Working in the US While Studying

Starting your studies in the United States as an international student is an exciting journey with many opportunities for personal and academic growth. A crucial part of this process is understanding the US universities application and the work opportunities available during your studies. This guide will help you understand job opportunities, work permits, and how to balance work and studies effectively.

Work Permits While Studying in the US

Understanding and obtaining the appropriate work permits is crucial for international students who wish to work while studying in the US. Here is a detailed overview of the types of work permits available and the procedures to obtain them:

On-Campus Employment at US Universities

Eligibility:

• Available to F-1 students during their first academic year and beyond.
• No additional work permit is required for on-campus jobs; however, you must secure the job through the university, and it requires university approval.

Work Hours:

• Up to 20 hours per week during school sessions.
• Full-time during holidays and vacation periods.

Types of Jobs:

• Positions in university facilities like libraries, dining halls, or academic departments.

Off-Campus Employment at US Universities

For off-campus employment, international students must obtain authorization. The main types of off-campus work permits are Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Eligibility:

• F-1 students must have completed one full academic year.
• The job must be directly related to the student’s major and part of the academic program.

Work Hours:

• Part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during school sessions.
• Full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during school breaks and vacations.

Procedure:

1. Approval from Designated School Official (DSO):
   • Students must get approval from their DSO who will update the SEVIS record and issue a new I-20 form.
2. Employer Agreements:
   • The job must be part of a cooperative agreement between the university and the employer.

Key Points:

• Full-time CPT for more than 12 months eliminates eligibility for OPT at the same educational level.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Eligibility:

• Available to F-1 students who have completed one full academic year.
• Can be used during or after the completion of the academic program.

Types of OPT:

• Pre-completion OPT:
  • Part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while school is in session.
  • Full-time during breaks and annual vacations.
• Post-completion OPT:
  • Full-time after graduation.

Procedure:

1. DSO Recommendation:
   • The DSO must recommend OPT and update the SEVIS record.
2. Application to USCIS:
   • Students must file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) along with the DSO’s recommendation.
   • USCIS will issue an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if the application is approved.

STEM OPT Extension:

• Students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields can apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT, allowing them to work in their field for up to 36 months in total.

Severe Economic Hardship

Eligibility:

• F-1 students who have completed one full academic year and are facing unforeseen severe economic hardship.
• Must demonstrate that the need for employment is due to circumstances beyond their control.

Procedure:

1. DSO Recommendation:
   • The DSO must recommend employment based on severe economic hardship and update the SEVIS record.
2. Application to USCIS:
   • Students must file Form I-765 and provide evidence of economic hardship.
   • USCIS will issue an EAD if the application is approved.

Work Hours:

• Up to 20 hours per week during school sessions.
• Full-time during breaks and vacations​.

Balancing Work and Studies

Working part-time can help with your living expenses and provide valuable experience, but it's important to balance work with your studies. Here are some tips:

• Prioritize Your Studies: Make sure your job does not affect your academic performance.
• Time Management: Plan your study and work hours carefully. Use weekends to catch up on personal chores and focus on studies during the week​.

Understanding US Work Culture

Adapting to the work culture in the US is important. This includes understanding workplace etiquette, communication styles, and professional expectations. Building professional relationships and networking can also help in your career development.

Legal Considerations

Understanding the legal aspects of working in the US is crucial:

• Taxes: As an international student, you need to pay taxes on your income. Apply for a Social Security number if you receive any financial compensation.
• Work Authorization: Only work in jobs that you are legally authorized to do. Unauthorized work can result in losing your student visa and being banned from re-entry to the US​.

Working while studying in the US can provide financial support and valuable work experience. By understanding job opportunities, work permit procedures, and balancing work with studies, you can make the most of your time in the US. Always stay informed about the regulations and cultural nuances to ensure a successful and rewarding experience. Best of luck on your academic and professional journey in the United States!