Savanna Hoffman
Working at a university while being a student is possible, and many universities allow employees to take classes. However, it's important to distinguish between taking classes and being enrolled in a degree program, as the latter often has additional requirements for graduation, such as internships, thesis projects, and faculty meetings. While working at a university, students can generally take classes at any level as long as they satisfy the prerequisites, even if they are not enrolled in a specific program. Nevertheless, taking courses and performing well in them can strengthen an application for enrollment in a degree program.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| F-1 Visa (Academic Student) | Allows full-time students to enrol in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. |
| M-1 Visa (Vocational Student) | For students in vocational or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. |
| F-1 Visa students' employment | May accept on-campus employment in the first year, subject to conditions. May engage in three types of off-campus employment after the first year, including STEM OPT. |
| M-1 Visa students' employment | Any off-campus training employment must be related to the area of study and authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS. |
| Student/Tier 4 Visa | Requires a formal worker's agreement or employment contract before undertaking any work, including undergraduate supervisions or other work within the Collegiate University. |
| Cambridge University students | Not expected to work during term time, but many work during vacations. |
| Cambridge University postgraduate research students | Expected to devote 40 hours per week to studies, but can take holidays (up to 8 weeks per year) with supervisor approval. |
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What You'll Learn
Working on a student visa
Generally, to study as a full-time student in the United States, you will need a student visa. The two types of nonimmigrant visas available for students are the F-1 Visa (Academic Student) and the M-1 Visa (Vocational Student).
F-1 Visa
The F-1 Visa allows you to enter the US as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, or other academic institution, or in a language training program. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment, subject to certain conditions and restrictions, during their first academic year. After the first year, they may engage in three types of off-campus employment, provided it is related to their area of study and is authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS. Examples of on-campus employment include working at a university bookstore or cafeteria. Active F-1 students may apply for on-campus employment up to 30 days before the start of classes. However, they may not work more than 20 hours per week when school is in session.
M-1 Visa
The M-1 Visa is for students in vocational or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies. Off-campus training employment must be related to their area of study and authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS.
Social Security Number
All students who wish to work in the US must apply for a Social Security Number. Only aliens who have permission from DHS to work can apply for a Social Security number.
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Working while studying at Cambridge
For students at Cambridge University, the University itself recommends limiting work to 6-10 hours per week. However, students must not exceed 20 hours of work each week, including both paid and unpaid work. This restriction applies all year round, not just during term time. The only exemption is for students who are employed full-time as research assistants by the University and who are working full-time on their PhD research.
Students on a Tier 4 visa are subject to additional restrictions, including on the types of work that may be undertaken. Taught Master's students are allowed to work any hours during official vacation times but not during term time. Postgraduate research students should note that their academic year runs continuously from 1 October to 30 September, so it is not possible to undertake full-time work during the summer period.
Students who are not studying on a Tier 4/Student visa can continue to work full-time during the period between official notification of the viva outcome and unconditional approval of the degree, unless the viva outcome is 'revise and resubmit', in which case the University's 20-hour working restriction applies. Students on a Tier 4/Student visa can only work for up to 20 hours a week in accordance with the conditions of their visa.
International students with a Student visa should be aware that they are not allowed to work at all if they are studying a course part-time. During term time, they must not exceed 20 hours of work per week, and this includes any 'on-call' hours where they are required to be in a particular place. If working in more than one job, the total hours across all jobs must not exceed 20 hours. All work undertaken while physically in the UK is subject to the employment restriction, even if the employer is based outside of the UK.
If you are going to be working for a college, you should receive an email confirming that they have informed the College Student Visa Monitoring Service. You must also apply for a National Insurance Number (NINo) if you start working in the UK, including any form of teaching at Cambridge.
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Working during holidays
Taking on work during the holidays while at university is a great way to develop transferable skills and gain expertise and knowledge in a specific sector. It is important to remember to take time to rest during the holidays, but working during this period can be a good option for many students.
