F-1 Employment Options (On Campus, CPT, OPT)

Students on F-1 visas must understand the rules of their visa status before engaging in employment or work opportunities in the U.S.

Employment is defined as “work performed in exchange for compensation.” Compensation can include money, room and board, or other significant benefits. Most employment opportunities require authorization. Working without authorization has serious consequences and can impact your ability to study, travel, or work in the U.S. throughout your life.

Please review the pages listed below to determine what is needed for your particular employment interest.
F-1 status allows the following categories of employment:

• On-campus Employment
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• STEM OPT Extension
• Severe Economic Hardship
• International Organizations
• Special Student Relief 

Other employment related topics for students in F-1 status:

• How to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN)
• Letter to Employer
• Beyond OPT to H-1B status
• H-1B Cap Gap Extension