Employment Resources and Related Issues
As an F-1 or J-1 student, you have the opportunity to engage in on-campus work or practical training opportunities off-campus. However, you must obtain the appropriate work authorization before starting to work. If you work even one day before or after your authorization, you must leave the U.S. or face deportation.
Student Work Opportunities:
On-Campus: On-campus work is limited to part-time (20 hours or less per week) during the fall and spring semesters. It may be full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during the summer and official school breaks. Search for on-campus jobs
F-1 students: On-campus work does not require special authorization, but you must maintain your full-time student status or your work on-campus will become illegal.
J-1 students: On-campus work does require prior authorization from an OISS advisor. Please call to set up an appointment.
Off-Campus: The handouts below describe eligibility requirements and application procedures for each type of work authorization. Please visit OISS to pick up a complete application packet.
F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT)
F-1 STEM OPT 17-month Extension (STEM OPT)
J-1 Academic Training
J-2 Work Authorization
Spring 2013 CPT/OPT Workshops:
Monday, January 28, 3:30-4:30pm (OISS 3rd Floor)
Tuesday, January 29, 12:00-1:00pm (OISS, 3rd Floor)
Friday, February 1, 11:45am-12:45pm (Architecture @ Anderson 117)
Tuesday, February 5, 9:00-10:00pm (OISS, 3rd Floor)
Wednesday, February 6, 8:00-9:00pm (RGA)
Thursday, February 7, 8:00-9:00pm (RVA)
Reporting Requirements and Documentation:
F-1 OPT Status Updates - While on F-1 OPT, students are required to inform OISS of any changes of address, employer, unemployment, departure, and status.
Social Security Number (SSN) Application Process for Students
SSN Employer Verification Letter
Graduate SSN Employer Verification Letter
Additional Resources:
Employer Responsibilities When Hiring Foreign Workers
Taxes
Emergency Funding