Students should NOT depend on the possibility of working on or off campus to finance their education in the U.S
Upon arrival, students in lawful F-1 status are permitted to work on campus for no more than 20 hours per week.
The availability of campus jobs is not guaranteed; however, many international students do find on-campus jobs.
F-1 students are NOT permitted to work off campus and doing so is unlawful and violates their status.*
*F-1 students may be eligible to work off campus after one academic year as part of the practical training component of the F-1 status. In order to apply for Practical Training, international students must attend one of the informational workshops conducted by CISP.
Job Search and Application Tips
Apply only for a position that meets your skills and capabilities. Example, if an accounting position is needed, an engineering or computer information systems student need not apply if they do not have the required skill. You will have a higher rate of success in landing a job if you fit the employers description of what they are seeking in an employee
Most hours available for work have been set by the employer. Analyze if they fit into your schedule before applying for the position as most employers will not compromise their timetables to meet your schedule.
Most positions will traiining so that you can better perform duties and know the expectations. Employers may be more likely to hire students who are willing to keep the position for the duration of their studies so that they may not waste time and resources training. Please apply for jobs that you really want and for which you will be available over the long run.
Only commit to being available to work during the semester breaks if you are sure that you will be available.
Do not approach an employer as a group of students. Individuality and independence are what employers are looking for so maximize on this and apply for a position on your own.
Hiring does not always follow the practice of "first come first served." Understand that the best qualified person for a job may or may not be the first person that applies.
Knowing that "image is everything," be smartly dressed when going job hunting. Your image will leave as strong of an impression as your resume and cover letter do.
After you have applied and submitted your resume to the employer, refrain from making repeated return visits to confirm your application; wait to be contacted by the employer.
