International Student Employment

Employment Opportunities for F-1 International Students

Ranger College provides guidance and support for F-1 international students seeking employment while maintaining their student status. Whether you are interested in on-campus or off-campus opportunities, it is important to understand the eligibility requirements, work limitations, and application processes associated with each option.

On-campus employment offers students the ability to gain work experience while enrolled, with fewer restrictions and a more streamlined approval process. Off-campus employment, while more limited, may be available in specific circumstances such as severe economic hardship and requires authorization through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Explore the information below to learn about qualifications, work guidelines, and step-by-step application processes to ensure you remain compliant while pursuing employment opportunities.

 

On-Campus Employment

  • Must be a qualifying position that does not displace a US citizen
  • May work up to 20 hours per week
  • Must report requests/work to the Registrar
  • Pay is subject to payroll taxes

Application Process

  1. Supervisor must complete a statement concerning the nature of job and work hours
  2. Receive a letter from the Registrar certifying the that the job qualifies as on-campus employment and that student is in F-1 Status
  3. Take both documents to the Social Security office to receive a Social Security Number

 

Off-Campus Employment

  • Must be after student’s first academic year
  • Must be in good academic standing
  • Must be able to prove severe economic hardship
  • Must be able to prove working off-campus will not adversely affect their academic standing
  • Must be no available jobs on-campus
  • Approval is only good for one year
  • Authorization is dependent on a case-by-case approval from USCIS
  • May work up to 20 hours per week

Application Process

  1. Student submits proof of severe economic hardship and proof that working off-campus will not adversely affect their academics to the Registrar asking for permission to seek employment
  2. Upon approval, the Registrar will print an updated I-20 that shows “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status”
  3. Student must file Form I-765 within 30 days, along with the following documents:
    • Endorsed I-20
    • Supporting documents proving economic hardship
    • Supporting documents that prove working off-campus will not affect academics
    • Form I-94
    • Copy of visa or passport
    • Two identical color photographs (see I-765 instructions)
    • Payment of filing fee of $410
  4. If approved, student will receive a form I-766 “Employment Authorization Document” and letter
    notification of decision. If denied, student will receive a letter giving the reason(s) for denial

 

Applying online is easy!

Step by Step Instructions on How to Apply!