Employment for International Students

International students, with F-1 visas, must comply with employment rules. Employment is any work performed or services provided (including self-employment) in exchange for money, tuition, room and board, or other benefit or compensation. Remember that unauthorized employment is a serious violation of student status. Also note that employment benefits are available only to F-1 students; F-2 dependents are not permitted to work. Consult with an International Student Advisor in the International Students & Scholars Office, at 459 Schmitz Hall before accepting employment.

There are two types of work authorizations that you are eligible for as an F-1 student: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). Practical training enables you to supplement academic study with employment directly related to your field of study. To be eligible for either CPT or OPT, you must be enrolled at a college or university on a full-time basis for at least one academic year (3 quarters) and are currently in F-1 status (Exception: the one academic year rule is not required for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in CPT).

For further important information on CPT and OPT, please visit the International Students & Scholars Office.