Employment
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The purpose of an F-1 visa is to admit a person to the US as a student. Because it is not a work visa, employment opportunities while you are in F-1 status are quite limited. During your first academic year you can only work on campus. However, you must have the authorization of the International Student Advisor to do so. Later there are other possibilities for employment which are listed below.
If you would like to work on campus, see the career center for more details.
Curricular Practical Training
After you have been in the US in F-1 status for one academic year you are eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT). CPT usually takes the form of an internship in your major field of study where you are earning credits for your experience and may earn money as well. Make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor if you are interested in applying for CPT.
Optional Practical Training
After you have been in the US in F-1 status for one academic year you are also eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is paid work off-campus in your field of study. You may work 20 hours per week while classes are in session and 40 hours per week during vacation periods. However, most students decide to save their OPT until they have completed their studies and graduate. You are eligible to apply to Immigration for up to 12 months of full-time OPT. You should apply four months before you would like your OPT to begin. The application fee is $340. Make an appointment to talk with the International Student Advisor if you are interested in applying for OPT. You must apply for OPT before you graduate.
There has been a large Increase in Application Fees effective July 30, 2007. Please see this memo from Adam Green, Immigration Attorney, which summarizes the increases: nafsamemo from Adam Green
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