Working on a student visa in the USA: a complete guide

The United States is a premier destination for global education, and the opportunity to gain professional experience while you learn is a significant draw. Beyond the prestige of top American universities, working while studying allows you to offset student living costs in the USA, build a local network, and develop skills that stand out on a global CV. While the U.S. offers incredible prospects, the F-1 visa is subject to stricter guidelines than many other countries. If you hold a valid F-1 status, you are permitted to work under specific conditions. Here is everything you need to know to stay compliant while earning.

The U.S. government sets firm limits on work hours to ensure your primary focus remains on your studies. These limits are strictly enforced, and exceeding them can jeopardise your visa status.

During the semester

While classes are in session, you can work up to 20 hours per week. This is a cumulative limit, meaning if you have two on-campus jobs, the total hours combined cannot exceed 20. This 20-hour cap is a standard response to those asking, "Can we do part-time jobs while studying in the USA?" because it balances financial needs with academic requirements.

During semester breaks

During scheduled breaks, such as the summer vacation or winter holidays, you are allowed to work full-time (usually up to 40 hours per week). To qualify for this, you must intend to enroll full-time for the following semester. These breaks are the perfect time to gain more intensive experience and save for the upcoming term's expenses.

Your employment options in the USA are categorised by where the work takes place and how it relates to your degree.

• On-campus work: This includes roles at your university, such as working in the library, campus bookstore, cafeteria, or as a research assistant. These are the easiest roles to secure because they don't require additional USCIS approval.

• Off-campus work: You can work off-campus on an F-1 visa only if you have specific authorization for training or can prove "severe economic hardship" caused by unforeseen circumstances.

It is important to note that "gig economy" work, such as driving for ride-share apps or freelance delivery, is generally considered unauthorised off-campus employment for F-1 students and should be avoided to protect your visa status.

Work related to your degree

If you want work opportunities in the USA that relate to your degree, these are two pathways:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): This is for work that is integral to your curriculum, such as a required internship or practicum. It must be authorised by your DSO on your I-20 form before you start.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): This allows for 12 months of employment related to your major. While most students use this after graduation, you can apply for "Pre-completion OPT" to work off-campus while still in school.

While your student visa in the USA allows you to work, maintaining that status means avoiding these prohibited activities:

• You cannot work off-campus without explicit CPT or OPT authorisation on your I-20

• You cannot exceed the 20-hour weekly limit during the semester

• You cannot be self-employed or engage in freelance "side hustles" without specific legal clearance

• You cannot continue working after your program ends unless you have an approved OPT EAD (Employment Authorization Document) card

• You cannot start any job before the start date authorised by your DSO.

That said, international students enjoy the same basic workplace protections as American citizens. These rights ensure a safe and fair working environment:

• Minimum wage: You are entitled to at least the federal minimum wage ($7.25 per hour), though many states like California or New York have much higher local minimums

• Overtime pay: If you work over 40 hours during a break, you are typically entitled to "time-and-a-half" pay

• Protection from harassment: Federal law protects you from discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin

• Workplace safety: Your employer must provide a safe environment free of recognised hazards

If you feel your rights are being ignored, you can seek help from the U.S. Department of Labor or your university’s international student office.

International students can work in the U.S. while studying and earn an income, but that income is subject to U.S. taxes.

Before you start working, you must apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) to get paid. You'll need a job offer letter and a support letter from your DSO to apply at a Social Security Administration office.

Regardless of whether you owe money or are due a refund, you’re required to file a federal tax return every year (usually by April 15). Many schools provide specialised tax software (like Sprintax) for international students.

Ready to work while studying and navigating the exciting opportunities of an American education? IDP offers free counselling to help you find the right course and university in the US, ensuring it fits your career goals and budget. Our experts guide you through every hurdle, from understanding intake dates to sorting out your US student visa and finding the right fit for your ambitions.

If you need to prove your English proficiency, we can help with that too. As a co-owner of IELTS, IDP provides the resources you need to book your IELTS test with confidence. Reach out to us today to start your journey!