Work during studying in the USA

1 de janeiro de 2020

America is known for strict immigration rules, but international students with certain types of visas have the right to work here while studying. However, you should not rely on a large salary that will cover your expenses for training, accommodation, and meals. Therefore, every foreign student should be able to pay for their stay in the United States without receiving additional income. So, here is some information about working in the USA.

The ability to work while studying in America depends on the type of visa you are holding. As a foreign student, you will receive a visa of one of the following types: F-1, M-1 or J-1. F-1 and J-1 visa holders are allowed to work on campus for a maximum of 20 hours a week while studying or 40 hours a week during vacations. Students with M-1 visas are not allowed to work either on-campus or off-campus during their studies.

Students enrolled in study programs at American universities and colleges receive F-1 visas. F-1 visa holders are not allowed to work off-campus during their first year of study. After completing the first year, the student gets the opportunity to work a maximum of 20 hours a week while studying or 40 hours a week during the holidays. Students with F-1 visas who have financial problems, the US Department of Foreign Affairs and Immigration can issue a permit to work outside the campus during the first year. This permission is called “Work Permit,” and to get it you must prove that you could not find a job on campus, as well as pay the US $ 380. Students' applications are considered up to 90 days, and permission is issued for 1 year.

There are only two types of work on campus that students with F-1 visas can get. Students can work for commercial firms collaborating with the university (for example, in a university store or cafe), or work in an educational institution associated with your university. For example, a student can work as an assistant to the professor. If students don’t have much time to combine studying and working they can use sameday essay help or other online services that help with studying.

During the first school year, the U.S. Department of Foreign Affairs and Immigration can also issue a student with an F-1 visa for practical training (CPT or OPT) for up to 1 year. Moreover, the number of days off from work during this period should not exceed 90 days. After completing the first course at a US university, a student gets the opportunity to participate in CPT and OPT programs without special permission.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) programs involve work as part of the student’s curriculum and also allow any other type of employment approved by the institution. Students participating in the CPT Academic Program must gain practical experience in their specialization to meet the requirements of the curriculum. CPT members can also use their work experience to earn credits for the study program.

Students with F-1 visas can work part-time during the year in an area related to their academic specialization. You can participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program at any level of study, including undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can also apply before or after completing their curriculum.

Under this program, a student can work up to 20 hours a week during the school year and up to 40 hours a week during the holidays. If you graduate in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, you can increase your OPT membership duration from 1 year to 17 months.