General
There are many types of work authorization for F and J international students, though the most common types are CPT, OPT and Academic Training. If an international student is considering applying for work authorization, they should start with ISS. They can read through our F Employment or J Employment webpages or meet with an advisor.
F and J international students are usually able to work through benefits of their immigration status. This means that an employer should not need to sponsor these students to work. Usually the most an employer needs to do is to provide a job offer letter or training plan. If you are unsure of how to hire an international student, reach out to ISS by email.
Students who have a pending application such as OPT or STEM OPT with USCIS can check processing times directly with USCIS on their website.
On-campus Employer
F-1 international students are allowed to work as early as 30 days prior to the start date listed on their I-20 immigration document. However, J-1 students must wait until the start of their program to begin working on campus. Remember: F and J international students are restricted to 20 hours a week during a normal academic quarter. Anything beyond this requires authorization from ISS.
F and J international students must stop working on campus by the last day of their final quarter of enrollment. If an academic appointment administratively ends after this date, it may be fine as long as no work is actually done during that extended period. Payment after an international students last day of work authorization is usually fine.
If a student is on approved OPT (not STEM OPT), they are able to work in volunteer positions including on-campus positions. While not required, the employing unit can provide the international student with an “offer” letter outlining their volunteer details and duties. (See example)
F and J international students do not require work authorization from the ISS to be employed while outside of the U.S. but there are other issues to consider. Hiring departments should consult HR and review International remote work for staff and student employees to determine what documents would be required to hire an international student who is not physically present in the U.S.
Off-campus Employer
Hiring an F or J international student should be easy! It does not mean that you are sponsoring them for a visa. Most F and J international students are eligible for work authorization through their student visa. Usually your responsibility is limited to providing a job offer or training plan.
F and J international students who are authorized to work will be issued either an updated I-20/DS-2019 with authorization details or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.