What are the rules for F-1 on-campus jobs?

F-1 students may take on-campus jobs under conditions. Study in the States, part of ICE, says you may not work more than 20 hours per week when school is in session, only students with an active SEVIS record can apply, and you must talk to your designated school official (DSO), who approves the work and provides a letter of approval.

This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules change and every case differs. Confirm with your DSO or a licensed immigration attorney before you work.

At a glance

• US federal rules as of 31 October 2026, from ICE Study in the States and USCIS.
• 20 hours per week maximum when school is in session.
• Your DSO must approve the job first.
• On campus work is not the same as CPT or OPT, which are off-campus training authorizations.
• Working without authorization can put your status at risk, so ask before you start.

What counts as an on-campus job?

According to Study in the States, on-campus work takes place on campus or at an off-campus location that is educationally affiliated with the school. Examples given include a university bookstore or cafeteria. If a job is at an off-campus location, ask your DSO whether it qualifies as educationally affiliated rather than assuming it does.

Who can apply?

Only F-1 students whose SEVIS status is active can apply. USCIS says F-1 students may accept on-campus employment during the first academic year, subject to certain conditions and restrictions. Your DSO is the person who knows how your school applies them.

What are the steps?

1. Find a job. Check your school's student employment listings and campus departments.
2. Talk to your DSO. The DSO approves the work and gives you a letter of approval. Study in the States says you can apply up to 30 days before classes start.
3. Get the employer letter. You will need it together with the DSO letter.
4. Apply for a Social Security number if needed. USCIS notes that, in general, only people with DHS permission to work can apply for one. Study in the States says you will need the DSO letter and a letter from your employer.
5. Complete employment paperwork with the employer and keep copies.

How is on-campus work different from CPT and OPT?

On-campus employment is a form of work available to students during their studies. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are off-campus training options. USCIS says off-campus work related to your field must be authorized before work starts, by the DSO and by USCIS where required, and that students may not work off campus during the first academic year. Read CPT vs OPT and the glossary entries for CPT and OPT.

What are the common mistakes?

• Starting work before the DSO approval and any required letters are in place.
• Assuming that a campus-adjacent employer is "on campus" without checking.
• Taking gig work, freelance jobs or tutoring for pay without asking whether it is permitted.
• Losing track of weekly hours when you hold more than one campus job.
• Using unofficial advice from friends or social media instead of the DSO.

What should you ask your DSO?

Bring a short list so one meeting settles it:

1. Does this specific employer count as on campus or educationally affiliated?
2. Is there a school limit on weekly hours in addition to the federal limit?
3. What documents do I need, and how long does your office take to issue the letter?
4. How do I track hours if I hold more than one job?
5. What changes during breaks, and what do I need to confirm in writing?

Write down the answers and keep the DSO letter with your immigration documents.

How does an on-campus job help later?

It builds references, shows reliability and gives resume lines before you apply for internships. See the wider options in part-time jobs for college students in the US.

Frequently asked questions

Can I work more than 20 hours on campus? The Study in the States page gives the 20-hour limit for when school is in session. Ask your DSO about breaks.

Do I need a Social Security number? Usually to be paid through payroll. Your DSO and employer can explain the process.

Can I work off campus in my first year? USCIS says no, in general.

Does this apply to J-1 or other visas? No. This page covers F-1 students only.

Who do I ask first? Your school's DSO. They hold your record.

By LiveRec Editorial. Read our editorial standards.