Is Working as an International Student in the USA Legal?

Learn the regulations for international student employment in the USA, including on-campus and off-campus options.

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International students in the USA can work under certain conditions. On-campus employment is usually allowed for up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during breaks. Off-campus employment requires authorization, like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). Unauthorized work can jeopardize your immigration status, so always consult your Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Can international students work full-time in the USA? International students can work full-time during school breaks, but during sessions they are limited to part-time on-campus jobs.
  2. What is CPT and how does it work? Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students to work off-campus in a job related to their major, but they need prior authorization.
  3. What happens if an international student works unauthorized? Working without proper authorization can lead to severe consequences, including jeopardizing the student's immigration status.