Overview
F-1 students have limited but valuable opportunities to work in the United States. Understanding the rules is critical, because unauthorized employment can seriously jeopardize a student’s status and future immigration options.
Types of employment
These generally include on-campus employment, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) tied to the curriculum, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for work in the student’s field of study — with a possible STEM OPT extension for eligible degrees. In limited circumstances, students may also qualify for off-campus work based on severe economic hardship. Each option has specific authorization requirements and timing rules.
How Do Law can help
We help students understand which work options they qualify for, apply for the appropriate authorization correctly and on time, and plan a transition from OPT toward longer-term work visas such as the H-1B or other categories.