subject to visa restrictions. Working off-campus can provide a broader range of job opportunities and potentially higher wages compared to on-campus jobs.
Studying in Other Countries
International students may also consider studying in countries that offer more work opportunities for students. Countries like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany are known for their top-ranked universities, post-study work visas, part-time job opportunities, and student-friendly immigration policies. These countries can provide a smooth transition into the workforce while offering a globally recognised degree.
In conclusion, while international students in the US may not be eligible for federal work-study programs, they have several alternatives to balance their studies and work. These options can provide financial support, practical experience, and the opportunity to build a professional network.
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On-campus jobs for international students
On-campus jobs can be a great way for international students to earn some extra money and gain work experience. In the US, international students on F-1 visas can work on campus from their first year, which is especially helpful as there is often a waiting period for off-campus work. There is no limit to the number of months you can work on campus, as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student. However, you can only work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the fall and winter semesters, and 40 hours per week during the summer and university breaks.
There are many on-campus jobs available to international students, and they can be found in the same way as domestic students. Many US colleges have online job boards, where you can filter for 'On-Campus' jobs. You can also look for physical job boards on campus, or go to places you might like to work, such as the library or cafeteria, and ask if they are hiring.
International students are not eligible for federal work-study programs as these are only for US citizens and permanent residents. However, some universities offer institutionally-funded work-study programs for international students. It is important to check with your school's international student services office to understand the exact policies around on-campus work for international students, as these can vary.
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Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 international students to participate in paid and unpaid off-campus internships and practicums during their degree program. CPT is meant to serve an academic purpose, and the internship or practicum must be considered an integral part of a student's degree program.
To be eligible for CPT, students must have maintained their F-1 status each semester and be enrolled full-time for the semester they wish to pursue CPT. An exception to this rule is during the student's final semester. Students who were granted CPT but drop below the full course load will need to stop working immediately and notify the Office of International Services (OIS) of this change.
To apply for CPT, students must first secure an internship offer and enrol in a full course load or indicate that they are in their final semester. They must then register for an internship course, if applicable, and complete the CPT I-20 Request Form, attaching an internship offer letter for review by their Academic Advisor or Internship Coordinator. Graduate engineering students, for example, would need to register for the appropriate ENGR course.
It is important to note that CPT may impact a student's eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. If a student completes 12 months or more of full-time CPT, they become ineligible for OPT. However, part-time CPT does not affect OPT eligibility.
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Visa requirements for international students working on-campus
International students in Australia, the US, and the UK can work while studying, provided they have a valid student visa and adhere to specific rules and restrictions. Here are the visa requirements for international students seeking on-campus employment in these countries:
Australia
To work on-campus in Australia, international students must obtain a student visa. This visa allows students to work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and without any limit during recognised school vacations. It is important to note that students cannot begin working until after their courses have commenced. Additionally, volunteer and unpaid work count towards the weekly hour restriction. The visa application process requires acceptance into an Australian educational institute and a confirmation of enrolment. Students must also maintain satisfactory attendance, course progress, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
United States
International students in the US typically need a nonimmigrant F-1 or M-1 visa to study full-time. F-1 visa holders may accept on-campus employment during their first academic year, subject to conditions and restrictions. After the first year, they may engage in off-campus employment, including STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT) and off-campus work due to special situations. M-1 visa holders, on the other hand, can only engage in practical training after completing their studies, and their training must be related to their area of study and authorised by the Designated School Official.
United Kingdom
International students at UK universities on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time, including paid and unpaid work. This limit cannot be averaged over a longer period. It is important to note that student visas do not permit self-employment or business activity, which includes activities like freelance work, private tutoring, or holding a statutory role in a company. Universities may have stricter working restrictions than those outlined in the student visa requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
Work-study is a US government program that allows undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs to work part-time and earn money to pay for their education.
International students don't frequently qualify for work-study as the majority of these positions are federally funded and therefore only available to students who have completed the FAFSA. However, international students can still find employment while enrolled, such as on-campus jobs, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
International students can seek guidance from the office of career services or the international students' office to review what job opportunities might be available. They can also work on-campus jobs, which some universities like MIT encourage.
Working while studying can help international students gain real-world experience in their field of study, meet new people, and expand their network. It can also help them practice English in a professional environment, and prepare for work after college.
