6 F-1 students who have been enrolled at least one academic year may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is an off-campus work authorization that allows up to 12 months of employment in their field of study. Students may be eligible for another 12 months of practical training at a higher degree level. Post-completion OPT F-1 visa holders who are in status and plan to complete a degree program are allowed to apply for Post-completion Optional Practical Training. Students can apply as soon as 90-days before the completion of their program. It is recommended you allow plenty of time to contact International Student Services about the application process. Workshops are also provided for students each semester to guide in this process. Students in some majors in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) may be eligible for a 24-month extension of OPT. Pre-completion OPT Students who begin OPT during their degree program are limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Time spent working in pre-completion OPT counts against the 12 month practical training total. Students who participate in pre-completion OPT must submit a second application if wishing to pursue post-completion OPT.
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD A Social Security card is only necessary for students who have obtained employment either on campus or as part of their internship. You may apply for a Social Security number (SSN) after you have been offered a job. You will need to obtain a letter from the employer indicating the terms of employment and bring it to International Student Services. OIE will prepare a letter for you to take with the employer letter and your immigration documents to the regional Social Security office. You will be notified by email or WhatsApp when your letter is ready.
ECONOMIC HARDSHIP OFF-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT Students must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year and must prove to the satisfaction of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) that employment is necessary due to severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. This allows for off-campus work that does not need to be related to your field of study. An application will need to be submitted accompanied by extensive documentation of economic need.
