On-Campus Jobs for International Students

What on-campus employment means for F-1 students

F-1 international students are generally permitted to work on-campus without needing a separate employment authorisation document (EAD) from USCIS. On-campus employment means work that takes place at the school's campus and for which the school is the employer — or work performed for an on-campus commercial employer, such as a cafeteria contractor, that provides direct student services.

This is one of the most accessible ways for F-1 students to earn income while studying, because it does not require a separate USCIS application and is not tied to your field of study.

Hour limits and when they apply

The key rule is: F-1 students may not work more than 20 hours per week when school is in session. During official school breaks (such as summer break or winter break), you may generally work full-time — more than 20 hours per week — if you intend to continue your studies in the following semester.

The 20-hour limit applies cumulatively across all on-campus positions. If you hold more than one on-campus job at the same time, your total hours across all of them must stay at or below 20 hours per week during term.

Very important: this guide states the general rule as currently set out on official USCIS sources. Rules can change, and your specific situation may involve additional considerations. Always confirm current requirements with your DSO before starting or changing any employment.

Where to find on-campus positions

Common sources of on-campus employment include university libraries, dining halls, student unions, administrative offices, research labs (as a research assistant), academic departments (as a teaching assistant or tutor), and campus recreation facilities.

Most universities have a campus jobs board, an online student employment portal, or a career services office that lists open positions. Your international student office may also maintain a list of departments that commonly hire international students and can advise on which roles have historically worked well for F-1 students.

• University career services or student employment office — many post on-campus openings exclusively to current students.
• Academic department offices — research assistant and teaching assistant roles.
• Campus facilities (libraries, dining, recreation, IT help desk).
• University official job boards (check your university's student portal).

What you need before you start

Before starting any on-campus job, take these steps:

1. Tell your DSO — inform your international student office that you plan to work on-campus. While on-campus employment does not require USCIS authorisation, your DSO needs to know and may need to note it in SEVIS. 2. Obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) — to receive a paycheck in the U.S. you will need an SSN. If you do not already have one, your employer will help you with the process. You typically need a letter from your DSO and your offer of employment to apply at a Social Security Administration office. 3. Complete your employer's onboarding paperwork — this includes Form I-9 (employment eligibility verification), W-4, and any other required forms. Bring your passport, visa, I-20, and any other required documents.

Always verify current requirements with your DSO and employer before taking any steps.

Off-campus work is different

The accessibility of on-campus employment does not extend to off-campus jobs. F-1 students generally may not work off-campus during their first year of study and need specific authorisation (CPT, OPT, or severe economic hardship authorization) for any off-campus employment thereafter. These are separate processes with their own requirements — see the related guides below.

This guide covers on-campus employment only and is not immigration advice. Verify all current rules on uscis.gov and studyinthestates.dhs.gov.