Working Part-Time: International Students In The Usa

International students enrolled full-time and in valid F-1 status can generally work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the school year and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks. Students with F-1 visas are not permitted to work off-campus during their first academic year, but they may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. After the first academic year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

On-campus jobs for international students in the USA

International students with F1 visas are generally allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours a week when school is in session and up to 40 hours per week during school break periods. Students with F1 visas are not permitted to work off-campus during their first academic year in the United States.

On-campus employment is defined as work that takes place on campus or at an off-campus location that is affiliated with the school. This could include working in a university bookstore, cafeteria, or other facilities that directly provide services for students.

There are several benefits to taking on a part-time job as an international student in the US. Firstly, it can provide extra income to help with living expenses and reduce financial reliance on parents or guardians. Secondly, it can give students valuable work experience and enhance their resumes or CVs. Lastly, part-time work can help students develop independence, time management skills, and social connections.

• Campus ambassador: Campus ambassadors promote the university and show prospective students why they should apply. They may also give guided tours of the campus and share their knowledge and experiences.
• Barista: Working as a barista in a campus coffee shop can be a great way to learn about different drinks and take advantage of employee discounts.
• Teaching assistant: Teaching assistants help fellow students with their course content, reading, or assignments. International students can provide a unique perspective and a different approach to learning.
• Library assistant: Working in the university library can be a quiet and academic-focused role, allowing students to study while also earning.
• Research study assistant: This role involves working on various projects, carrying out research, maintaining lab equipment, and collating results. It can be well-paid and provide valuable research experience.
• Department assistant: Working as an assistant within a specific department can provide transferable skills and a good understanding of the department's functions.
• Catering assistant: Catering assistants work in university cafeterias and restaurants, providing hands-on experience in hospitality.

Off-campus jobs for international students in the USA

International students in the US, typically holding an F-1 visa, can work part-time under certain conditions that adhere to US immigration regulations. F-1 visa holders are generally allowed to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks, enabling them to supplement their income.

On-campus employment is defined as work that takes place on campus or at an off-campus location that is affiliated with the school. This could mean working in a university bookstore, cafeteria, or other facilities where students can help. Employment located on campus that does not directly involve services to students (such as construction work) does not qualify as on-campus employment.

For off-campus employment, F-1 students must have completed one academic year and have their eligibility certified by the Designated School Official (DSO) before starting any work. The DSO will enter their recommendation into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and provide the student with a supporting Form I-20. The student will then need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document with USCIS. Off-campus employment must be related to the student's area of study.

There are two programs specifically created for students who wish to gain experience in their field of study: Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). F-1 students may also be eligible for a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) OPT Extension.

It is important to note that working illegally in the US can lead to serious consequences, including deportation. International students should ensure they follow all rules and regulations when seeking employment.

Internships or co-op programs for international students

International students in the US can pursue internships or co-op programs to gain practical work experience and enhance their employability. Two types of permission-to-work options available to international students in the US are Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows international students to engage in paid or unpaid internships, cooperative education, or other types of work integral to their curriculum or degree program. To be eligible for CPT, students must obtain authorisation from their Designated School Official (DSO) and ensure that the employment is an integral part of their curriculum. CPT can be undertaken while the student is enrolled in their academic program, providing hands-on experience related to their field of study. It is the student's responsibility to apply for CPT, and they must obtain confirmation of the co-op or internship offer from the employer.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT is a temporary employment authorisation program that allows international students with F-1 student visas to work in the US for a specific period after completing their academic program. OPT offers international students the chance to gain practical work experience, enhance their skills, and increase their job prospects.

Co-op Programs

Co-op programs are typically long-term and structured to align with semester durations, ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months. Students in co-op programs alternate between periods of work and study, allowing them to gain immersive experiences in multiple departments and fields within an organisation.

On-Campus and Off-Campus Employment

International students with F1 visas are generally allowed to work on their university campuses for up to 20 hours a week during school sessions and full-time during school breaks. To find on-campus employment, students should connect with their DSO, who can present them with available job opportunities. Off-campus employment is usually restricted during the first academic year for F1 visa holders, but they may engage in specific off-campus employment types after that, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) in STEM fields.

