Employment

Definitions

Employment is generally viewed as services performed for wages or other remuneration, although there is no regulatory definition of employment. If you are offered an opportunity, whether or not it is paid or unpaid, make sure to check with your International Services Representative to determine whether or not it constitutes employment. Simply because an opportunity is unpaid does not necessarily mean that you do not need work authorization. Working without authorization is a serious offense with the potential for significant impact on your immigration status.

F-1 status allows for the following 5 categories of employment:

• On-Campus Employment
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• Severe Economic Hardship
• International Organizations

Severe Economic Hardship

In order to qualify for work authorization due to severe economic hardship, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• You must have been in F-1 status for one academic year.
• You must be in good academic standing.
• You must document that on-campus employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient to meet your financial needs.
• You must demonstrate that acceptance of employment will not interfere with your full course of study.

In addition, you must demonstrate that employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control.  Examples of unforeseen economic hardship include:

• Loss of financial support or on-campus employment
• Substantial fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rate
• Inordinate increases in tuition and/or living costs
• Unexpected changes in the financial condition of your source of support, such a loss of a family business or substantial medical bills.

The employment authorization is granted by USCIS in increments of one year at a time.
The authorization allows you to work for any employer up to 20 hours per week during the semester, or more than 20 hours per week during official term breaks. Employment authorization is automatically terminated if you graduate, fail to maintain status, or transfer to another institution. Please contact your International Services Representative if you have any questions about severe economic hardship.

International Organizations

As an F-1 student, you may work for a qualified international organization, as defined by the International Organization Immunities Act of December 29, 1945. If you have an offer from an employer on the List of International Organizations you may apply to USCIS for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Contact your International Services Representative about your situation to determine your eligibility.