Working While Studying in the USA
One of the most common questions from international students is whether they can work while studying in the US. The answer is yes — but with important restrictions. Understanding these rules is critical because working without authorization is a serious visa violation.
On-Campus Employment
F-1 students are permitted to work on campus at their university for up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester, and full-time during official school breaks and vacations. On-campus jobs include positions at the university library, dining halls, research labs, and administrative offices.
No special authorization is required for on-campus employment beyond your valid F-1 status and I-20. You will need a Social Security Number (SSN) to be paid — your university's international student office can help you obtain one once you have a job offer.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT is a work authorization that allows you to work off-campus in a position directly related to your major field of study and that is an integral part of your curriculum — for example, a required internship. CPT must be authorized by your DSO before you begin working.
Important: If you use 12 or more months of full-time CPT, you become ineligible for OPT — so use CPT strategically.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is the most commonly used work authorization for F-1 graduates. It allows 12 months of work in your field of study, with a potential 24-month STEM extension for graduates in qualifying STEM fields. See our dedicated OPT & STEM OPT page for full details.
What Students Cannot Do
- You cannot work off-campus without authorization
- You cannot work for a business owned by a family member without proper CPT/OPT authorization
- You cannot be self-employed without specific authorization
Violating employment restrictions can result in loss of your F-1 status and potentially a bar on re-entering the United States. Always consult your DSO before accepting any employment.