University Support

Universities often have career centres that provide resources and support for students seeking internships and co-ops. Career counsellors can offer guidance, assist with resume and cover letter preparation, conduct mock interviews, and connect students with potential employers. They may also organise career fairs and networking events, facilitating valuable connections for students.

Compliance and Authorisation

It is essential for international students to comply with federal laws and regulations when seeking employment in the United States. Students must work with their DSO and, in some cases, apply for an Employment Authorisation Document with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Compliance with regulations, such as demonstrating the ability to afford living expenses before entering the US, is crucial to maintaining student status and avoiding legal consequences.

Work eligibility requirements for international students in the USA

International students with F1 visas are generally allowed to work on their university campus for up to 20 hours a week. Students can work full-time during school break periods, up to 40 hours per week. On-campus employment includes work that takes place on campus or at an off-campus location affiliated with the school, such as a university bookstore or cafeteria.

After the first academic year, F1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

To be eligible for CPT, students must have a job offer that qualifies and must be in good academic standing. CPT authorization specifies whether a student is approved for part-time (20 hours per week or less) or full-time employment. Students who work full-time on CPT for 12 months or more are not eligible for OPT.

OPT is permitted for up to 12 months full-time in total. If a student works part-time on OPT (while still in school), the available full-time OPT is reduced by half the amount of part-time work. For example, if a student works part-time for 6 months, they can work full-time for up to 9 months.

F1 students may also be eligible to work off-campus on a case-by-case basis due to severe economic hardship or special student relief. To be eligible, students must have been enrolled for at least one academic year and be in good academic standing.

To apply for off-campus employment, students must first obtain an internship offer with an international organization and then work with the Designated School Official (DSO) to apply for an Employment Authorization Document with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The DSO will determine the student's eligibility and enter their recommendation into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The DSO will then provide the student with Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," and Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization."

Practical training programs for international students in theUSA

International students in the USA on F-1 visas are generally allowed to work on the campus of their university for up to 20 hours a week. Students can work part-time during their study years, but they must first talk with their designated school official (DSO). The DSO will present the student with the jobs that are available.

There are two programs specifically designed for students who want to gain experience in their field of study: Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). CPT is an alternative work/study, internship, or practicum that a sponsoring employer offers through cooperative agreements with the student's college or university. CPT is only available for F-1 students when it is part of an established curriculum within a school and must be integral to their program of study. CPT can be full-time and is not restricted by a weekly 20-hour work limit. To qualify for CPT, students must be an F-1 student and have completed one full academic year of study at an SEVP-certified school, unless they are a graduate student whose program requires immediate CPT. Students who complete one year or more of full-time CPT are ineligible to participate in post-completion OPT. To get permission for CPT, the DSO needs to authorize it in SEVIS and provide an updated Form I-20 indicating the student's authorization for the training opportunity.

OPT is a form of training that directly relates to the student's program of study and can take place during their program (pre-completion) or after finishing it (post-completion). Twelve months of OPT is available for each higher level of study. Pre-completion OPT may be part-time or full-time but may not exceed 20 hours per week while school is in session. Pre-completion OPT impacts the amount of time a student is eligible for post-completion OPT at the same degree level. To be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, students must be currently participating in a regular period of OPT, have received a STEM degree at the undergraduate level or higher, and seek a training opportunity related to this degree. The degree must be from a currently accredited SEVP-certified college or university, and the employer must use the E-Verify program. The student and employer must complete and sign Form I-983, "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students".

Practical training is the only type of work permission available to M-1 students, who are only eligible to participate in one type of paid training with an employer, referred to as practical training (PT). PT must directly relate to the student's program of study and allows them to gain training experience in their vocational field. M-1 students may only participate in PT after their program completion, earning one month of PT eligibility for every four months of program enrollment. They must obtain authorization from the USCIS before participating in PT and may need to apply for an extension of status at the same time.

Frequently asked questions