Other Student Employment Options

There are a few lesser-known and lesser-used employment types that might pertain to international students in certain situations. These are different from on-campus employment, optional practical training (OPT), curricular practical training (CPT), or academic training (for J-1s).

Unforeseen Financial Need (F-1 and J-1)

If a student encounters drastic, unforeseen economic need that will prevent the student from continuing and completing the academic program, OIS may be able to recommend or authorize a special economic need-based employment authorization for off-campus employment that is not restricted to the student’s field of study. This is reserved for drastic cases where on-campus employment is not available or sufficient. It also usually involves circumstances such as the death or financial ruin of a financial supporter, withdrawal of support from a government agency, or other unavoidable third party circumstances. Additional eligibility requirements exist and F-1 and J-1 students interested in this type of employment authorization must make an appointment with an OIS advisor.

F-1 Employment with a Government or International Organization

F-1 students who have been in status for at least nine months and are offered an internship with certain government or international organizations may be eligible to apply for a certain type of Employment Authorization Document. The application process is similar to the OPT process, but it requires an offer letter from a qualifying organization. It does NOT, however, get deducted from a student’s 12 month period of OPT.   F-1 students interested in this type of employment authorization must make an appointment with an OIS advisor.

For eligible F-1 graduate students, there is the option of engaging in an Off-Campus Research Assistantship, which is subject to the recommendation and approval of the Advisor and Director of Graduate Programs.