Generally, F-1 students are not allowed to work. In order to work on campus, the student must be degree seeking and would be eligible for no more than 20 hours per week when school is in session. Before you can be hired for a position, you must have a Social Security number. You must have a letter signed by the prospective SPC supervisor and the international office staff (form available in the International Offices on campus). To apply for a Social Security card, go to the Social Security Administration Web site and print the application. Fill it out and return it to the Social Security office as directed on the Web site. You will need to take your Passport, I-20 and I-94.
Employment authorization is a complicated procedure that requires a recommendation from your international student officer/advisor.
Please remember, working is a privilege — not a right.
On-campus employment
You may be permitted to work part-time on campus with your international student officer’s/advisor’s approval if you are in degree seeking status. Employment authorization ends if you fail to maintain F-1 status.
Off-campus employment
In certain situations, you may be eligible to work part-time off campus based on unexpected, severe economic necessity. However, you must receive permission from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must be on F1 status for at least one academic year prior to working off campus. Contact your international student officer/advisor for instructions and forms. Working without permission is a violation of your status and is punishable by deportation.
Practical training employment
Practical training is work directly related to your major field of study. You may be eligible, depending on your major, for three types of practical training.
- Curricular practical training (as part of your course work requirement), which is approved on a term basis and is limited to 20 hours per week
- Optional practical training, once per academic level for one year, 20 hours per week
- Post-completion practical training, which is work after graduation. You must apply 90 days before graduation.
Contact your international student officer/advisor for details.
