Working Off-Campus While Attending School
F-1 Students
Off-campus employment is limited to students in colleges and universities who are pursuing academic studies. This excludes English language students. Working off-campus requires special authorization and is only available in certain situations. Consult your international student adviser for advice.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Hardship
- Special Student Relief
J-1 Students
Exchange visitor students who are in good academic standing may obtain authorization for work off-campus as part of an academic training experience or when unforeseen economic circumstances arise after the student becomes an exchange visitor. Employment as a result of unforeseen economic circumstances is limited to 20 hours per week while classes are in session but can be full-time during vacation periods and breaks. See your responsible officer for procedures.
J-2 dependents
J-2 dependants are eligible for employment and are required to:
- Apply and be approved for full-time or part-time work authorization through USCIS. Forms may be picked up at the International Center or downloaded here
- Not work for the purpose of supporting the J-1
- Reapply, in a timely manner, for renewal of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) each year
- Cease working if the J-1 violates status, changes from J-1 to another non-immigrant class, or leaves the J program altogether