International Student Work Authorization
The Office of International Student Services (OIS) at FTC Northern is responsible for providing guidance on employment opportunities and work authorization for students in F-1 status. International students may be eligible to work in the United States, provided they comply with federal immigration regulations and obtain the required authorization before beginning employment. Whether you are seeking an on-campus job or practical training related to your field of study, OIS is here to help you understand the eligibility requirements, navigate the application process, and maintain your F-1 status throughout your academic journey.
F-1 students must receive approval from the Office of International Student Services (OIS) before beginning any on-campus employment or volunteer position.
Working without the required authorization may violate federal immigration regulations and could affect your F-1 status.
The Office of International Services is the first place to ask for advice about work authorization. There is also great information for F1 students of the DHS government website: Study in the States. https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students
F1 students can find official answers to most F1 related questions on the DHS government website: Study in the States. https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students
On-Campus Employment Registration
All F-1 students who are employed on campus, including those serving in volunteer positions, are required to complete the On-Campus Employment Registration Form before beginning work. The Office of International Student Services (OIS) is required to maintain accurate employment records, including each student’s position, weekly work hours, and employment start and end dates, to ensure compliance with federal immigration regulations.
OPT and CPT
CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training, and is an internship directly connected to the curriculum in your major. It can only be done during your course of study. OPT stands for Optional Practical Training, and is an internship or job related to your field of study, and done optionally during your course of study or in the year or two after graduation. The US government allows F1 students work training opportunities in this form, but the regulations are complex. You’ll need further guidance and approval from the Office of International Services for the application process.
To apply for OPT or CPT, please log in to the F-1 Portal and complete the application form: F-1 Portal Link
STEM OPT
Fields that are in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are qualified for STEM OPT extension. It allows eligible F-1 students to extend their post-completion OPT by an additional 24 months after your general OPT. The employment must be directly related to the student’s STEM degree.
| For ANY work authorization type, students MUST receive approval prior to starting any sort of work, and there are strict requirements for each type of employment.If you work in the US without the proper authorization, that is a violation of your F-1 status. Your I-20 will be terminated, and you will have to leave the US within 15 days.Check out our Student Work Authorization link for more information |
Who is eligible for STEM OPT?
To qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, you must:
- Hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a field listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
- Be currently participating in post-completion OPT based on that STEM degree.
- Have a paid job or job offer from an employer enrolled in E-Verify.
- Work in a position that is directly related to your STEM degree.
- Obtain a recommendation from your Designated School Official (DSO) before applying.
- Submit Form I-765 to USCIS for the STEM OPT extension.
- Complete and submit Form I-983 (Training Plan) with your employer, outlining your learning objectives and training plan.
How many hours am I allowed to work each week?
F1 students have a restriction on the amount of hours they can work per week during the semester.
- Maximum 20 hours a week during semester
- No maximum hours during breaks, including Winter Break, Spring Break, & Summer Break.
Do I need authorization before starting a job?
YES
What types of jobs are available for international students?
You can work on campus for the college. You may also apply for internships related to your field of study, called CPT and OPT. These jobs all need approval from the Office of International Services.
Do I need to apply for CPT or OPT for an on-campus job?
No. CPT and OPT are not required for on-campus employment. However, you must register your on-campus employment with the Office of International Student Services (OIS) before you begin working.
However, there are only a restricted number of on-campus jobs international students can apply to.
Can I work off campus during my first academic year?
No, you cannot work off campus during your first academic year. CPT and OPT are not allowed during the first academic year.
How do I apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)?
It’s best to contact the Office of International Services for support getting a SSN. You can visit the local SSN office, but you need to take all the required documents with you. OIS will help with instructions.
Check out for more information in this official website: Request a Social Security number | SSA
Will working affect my F-1 student status?
Yes, it can. If you work illegally, you would lose your F1 status and will have to leave the US. If you work legally, such as registered on-campus work, or CPT for example, and if you follow the rules, it won’t negatively affect your F1 status. However, be careful, if you cannot keep up with your course work and grades fall below passing standards, you can lose your F1 status that way. So keep your work and study life balanced. Contact OIS or an advisor if you need help.
Who should I contact if I have questions about employment authorization?
Please contact the Office of International Student Services (OIS) by emailing OIS@mt.feitian.edu or call +1 (845) 231-1049 for guidance on employment eligibility, work authorization, CPT, OPT, and other F-1 employment questions.
