Employment Options for F-1 Students

As an F-1 student, you may be eligible for certain types of employment while studying in the United States. Before you begin working, make sure that you have the proper authorization, as working without authorization can have serious consequences. If you have questions about accepting a job, contact the International Student Services Office.

On Campus Employment

F-1 students may apply for on-campus employment if they are enrolled full time at HFC and are maintaining their F-1 status. Students may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. During official school breaks, students may work full time. On-campus employment means that the work is performed on the HFC campus.

If you are interested in applying for an on-campus job, you may contact the Career Services Office.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is temporary off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students whose training is an integral part of their academic program and directly related to their field of study. All CPT requests must be reviewed and authorized by a Designated School Official (DSO) before the student begins employment.

CPT eligibility requirements:

  • Be in valid F-1 status and enrolled in a degree program (ELI students are not eligible)
  • Have completed one year (2 semesters) of full-time academic study in the U.S.
  • Receive credit for CPT through an internship or co-op course that is required for program completion
  • Have a job offer at the time of the application with the ISS Office

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization for training directly related to a student’s program of study. Students may apply for OPT before completing their program (pre-completion) and/or after completing their program (post-completion).

The DSO must first process an OPT recommendation before the student submits the application and required fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for review. Students may receive a total of 12 months of OPT authorization. Any time used for pre-completion OPT is deducted from the 12 months available for post-completion OPT.

Pre-Completion OPT eligibility requirements

  • Be in valid F-1 status and enrolled in a degree program (ELI students are not eligible)
  • Have completed one year (2 semesters) of full-time academic study in the U.S.
  • Have not engaged in more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the current degree level

Post-Completion OPT eligibility requirements

  • Be in valid F-1 status and enrolled in a degree program (ELI students are not eligible)
  • Have completed one year (2 semesters) of full-time academic study in the U.S.
  • Be in the final semester of your degree program or have completed all the program requirements
  • Have not been authorized for more than 12 months of full-time CPT or received post-completion OPT at your current degree level

Off-Campus Employment

F-1 students may be eligible for off-campus employment that does not have to be directly related to their academic program, under the following special circumstances. Contact your DSO for more information.

  • Severe Economic Hardship
  • Special Student Relief (SSR)
  • Internship with an International Organization

Severe, unforeseen economic necessity

Students may apply for off-campus employment if they experience new, unexpected circumstances beyond their control that have created severe economic hardship.

Special Student Relief

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may provide off-campus employment authorization and other benefits to eligible F-1 students affected by certain emergent circumstances. The specific benefits depend on the applicable Federal Register notice.

Internship with an International Organization

F-1 students may be eligible to participate in an internship with a recognized public international organization, under the International Organization Immunities Act.