Understanding Your Visa Type and Work Eligibility
Most international students in the U.S. hold either an F-1 or J-1 visa. Each has specific guidelines on when and how you can work.
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F-1 Visa: For most academic degree programs. Work is allowed under certain conditions.
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J-1 Visa: For students in exchange or sponsored programs. Work may be permitted but is often tied to the program itself.
The first thing you should do before looking for any job is talk to your school’s International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office. They can explain what’s allowed, help you apply for work authorization, and make sure you stay in legal status. Never start a job—paid or unpaid—without checking with them first!
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On-Campus Job Opportunities for International Students
The easiest way to start working as an international student is through an on-campus job. You’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester, and full-time during official school breaks.
Here are some common on-campus jobs:
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Library assistant
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Dining services
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Front desk receptionist in residence halls
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Lab assistant or tutor
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Student ambassador or event support
These jobs can help you build your resume, improve your English, and make new friends. Plus, you don’t need special work authorization beyond your visa and school approval.
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Off-Campus Work: CPT, OPT, and Academic Training
If you want to work off-campus, you’ll need prior authorization. These are the most common programs:
🛠 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
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For F-1 students
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Must be related to your major and part of your curriculum
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Often used for internships or cooperative education programs
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Requires approval from your Designated School Official (DSO) and usually from your academic department
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Can be part-time or full-time, depending on the semester
🎓 Optional Practical Training (OPT)
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For F-1 students
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You can apply to work in your field of study for up to 12 months after graduation (pre-completion OPT is also possible during your studies)
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Students in STEM fields can apply for a 24-month extension, making it a total of 36 months
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Apply several months before graduation, as processing takes time
🧑🏫 Academic Training (AT)
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For J-1 students
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Similar to OPT, but tied to your program sponsor’s rules
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Must relate to your major and be approved by your exchange program advisor
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Can be used during or after your academic program
Pro tip: Plan ahead! Application deadlines for CPT and OPT can sneak up fast. Ask your ISSS advisor for a timeline early.
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How to Find Jobs and Build Experience
Once you’re eligible to work, the next step is finding the right opportunity. Here’s how:
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Use your university’s career center and platforms like Handshake
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Search job boards that focus on students or visa-sponsored positions, like MyVisaJobs.com
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Attend career fairs, networking events, and info sessions on campus
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Get involved in student organizations related to your major—many offer access to internships and professional mentors
Even if you can’t work off-campus yet, volunteering, internships (with CPT), or research assistantships can be great ways to gain experience.
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Important Things to Know About Working in the U.S.
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You’ll need a Social Security Number (SSN) to work. Your ISSS office can help you apply once you have a job offer.
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You are legally required to file tax forms every year—even if you didn’t earn income.
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Stay informed about your visa status. Working without proper authorization can jeopardize your ability to stay in the U.S.
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Keep copies of your job offers, pay stubs, and work authorization documents. You may need them for future applications.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Work & Visa Challenges
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when first learning about work opportunities and visa regulations. It’s a lot to take in. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Use your school’s ISSS office, talk to advisors, and ask questions. With the right support, international students can gain valuable job experience, support themselves financially, and prepare for exciting career paths after graduation.
Take it one step at a time. Stay curious. Stay proactive. And always know your rights.
👉 Check out my guide on Budgeting & Finance Tips for International Students for more strategies on saving money in the U.S.!