One of the most common questions international students have when applying to study in the United States is whether they can work on a student visa. The answer is yes, but there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be followed.
First and foremost, students who hold an F-1 student visa are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks. This work must be related to the student’s field of study and can include jobs such as working in a research lab, library, or administrative office.
Off-campus employment is also available to F-1 students, but only under certain circumstances. Students can apply for off-campus work authorization under two programs: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
CPT is available to students who need to complete an internship or cooperative education program as part of their degree requirements. This work must be directly related to the student’s field of study and must be approved by the student’s school and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
OPT is available to students who have completed their degree program and want to work in the U.S. for up to one year (or up to three years for students in STEM fields) in a job related to their field of study. Students must apply for and receive approval for OPT before they can begin working.
It’s important to note that there are strict requirements and deadlines for both CPT and OPT, and students should work closely with their school’s international student office to ensure they are following all the necessary steps and requirements.
Another option for F-1 students is to work for a university-affiliated company or organization through the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension Program. This program allows students in STEM fields to work for up to 24 months after graduation in a job related to their field of study.
Finally, F-1 students may also be eligible to work off-campus in certain circumstances due to unforeseen economic hardship. This requires a separate application process and must be approved by the USCIS.
In conclusion, F-1 students are eligible to work on and off campus while studying in the U.S., but there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be followed. Students should work closely with their school’s international student office and the USCIS to ensure they are following all necessary steps and requirements for on-campus and off-campus employment.
