Many college students in the United States maintain a job while studying, however options can be limited to F-1 students. If you are an F-1 student and are interested in working while studying in the United States you should talk to your designated school official (DSO). The United States takes working illegally very seriously, so if your DSO finds out about illegal activity they must report it through SEVIS and your record will be terminated. This is why it is very important to become employed the right way! The two factors that determine your eligibility to work in the United States are your status, and your program of study through the following options:
On campus. F-1 students who have an active SEVIS status can apply for jobs on their university or college campus that are affiliated with the school. Perhaps this means working in a cafe on campus, the bookstore, or as a research assistant. If you wish to have an on campus job, active F-1 students may apply up to 30 days before the start of classes. In order to move forward with this process, the student must speak with their DSO officer, who must approve the process with a letter. To work in the United States, you need a Social Security Number. Take your letter of approval from your DSO, as well as one from your new employer, to apply for your Social Security Number. If you secure an on campus job, you may not work over 20 hours a week while classes are in session. Learn more here. If you are interested in working off-campus you can find more information here.
OPT. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment for F-1 students. OPT employs student in an area related to their field of study. Through this program, an F-1 student can work for 12 months, either pre-completion or post-completion of their studies in the United States. However, if you study certain science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) fields, you may apply to extend your OPT for 24 months which you can learn more about here. To apply for a pre-completion OPT you must have lawfully enrolled and completed a full year at a U.S university, seminary or conservatory that has been certified by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). More information can be found here.
CPT. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is employment that integrates into curriculum, and does not delay the completion of the academic program in which the F-1 student is enrolled. Students must maintain full-time enrollment during their CPT, as it is to be completed prior to completion of study. There are two types of CPT: required and non-required. Required CPT applies to F-1 students who are mandated to complete work experience in order to obtain their degree. Non-required must still relate to your field of study. Learn more here.