Employment– Get the facts

























First time freshmen and transfer students are not allowed to work off campus within the first academic year. Graduate students whose program requires practical training/ internship within the first year will be considered.

Under no circumstances must a student in F-1 status engage in off-campus employment without authorization. Please consult with the International Student Advisor.

Economic Hardship - If at any time after your first year, you find yourself in a dire financial hardship, you may qualify to apply to the Unites States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for authorization based on “economic hardship.” Examples of possible ‘acceptable’ causes of economic hardship are severe (documented) devaluation of home currency relative to the U.S. dollar, loss of scholarship, and death of a sponsor.

Please note that employment based on economic hardship should not be seen as a measure to pay tuition and fees. If your situation is so untenable that you are unable to pay tuition and fees, the Service may recommend that you return home. See the International Student Advisor for additional information.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) - Students may be permitted to engage in off campus employment pursuant to fulfilling required internship and practical experience for a given academic course. If not required, students may (if allowed by your department) engage in CPT for credit(s). Please consult with International Student Advisor for further details and filing procedures.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) – USCIS will consider students in F-1 status for engagement in OPT for up to 12 months. The purpose of OPT is to provide students with the opportunity to gain practical experience related to your academic program.

Whereas OPT can be obtained any time after your first year, most students file for post-completion OPT.

You must submit an application for post-completion OPT prior to the end of your program of study but no more than 120 days before the start date of said OPT. You should consult with the International student Advisor for further details and filing procedures.

 

For more information please contact Mr. Richard Kitson-Walters, , 443.885.3078.