If you are an international student, it is important to check the visa requirements for working in the country you are studying in. For example, in the US, students with an F-1 visa are not allowed to work off-campus during their first academic year, but they may accept on-campus employment, provided it adheres to certain conditions and restrictions. After their first year, F-1 visa students can take on off-campus employment, but it must be related to their area of study and be authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS.
When applying for jobs during the holidays, it is important to have an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unsure about your application, many universities offer careers services that can review your application and provide guidance.
A temporary job during the holidays can provide valuable experience and help develop your skills. For example, working in a cafe will likely involve working as part of a team, ensuring customers are served, maintaining cleanliness, and managing stock levels. These skills can be transferable to other areas of your life and future employment.
Overall, working during the holidays while at university can be a rewarding experience, providing you balance it with rest and ensure you are adhering to any visa requirements.
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On-campus vs. off-campus employment
Working while studying can be a great way to earn some extra money and gain valuable work experience. When it comes to choosing between on-campus and off-campus employment, there are several factors to consider.
On-Campus Employment
On-campus jobs are often conveniently located, reducing travel time and transportation costs. These jobs usually offer flexible hours, accommodating a student's academic schedule and providing time off during school breaks. On-campus jobs often provide tuition assistance and academic benefits, helping to reduce student loan debt. Students with on-campus jobs become better acquainted with faculty, staff, and other students, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, on-campus jobs typically pay at least the federal minimum wage, and sometimes more, though the options may be limited.
Off-Campus Employment
Off-campus jobs may offer higher wages and more variety in terms of job opportunities. There is no limit on earnings, allowing students to work more hours if desired. However, off-campus jobs may be less accommodating of a student's academic commitments and may require a longer commute.
Visa Considerations
For students on certain visas, such as the F-1 Visa, there are specific regulations regarding off-campus employment. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment but are restricted from working off-campus during their first academic year. After the first year, F-1 students may engage in certain types of off-campus employment, provided it is related to their area of study and authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS.
Ultimately, the decision between on-campus and off-campus employment depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Both options offer unique advantages and can provide valuable experiences that complement a student's academic pursuits.
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STEM Optional Practical Training Extension
Students with an F-1 Visa (Academic Student) are allowed to enter the United States as full-time students at an accredited college, university, or other academic institution. F-1 students may accept on-campus employment in their first year and may engage in three types of off-campus employment after their first academic year. One of these off-campus employment options is the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT).
STEM OPT refers to the 24-month extension of post-completion OPT. Students who majored in an eligible STEM field may qualify for a one-time, 24-month extension of post-completion OPT. To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be in a period of Active Post-Completion OPT
- Have a primary or secondary major in a STEM-eligible field or have completed a previous primary or secondary major in a currently STEM-eligible field
- Not have already had a STEM OPT extension of any duration based on the qualifying STEM degree
- Have a qualifying STEM degree at the bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level from a school accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency and certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
Students must submit a completed Form I-983 Training Plan for STEM OPT Students to the Designated School Official (DSO) before the DSO can recommend the STEM OPT extension. Employers must have sufficient resources and trained or supervisory personnel available to provide appropriate training in connection with the specified training opportunity. If a student's OPT period expires while their STEM OPT extension application is pending, their employment authorization will be automatically extended for 180 days.
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Frequently asked questions
International students in the US on an F-1 visa are not allowed to work off-campus during their first academic year. After the first year, they may engage in three types of off-campus employment, provided it is related to their area of study and is authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS.
Students at Cambridge University are generally not expected to work during term time. However, the university recognizes that some students may wish to combine their studies with paid or voluntary work. Students are advised to discuss their plans with their supervisor and college tutor to assess any potential impact on their academic progress.
Students on a Student/Tier 4 visa must obtain a formal worker's agreement or employment contract before undertaking any work. They should also be aware of any visa and tax implications regarding their employment status.
