International students in F-1 or J-1 visa status must make certain they are eligible for employment and internships during their time in the United States. Eligibility requirements vary according to the type of employment you seek.
If you are seeking off-campus employment, the process for work authorization will vary according to your visa status.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT) work authorization. CPT allows F-1 students to gain practical experience in work that is directly related to your major field of study while you are a student.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization. OPT allows F-1 students to gain work experience related to your major while you are a student or after graduation.
- Employment with an International Organization. Allows full-time F-1 students to work for a qualified international organization.
- Economic Hardship
- Academic Training (AT) work authorization:
- Paid or unpaid, authorized employment for J-1 students.
- May be taken prior to or following the completion of a student’s course of study.
- Includes internships, practica, or post-graduation employment.
