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Part-Time Jobs, OPT & Work Rights

Part-Time Work Rights & Student Jobs in the USA

Understand your legal rights, work-hour limits, job options, income potential, and tips for finding part-time jobs as an international student on an F1 visa in the United States.

Can International Students Work in the USA on an F1 Visa?

Yes, students on an F1 visa are allowed to work under certain conditions:

  • On-campus: Allowed during the first year of study
  • Off-campus: Permitted from the second year under CPT or OPT programs
  • Limit: Max 20 hours/week during the semester, 40 hours/week during breaks
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On-Campus Job Opportunities

Job RoleHourly Pay (USD)
Library Assistant$10 – $15
Cafeteria Staff$9 – $14
Computer Lab Monitor$11 – $16
Teaching/Research Assistant$15 – $25
Admissions/Front Desk Staff$10 – $18

βœ… These jobs are easily available during the first year

βœ… No special permission required β€” just a Social Security Number (SSN)

Off-Campus Work Options (After 1st Year)

ProgramDescription
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)Internship or training related to your course
OPT (Optional Practical Training)Up to 12 months of work after graduation
STEM OPT Extension24-month extension for STEM graduates

βœ… Must be authorized by the Designated School Official (DSO)

βœ… Work must directly relate to your degree

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When & How Long Can You Work?

PeriodAllowed Hours
During SemesterUp to 20 hours/week
During BreaksUp to 40 hours/week
During OPTFull-time permitted

βœ… Working more than allowed can lead to visa cancellation β€” follow regulations strictly

Average Income from Part-Time Jobs

  • Hourly Wage: $10 – $20
  • Monthly Earnings: $500 – $1,000 (for 20 hours/week)
  • Annual Estimate: $6,000 – $12,000 (may help cover living costs)

βœ… Wages vary by location (California, New York pay more)

βœ… No need to pay tax if income is below a set threshold

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Where to Find Part-Time Jobs?

  • University Career Center or Portal
  • Handshake – Student job network
  • LinkedIn & Indeed.com – Search for internships
  • Department noticeboards & student networks

βœ… Most universities have dedicated job boards and employment support services

Internships, Co-ops & Freelancing

  • Internships (via CPT) – Related to your field of study
  • Co-op Programs – Extended paid work integrated with academics
  • Freelancing/Online Gigs – Restricted unless through authorized channels (on-campus)

❌ Avoid unauthorized gig work on platforms like Fiverr, Uber, or DoorDash as it's illegal under F1 visa

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Documents Required to Start Working

DocumentPurpose
I-20 FormVisa & CPT/OPT authorization
SSN (Social Security Number)Required for all legal work
Passport & Visa CopyIdentity verification
Job Offer LetterMandatory for tax filing

βœ… Apply for SSN through your DSO once you secure a job

How Part-Time Work Affects Your Budget

βœ… Helps manage daily living expenses

βœ… Not sufficient to pay tuition fees

βœ… Shows financial independence during visa renewals and interviews

πŸ’‘ Use part-time income for:

  • Rent & groceries
  • Mobile & transportation
  • Books and supplies
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My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visasβ€”such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visasβ€”such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.

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