Employment Overview
The main purpose of the F-1 visa is to allow nonimmigrants to study in the United States. It is not a work visa. On-campus jobs are not a guarantee and may be limited. For this reason, before coming to the United States, F-1 students must prove they have the financial ability (e.g., present bank statements) to pay for tuition and living expenses while studying.
The types of employment allowed under the F-1 visa are limited by specific requirements. Before engaging in any type of work, F-1 students should verify they are eligible to work and have the proper authorization. Working without authorization is a violation of F-1 status with serious consequences and can impact your ability to study, travel, or work in the U.S. throughout your life.
If you pursue employment, you must apply for a Social Security number.
Unauthorized (Illegal) Employment
Strict rules regulate an F-1 student’s place of employment, hours per week, and in some cases, type of employment. Committing an "employment violation" automatically puts you in unlawful F-1 status. Once you are out of status, you will need to file an application for reinstatement to get back into proper F-1 status—or else face possibly accruing unlawful presence in the United States.
For additional information, click here to view more about international students and Unauthorized Employment.
Types of Employment
On-Campus Employment
International students are permitted to work on-campus during their academic program without prior work authorization.
Off-Campus Employment
F-1 and J-1 students may be eligible to work off-campus but must have approval from their immigration advisor before working off campus.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT is off-campus employment while you are enrolled to gain experience in your field of study. Employment must be part of an established curriculum in the student's course of study.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Post-completion OPT is temporary off-campus employment authorization that you apply for during your final semester while enrolled in classes and begin employment after your program end date.
