Employment for F-1 Students
There are limited employment opportunities for you while you are an F-1 student. Work you perform must fall under one of these categories. Each category has a unique authorization process which must be done with an International Student Advisor.
Eligibility
A basic eligibility requirement for all types of employment is that you must be in lawful F-1 status. Maintaining eligibility for most types of F-1 employment means that you must limit your work to no more than 20 hours per week while school is in session. Do not assume that you are eligible to work without first contacting International Student Services in Belknap Hall.
Definition of "Employment"
"Employment" is any type of work performed or services provided in exchange for money, tuition, fees, books, supplies, room, food or any other benefit. If you receive no pay or other benefit for work performed, this activity is not defined as "employment" but is considered to be "volunteer work." For example, being a Resident Assistant, Graduate Assistant, or having a paid or unpaid internship are all types of employment.
Employment Eligibility Verification
When you begin work, you and your employer must complete a form entitled "Employment Eligibility Verification" (CIS Form I-9), which the employer will keep. The I-9 form must be updated each time you receive a renewal of your work permission.